5 Can’t-Miss Fried Chicken Sandwiches in Portland, Maine

While the Portland, Maine food scene is bristling with many incredible restaurants, there are also some weak spots. Portland currently only has one truly devoted steakhouse. Not only that, since Big J's and Figgy's both permanently closed, where is the next best fried chicken restaurant in the city?

While it's difficult to find traditional platters of fried chicken, it's far less difficult to find a fried chicken sandwich on menus across the city. If you're in the mood for one, here are 5 of my favorites, from traditional to some that pack an additional layer of flavor.

Wilson County Barbecue

There's plenty of craveable stuff on the Wilson County Barbecue menu. Their BBQ platters and snack menu are filled with delicious bites. But their fried chicken sandwich should be on your list if it isn't already. It's a southern-style fry, topped with crazy good jalapeno mayo.

Po' Boys and Pickles

Consistently one of the top destinations for sandwiches in Portland, Po' Boys and Pickles menu features many items you won't find on another menu in the city. But their fried chicken cutlet po' boy remains a tried and true favorite. Topped with salty bacon, each bite makes you want to have another.

Pai Men Miyake

It would be easy to sleep on a place known for sushi and ramen as somewhere you need to go for a fried chicken sandwich. So keep sleeping and let the rest of us enjoy it if you'd like. Pai Men's chicken karaage is a Japanese-style fried chicken sandwich that is just one big mouthwatering flavor bomb.

Shay's

Still one of Portland's best kept secrets, Shay's Grill Pub is a cozy little spot that has remained a locals favorite through ownership changes. That's mostly because the food in the small restaurant remains as good as ever, including their two fried chicken sandwich offerings. Choose from a sweet and spicy or hot chicken sandwich and then count down the minutes until you can go back for another.

Crispy Gai

Since its opening, Crispy Gai has been one of the most popular restaurants in Portland. The reason? Who can resist Thai fried chicken. To grab a sandwich at Crispy Gai, you'll need to be craving one during the daytime hours. They've got a selection of different styles, all centered around their flavorful fried chicken.