13 North Carolina Chicken Sandwich Spots Blowing Up On TikTok
Long known for taking fried chicken seriously, North Carolina has recently found itself at the center of a TikTok-fueled sandwich showdown. As videos rack up views from Charlotte to Wilmington, local kitchens are cranking out sandwiches that are impossibly crispy, juicy to the core, and made for the camera.
Some bring the fire with Nashville-style heat, others lean into sweet, honey-drizzled perfection, but all of them have food lovers hitting record before taking a bite. With millions of views and lines stretching down the block, these thirteen spots are redefining the state’s chicken sandwich obsession.
1. PoppyCox
Walking into this Charlotte favorite feels like stepping into a retro diner with a modern twist, and the chicken sandwiches here are absolute showstoppers. PoppyCox has mastered the art of the perfectly fried bird, with a golden crust that shatters on first bite and juicy meat that stays tender all the way through.
You’ll find them at 1700 Camden Road, Suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28203, tucked in a lively neighborhood that’s become a foodie destination.
TikTok creators can’t stop filming the moment they unwrap these beauties, and it’s easy to see why. The breading is seasoned just right, with a hint of spice that doesn’t overwhelm but definitely keeps you coming back for more.
They offer a variety of heat levels, so whether you’re a spice novice or a heat-seeker, there’s a sandwich calling your name.
The vibe here is casual and welcoming, perfect for grabbing lunch with friends or a quick solo bite. Pair your sandwich with their crispy fries, and you’ve got yourself a meal worth posting about.
Trust me, one visit and you’ll understand why this spot keeps trending.
2. Horace’s Hot Fried Chicken
If you’re hunting for Nashville-style heat with a Charlotte soul, Horace’s is where your search ends. This spot doesn’t mess around when it comes to spice levels, and their hot chicken sandwiches have become legendary on TikTok for making even the bravest eaters sweat a little.
Located at 4200 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28209, Horace’s brings authenticity and flavor in every single bite.
The chicken is brined, battered, and fried to crispy perfection before being slathered in their signature cayenne-laced oil. It’s messy, it’s fiery, and it’s absolutely worth every napkin you’ll go through.
The sandwich comes topped with tangy pickles and a creamy sauce that offers just enough relief from the heat to keep you going.
What really sets Horace’s apart is the balance—they know how to deliver serious spice without sacrificing flavor. Each bite is complex, with layers of seasoning that develop as you eat.
The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, making it a great spot to challenge your friends to a heat test. Just be ready to film the aftermath, because your face will tell the whole story.
3. Dave’s Hot Chicken
Originally a Los Angeles parking lot sensation, Dave’s Hot Chicken has taken Charlotte by storm, and TikTok is absolutely obsessed. The hype is real, and once you taste their chicken slider or full-size sandwich, you’ll get why people wait in line for this stuff.
You can find them at 8621 JM Keynes Drive, Suite 126, Charlotte, NC 28262, and the energy inside is always buzzing.
Dave’s offers seven spice levels, from “No Spice” to the infamous “Reaper,” which requires a signed waiver. Yes, you read that right—a waiver.
The chicken itself is tender and juicy, with a crunchy coating that holds up even when drenched in their fiery sauces. Each sandwich is topped with pickles, Dave’s sauce, and a soft bun that somehow manages to contain all that flavor.
What makes Dave’s a TikTok magnet is the challenge factor—watching someone tackle the Reaper level is pure entertainment. But even if you stick to the milder options, you’re getting top-tier fried chicken.
The vibe is fast-casual, perfect for a quick bite that packs a serious punch. Come hungry, come brave, and definitely come ready to post about it.
4. Beasley’s Chicken + Honey
Raleigh’s downtown dining scene wouldn’t be complete without Beasley’s Chicken + Honey, a beloved spot that’s been racking up TikTok views for its Southern charm and seriously delicious chicken sandwiches. Chef Ashley Christensen’s vision shines through here, with every dish celebrating classic Southern flavors done exceptionally well.
You’ll find this gem at 237 S Wilmington Street, Raleigh, NC 27601, right in the heart of the city.
The fried chicken sandwich here is a study in balance—crispy, golden skin meets juicy, perfectly seasoned meat, all topped with a drizzle of local honey that adds a touch of sweetness. The bun is soft and buttery, and the pickles provide just the right amount of tang to cut through the richness.
It’s comfort food elevated, and every bite feels like a warm hug.
Beasley’s has a cozy, rustic vibe that makes you want to settle in and savor your meal. The attention to detail is evident in everything from the sourcing of ingredients to the presentation.
TikTok loves this place for its photogenic plates and genuine hospitality. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is a must-visit.
5. Iyla’s Southern Kitchen
Soul food meets TikTok fame at Iyla’s Southern Kitchen, where the chicken sandwiches are as heartfelt as they are delicious. This Raleigh favorite has built a loyal following by serving up authentic Southern cooking with a side of genuine hospitality.
Located at 3010 Highwoods Boulevard, Suite 100, Raleigh, NC 27604, Iyla’s is a spot where tradition and flavor take center stage.
Their fried chicken sandwich is a beautiful thing—crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, with a seasoning blend that’s been perfected over time. The sandwich comes dressed simply, letting the quality of the chicken shine through, but you can add your choice of toppings to customize it to your liking.
Each bite is satisfying in a way that only real soul food can deliver.
What sets Iyla’s apart is the love that goes into every plate. You can taste the care and attention in each dish, and that authenticity resonates with TikTok audiences looking for real food made by real people.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making you feel like family from the moment you walk in. This is comfort food at its finest, and it’s no wonder people keep coming back.
6. Chicken Bee
Buzzing with flavor and TikTok attention, Chicken Bee in Raleigh has quickly become a go-to spot for anyone craving a seriously good chicken sandwich. This place keeps things simple but executes every element perfectly, from the crispy coating to the soft, pillowy bun.
You can find them at 3601 Haworth Drive, Raleigh, NC 27609, where the line often stretches out the door—proof that word has spread.
Chicken Bee’s signature sandwich features a thick, juicy chicken breast that’s been marinated, breaded, and fried until golden and crunchy. The seasoning is spot-on, with a subtle kick that builds as you eat.
They offer a variety of sauces to choose from, and each one adds a different dimension to the sandwich, so feel free to experiment.
The vibe here is casual and unpretentious, with a focus on quality over flash. TikTok creators love filming the satisfying crunch of that first bite, and the slow-motion shots of the juice dripping down are practically guaranteed views.
Whether you’re a Raleigh local or just passing through, Chicken Bee deserves a spot on your must-try list. It’s straightforward, delicious, and exactly what a chicken sandwich should be.
7. Pantry Fried Chicken
Greensboro’s Pantry Fried Chicken has been quietly perfecting the art of fried chicken for years, but TikTok recently discovered what locals have known all along—this place is legit. The chicken sandwiches here are old-school in the best way, with a no-frills approach that lets the quality speak for itself.
Located at 3605 Battleground Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27410, Pantry is a neighborhood staple with a growing online fanbase.
Their sandwich features a generously sized piece of fried chicken that’s seasoned with a classic blend of spices and fried until the crust is shatteringly crisp. The bun is toasted just enough to add a bit of texture, and the toppings are minimal—usually just pickles and mayo—which keeps the focus squarely on the chicken.
It’s simple, satisfying, and exactly what you want when you’re craving real fried chicken.
The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with a family-friendly vibe that makes everyone feel at home. TikTok loves Pantry for its authenticity and the fact that they’ve been doing this long before it was trendy.
If you’re in Greensboro and want a chicken sandwich that’s rooted in tradition, this is your spot.
8. HCK Hot Chicken
Greenville’s HCK Hot Chicken is bringing Nashville heat to Eastern North Carolina, and TikTok is here for every spicy second of it. This spot specializes in hot chicken done right, with multiple heat levels that range from mild to “are you sure about this?” Located at 1515 SW Greenville Boulevard, Greenville, NC 27834, HCK has become a destination for spice lovers and TikTok challengers alike.
The chicken sandwich here is a thing of beauty—crispy, juicy, and coated in a fiery cayenne-based paste that delivers both heat and flavor. The sandwich is topped with pickles and a cooling sauce that provides just enough relief to keep you going.
Each bite is an adventure, and the heat builds gradually, so even if you think you can handle it, you might be in for a surprise.
What makes HCK a TikTok favorite is the reactions—people love filming themselves and their friends taking on the higher heat levels. But even if you’re not into extreme spice, the milder options are packed with flavor and totally worth the visit.
The vibe is casual and fun, with a staff that knows exactly what they’re doing. Come ready to sweat a little and leave with a story.
9. BB’s Crispy Chicken
Cary’s BB’s Crispy Chicken has cracked the code on the perfect crunch, and TikTok can’t get enough of the ASMR-worthy sound their sandwiches make. This spot focuses on one thing—crispy, flavorful fried chicken—and they’ve absolutely nailed it.
You’ll find them at 1105 Walnut Street, Suite 106, Cary, NC 27511, where the aroma of fresh fried chicken greets you the moment you walk in.
The sandwich features a thick chicken breast that’s been double-battered and fried until the coating is impossibly crispy. The seasoning is savory and well-balanced, with just a hint of spice to keep things interesting.
BB’s offers several sauce options, and each one complements the chicken beautifully without overpowering it. The bun is soft and sturdy, holding everything together through that first satisfying bite.
BB’s has a modern, clean vibe that’s perfect for snapping photos and videos. TikTok creators love the visual and auditory experience of biting into one of these sandwiches—the crunch is real, and it translates beautifully on camera.
Whether you’re a Cary resident or just passing through the Triangle, BB’s is a must-stop for chicken sandwich enthusiasts.
10. Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack
Nestled in the mountains, Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack brings serious heat and flavor to Asheville’s eclectic food scene. This spot has become a TikTok sensation for its bold approach to Nashville-style hot chicken and the beautiful mountain backdrop that makes every food photo pop.
Located at 1455 Patton Avenue, Asheville, NC 28806, Rocky’s is where locals and tourists alike come to test their spice tolerance.
The chicken sandwich here is a masterpiece of heat and flavor, with a crispy coating that’s been generously brushed with spicy oil. Rocky’s offers several heat levels, and even the medium packs a punch that’ll make you reach for your drink.
The sandwich is topped with crunchy pickles and a house-made sauce that adds a creamy contrast to the heat. It’s messy, it’s intense, and it’s absolutely delicious.
Rocky’s has a laid-back, funky vibe that fits perfectly with Asheville’s quirky personality. TikTok loves this place for the challenge videos and the stunning mountain views you can capture from the patio.
Whether you’re a heat-seeker or just looking for a memorable meal, Rocky’s delivers an experience you won’t forget.
11. Timmy’s Hot Chicken
Winston-Salem’s answer to the hot chicken craze, Timmy’s Hot Chicken has been blowing up on TikTok for its commitment to authentic Nashville-style flavors and generous portions. This spot doesn’t hold back on the heat, and the chicken sandwiches here are designed for those who like their food with a kick.
You’ll find Timmy’s at 3653 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27106, where the smell of fried chicken draws you in from the parking lot.
The sandwich features a perfectly fried chicken breast that’s been coated in Timmy’s signature spice blend, which ranges from mild to “why did I do this?” The chicken stays juicy inside while the outside delivers that satisfying crunch. Topped with pickles and served on a soft bun, it’s a simple but effective combination that lets the chicken be the star.
Timmy’s has a casual, no-nonsense atmosphere that’s all about the food. TikTok creators love filming their heat level challenges here, and the reactions are always entertaining.
The staff is friendly and knows their way around spice, so don’t be shy about asking for recommendations. If you’re in Winston-Salem and craving hot chicken, Timmy’s is where you need to be.
12. Slappy’s Chicken
With a name that makes you smile and chicken sandwiches that make you come back for more, Slappy’s Chicken in Winston-Salem has earned its place on the TikTok map. This spot serves up Southern-style fried chicken with personality, and the sandwiches here are as fun as they are tasty.
Located at 2425 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem, NC 27103, Slappy’s has become a local favorite with a growing social media following.
Their chicken sandwich is generously portioned, with a thick, juicy breast that’s been marinated, breaded, and fried until golden. The seasoning has a subtle Southern flair, with hints of paprika and garlic that add depth without overwhelming.
Slappy’s offers a variety of toppings and sauces, so you can customize your sandwich to match your mood. The bun is soft and lightly toasted, providing the perfect vessel for all that crispy goodness.
The atmosphere at Slappy’s is upbeat and welcoming, with a playful energy that makes dining here a fun experience. TikTok loves the creative sandwich combinations and the generous portions that look amazing on camera.
Whether you’re grabbing lunch with friends or treating yourself to a solo feast, Slappy’s delivers flavor and fun in equal measure.
13. Rooster & The Crow
Down by the coast, Wilmington’s Rooster & The Crow is serving up chicken sandwiches that have coastal foodies and TikTok creators alike completely hooked. This spot combines Southern tradition with creative twists, resulting in sandwiches that are both familiar and exciting.
Located at 1700 Pavilion Place, Wilmington, NC 28403, Rooster & The Crow has become a must-visit destination in the Port City’s thriving food scene.
The chicken sandwich here is a beautiful balance of textures and flavors, with a perfectly fried breast that’s crispy outside and juicy inside. What sets Rooster & The Crow apart is their attention to detail—from the house-made pickles to the artisan buns to the creative sauce combinations.
Each element is thoughtfully chosen to create a sandwich that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
The restaurant has a modern coastal vibe that’s relaxed but polished, making it perfect for everything from a casual lunch to a celebratory dinner. TikTok loves this place for its photogenic plates and the way the coastal setting adds to the overall experience.
If you’re in Wilmington, whether visiting the beaches or exploring downtown, make time for Rooster & The Crow—your taste buds will thank you.