Chica's Chicken

This humble corner in the Junction is a faithful tribute to "hot chicken," a fiery, eye-watering style popularized in the American South. Chickens are dry brined for two days and seasoned with a dark, brooding mix of spices. Diners in a hurry can grab a boneless sandwich and be on their way, but true fans know that excellence takes time and are content to wait the full half hour as bone-in birds are fried to order. Medium heat is an approachable entry into this genre, but daredevils can swing for spicier tiers turbocharged with ghost peppers. To cool off from the spice, grab an order of coleslaw. An order of deep-fried pickles won’t win you any points with your doctor, but they’re a solid starter while you wait in the bare dining room that booms with rap music.