Irresistible Lee’s Famous Chicken Recipe

Fried chicken is a big deal in America, and Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken is a name that stands out. Since 1966, this chain has been serving crispy, juicy, honey-dipped chicken that keeps people coming back for more. With its Southern roots and simple, tasty menu, Lee’s is a go-to for families, foodies, and anyone craving comfort food. In this article, we’ll dive into what makes Lee’s special, answer common questions about their food, and even share how you can make their famous chicken at home. Let’s get started!

What is Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken?

Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken is a fast-food chain known for its hand-breaded, honey-dipped fried chicken, homestyle sides, and buttery biscuits. It all began in 1966 in Lima, Ohio, when Lee Cummings, the nephew of KFC’s founder Colonel Harland Sanders, started his own restaurant called Harold’s Take-Home. Cummings created a unique recipe that used fresh chicken, a special spice mix, and a touch of honey for sweetness. The chicken is pressure-fried to lock in flavor, giving it a crispy outside and tender inside.

Today, Lee’s has 142 locations across 13 states, mostly in the Midwest and South, plus a few in Canada and Jordan. What sets Lee’s apart is its focus on freshness—chicken is never frozen and is breaded by hand at each restaurant. The honey dip adds a sweet twist that makes every bite delicious. Lee’s also offers unique items like chicken livers and gizzards, which are hard to find elsewhere.

Is Lee’s Chicken Better Than KFC?

Since Lee Cummings helped build KFC before starting Lee’s, it’s natural to compare the two. Both serve fried chicken, but they’re different in flavor and style. Lee’s fans say their chicken is crunchier, juicier, and less greasy than KFC’s. The honey dip gives Lee’s a sweet-salty taste that KFC doesn’t have. Lee’s also uses a lighter breading, which feels less heavy compared to KFC’s Original Recipe.

Price is another factor. A 3-piece meal at Lee’s costs about $6.39, while a 2-piece meal at KFC might be $8 or more. Lee’s has unique offerings like gizzards and spicy tenders, which KFC doesn’t. However, KFC has way more locations (about 4,000 in the U.S. compared to Lee’s 142), so it’s easier to find. KFC’s seasoning is iconic, and some prefer its bold, savory flavor. It comes down to taste—Lee’s is great for a sweeter, crispier bite, while KFC is a classic choice.

Does Lee’s Chicken Have Spicy Tenders?

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Yes, Lee’s offers Spicy Jumbo Dippers, which are boneless chicken tenders with a spicy breading. These tenders have a mild to medium heat, perfect for most people but maybe not spicy enough for those who love a real kick. They’re hand-breaded, juicy, and come with sauces like ranch or honey mustard to balance the flavor. If you want more spice, Lee’s Crispy + Spicy chicken pieces are another option with a bolder heat level. Customers love the tenders for their crunch and tenderness, making them great for meals or snacks.

What Sides Does Lee’s Chicken Have?

Lee’s is famous for its homestyle sides, which feel like they’re straight from a Southern kitchen. Here’s what you can get:

• Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: Smooth potatoes with thick, savory gravy.
• Coleslaw: Fresh, tangy, and often called better than KFC’s.
• Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy and cheesy, a kid favorite.
• Green Beans: Soft and seasoned, a lighter choice.
• Potato Wedges: Crispy, spiced, and super popular.
• Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky, full of flavor.
• Fried Okra: Crunchy and Southern-style.
• Fried Pickles: Breaded pickle spears, though some say they’re a bit oily.
• Jalapeño Poppers: Cheesy with a mild spice.

You can order sides with meals or on their own. Some locations even have a buffet where you can pile your plate high. The potato wedges and coleslaw get the most love, but quality can vary slightly by restaurant.

How Much Is a Meal at Lee’s Chicken?

Lee’s is budget-friendly, making it a great pick for families. Prices depend on the location, but here’s a rough idea:

• Two-Piece Combo (leg or thigh, one side, biscuit, drink): ~$6.39
• Three Jumbo Breast Strips Combo (three strips, one side, biscuit, drink): ~$7.49
• 8-Piece Family Meal (3 large sides, 6 biscuits): ~$18.99
• 12-Piece Family Meal (3 sides, 6 biscuits): ~$24.99
• 16-Piece Family Meal: ~$29.99
• 20-Piece Family Meal: ~$34.99

Smaller items, like a chicken pot pie or a single breast combo, cost $3.99 to $5.99. Lee’s often has lunch specials, like a 3-piece strip meal for $3.99, and some locations offer senior discounts. Compared to KFC, Lee’s is usually a bit cheaper, which adds to its appeal.

Where Is the Closest Lee’s Famous Recipe?

Lee’s has 142 restaurants in states like Ohio, Kentucky, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Alabama, Florida, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Wisconsin, and a few international spots. To find the nearest one, go to leesfamousrecipe.com and use the “Find a Lee’s” tool with your zip code or city. Popular spots include:

• Springfield, OH: 410 W Columbia St, known for spicy wings and fast service.
• Louisville, KY: 9813 3rd Street Rd, loved for its coleslaw.
• New Philadelphia, OH: 119 Commercial Ave SW, great for tender meals.

If there’s no Lee’s nearby, check their website for catering options or new openings, as they sometimes expand.

Can You Order Lee’s Chicken Online?

Yes, you can order Lee’s chicken online through their website (leesfamousrecipe.com) or apps like Grubhub, DoorDash, or Tripadvisor, depending on the location. The Lee’s Rewards app is a handy way to order, save your favorite meals, and earn points (1 point per $1 spent, plus a free drink when you sign up). You can choose pickup, delivery, or catering for events. Some customers mention delivery mix-ups, so double-check your order before confirming.

Who Owns Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken?

Lee Cummings and Harold Omer started Lee’s in 1966. In 1981, Cummings sold it to Shoney’s Restaurants. In 1995, RTM Restaurant Group took over, and in 2021, LFR Chicken, LLC, backed by Artemis Lane Partners, bought the chain. Based in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Lee’s is mostly made up of franchise locations, each run by local owners who keep the brand’s quality high.

What Oil Does Lee’s Chicken Use?

Lee’s doesn’t share the exact oil they use, but fast-food chains like Lee’s often use vegetable oils like canola or soybean because they handle high heat well and don’t overpower the chicken’s flavor. If you’re curious about specifics, you can ask at a local Lee’s or contact their team through leesfamousrecipe.com. For a healthier option, Lee’s offers oven-roasted chicken that uses less oil.

How to Make Lee’s Chicken at Home?

Want to enjoy Lee’s famous chicken without leaving home? While the exact recipe is a secret, this version gets close to the crispy, honey-dipped goodness. It’s easy to follow and uses simple ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 4 lbs chicken (breasts, thighs, drumsticks)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional for extra flavor)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder -1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp white pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp honey
• Vegetable oil for frying

Equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Deep fryer or large skillet
• Wire rack
• Thermometer

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Mix buttermilk and hot sauce in a bowl. Add chicken, making sure it’s fully covered. Refrigerate for 4–8 hours to make it tender.
2. Make the Coating: In a large bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, white pepper, salt, thyme, and oregano.
3. Add Honey: Warm the honey slightly so it’s easy to pour. Brush or drizzle it lightly over the chicken after taking it out of the buttermilk.
4. Coat the Chicken: Take chicken from the buttermilk, letting extra drip off. Roll each piece in the flour mix, pressing so it sticks. For extra crunch, dip back in buttermilk and coat again.
5. Let It Rest: Place coated chicken on a wire rack for 10 minutes to set the breading.
6. Fry the Chicken: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a fryer or skillet. Fry chicken in small batches for 12–15 minutes, until golden and the inside reaches 165°F (74°C). Don’t crowd the pan.
7. Drain and Serve: Place fried chicken on a wire rack to drain oil. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Serving Ideas:

Serve with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits for a true Lee’s experience. Add sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue for dipping. A side salad can balance the meal.

Nutrition (Approximate per Serving, 1 piece):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 15g
• Fat: 18g

Conclusion

Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken is a Southern gem that brings crispy, flavorful fried chicken to the table. Its honey-dipped recipe, affordable prices, and cozy sides make it a standout, whether you’re comparing it to KFC or enjoying it on its own. With online ordering, a rewards app, and a recipe you can try at home, Lee’s is easy to love. Visit leesfamousrecipe.com to find a location, order a meal, or plan your next family gathering with their catering options. Once you try Lee’s, you’ll see why it’s a favorite for so many!

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