Ep 28. Playin' Chicken

Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives season 28 takes viewers on a culinary adventure across America, showcasing some of the best and most innovative eateries in the country. Episode 28, called "Playin' Chicken," is no different as host Guy Fieri explores some of the best chicken dishes America has to offer.

First up is a restaurant in Los Angeles called Dave's Hot Chicken. The restaurant is known for its Nashville-style hot chicken, which comes in different spice levels ranging from mild to the incredibly hot "reaper" level. Fieri meets the owners, Dave and Megan, who walk viewers through the preparation of their signature dish. They brine the chicken in buttermilk before coating it in a special blend of spices and frying it to perfection. Fieri then gets to taste the chicken and is blown away by the flavors and textures. He remarks that the chicken has a perfect combination of crunch and juiciness, and the spice level is just right.

Next, Fieri travels to New Orleans to visit a restaurant called Coop's Place. The restaurant has been around since 1983 and is known for its Cajun-style fried chicken. Fieri meets with the head chef, who gives him a lesson on the proper way to season chicken for frying. The chef then prepares a batch of chicken and takes Fieri through the steps of breading and frying. Fieri gets to taste the chicken and is incredibly impressed with the depth of flavor. He notes that the chicken has a perfect balance of spice and seasoning.

From there, Fieri heads to Lincoln, Nebraska, to visit a restaurant called Leadbelly. The restaurant is known for its eclectic menu, but Fieri is specifically interested in trying their Korean fried chicken. The owner, Joel, walks Fieri through the preparation of the dish, which involves a double-frying process. The chicken is cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Fieri notes that the sauce is the perfect blend of sweet and savory.

In Chicago, Fieri visits a restaurant called BJ's Market & Bakery. The restaurant specializes in Southern-style cooking, and Fieri is eager to try their fried chicken. The owner, B.J., walks Fieri through the preparation process, which involves a secret blend of spices and a special flour mixture. The chicken is fried to a beautiful golden brown and served alongside an array of sides, including cornbread and macaroni and cheese. Fieri is blown away by the flavor and texture of the chicken, and notes that the sides are just as delicious.

Finally, Fieri heads to Miami to visit a restaurant called Kush. The restaurant is known for its craft beers and its unique take on comfort food. Fieri is interested in trying their Korean fried chicken sandwich. The sandwich involves a double-fried chicken breast, which is then topped with a spicy Korean sauce, pickles, and coleslaw. Fieri remarks that the sandwich is a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, and notes that the chicken is incredibly juicy.

Overall, "Playin' Chicken" is an episode that chicken lovers won't want to miss. Fieri takes viewers on a culinary journey across America, showcasing some of the best fried chicken in the country. From Nashville-style hot chicken to Cajun fried chicken and everything in between, this episode has something for everyone.