Austin, Texas is known for its vibrant food scene, with a diverse range of cuisines available throughout the city.
One dish that is particularly popular among locals and visitors alike is BBQ chicken. Whether you prefer it spicy or sweet, smoky or tangy, Austin has plenty of options for you to choose from.
From food trucks to sit-down restaurants, there are numerous places in Austin that serve up delicious BBQ chicken. Some are hidden gems that only locals know about, while others have gained national recognition for their mouth-watering dishes.
Whether you're a BBQ connoisseur or just someone looking for a great meal, there is something for everyone in this city.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the best places to get BBQ chicken in Austin. We'll highlight the unique flavors and cooking styles that each restaurant or food truck brings to the table, and provide recommendations for what to order.
Whether you're in the mood for classic southern-style BBQ or something with a modern twist, we've got you covered.
So, grab a napkin and get ready to drool over some of the best BBQ chicken Austin has to offer.
1. Terry Black's Barbecue
Terry Black's Barbecue is a must-visit for anyone craving mouth-watering BBQ chicken. The cafeteria-style pit is not fancy, but the food and vibe are excellent.
The brisket is amazing, and the sweet creamy corn side dish is a must-try. The sausage and beans are great as well.
The beef ribs are so tender that they fall off the bone, and the Mac and cheese side dish is incredibly delicious. The staff is friendly and welcoming.
However, there might be a long queue, but it's worth the wait for the top-notch food. If you're in the mood for some delicious BBQ chicken, Terry Black's Barbecue is definitely worth a visit.
Also Featured In
- Brisket Bliss: 20 Smokin’ Hot Spots in Austin for the Best BBQ
- Get Your Ribs Fix: 13 Must-Try Spots for Spare Ribs in Austin
- Get Your Grill On: Austin’s 12 Must-Try BBQ Restaurants
- Spudtacular! Exploring Austin’s Top 10 Potato Salad Hot Spots
- Gobble up the 12 Best Turkey Sandwiches in Austin!
2. Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ
Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ is a family-owned food truck that serves mesquite-smoked BBQ with a Tex Mex twist.
This permanent trailer is a popular spot in South Austin and draws large crowds. The brisket and sausage are the standout dishes, and the pulled chicken is a must-try.
The house-made tortillas are soft and pillowy, adding a perfect contrast to the barbecued meat. The service is quick and friendly, and there is ample seating on the front patio.
Although the prices are on the higher side, the food is well worth it. Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ is a great place to satisfy your cravings for delicious BBQ.
Also Featured In
- Pig Out in Austin: 13 Spots for Mouth-Watering Pulled Pork!
- Brisket Bliss: 20 Smokin’ Hot Spots in Austin for the Best BBQ
- Get Your Grill On: Austin’s 12 Must-Try BBQ Restaurants
- Get Your Hands Dirty: Austin’s 8 Finger-Lickin’ BBQ Rib Joints!
3. Brown's BBQ
Brown's BBQ is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious barbecue chicken. The friendly staff and quick service make for a great dining experience.
The brisket and sausage are also highly recommended, and the sides are out of this world.
Don't miss out on the Mac n' cheese and green beans. The barbecue trailer parked next to Corner Bar offers boxed comfort food and is perfect for a quick bite on the go.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for great Texas BBQ.
Also Featured In
- Brisket Bliss: 20 Smokin’ Hot Spots in Austin for the Best BBQ
- Get Your Ribs Fix: 13 Must-Try Spots for Spare Ribs in Austin
- Get Your Grill On: Austin’s 12 Must-Try BBQ Restaurants
- Bananarama: Top 12 Spots for Puddin’ Enjoyment in Austin!
4. Briscuits
4204 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78704 (Google Maps)
If you're looking for some of the best BBQ chicken in town, look no further than Briscuits. The meat is top-notch, juicy, and flavorful.
But what really sets this place apart is their biscuits – perfectly flaky with just the right amount of crunch.
The homemade jams and jellies are also a must-try. And if you're in the mood for breakfast, their breakfast sandwiches and pimento cheese grits are a great way to start the day.
Don't miss out on this unique and delicious Austin food producer.
Also Featured In
- Brisket Bliss: 20 Smokin’ Hot Spots in Austin for the Best BBQ
- Flaky, Buttery Bliss: 17 Must-Try Biscuit Spots in Austin!
5. J. Leonardi's Barbeque
1124 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702 (Google Maps)
J. Leonardi's Barbeque is a family-owned and operated food truck that serves up some of the best BBQ chicken in town.
The chicken is juicy and tender, with a perfect smoky flavor that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
The sides are also top-notch, with options like potato salad and jalapeno corn that perfectly complement the main course.
The service is friendly and efficient, making for a pleasant dining experience. If you're in the mood for some delicious BBQ chicken, J. Leonardi's Barbeque is definitely worth a try.
Also Featured In
- Pig Out in Austin: 13 Spots for Mouth-Watering Pulled Pork!
- Brisket Bliss: 20 Smokin’ Hot Spots in Austin for the Best BBQ
- Spud-tastic! Discover Austin’s 15 Must-Try Baked Potato Spots
6. Pok-E-Jo's
Pok-E-Jo's is a local BBQ chain that specializes in serving up delicious smoked meats and classic sides.
Their BBQ chicken is a must-try, with tender and juicy meat that's full of flavor.
The sides are equally impressive, with favorites like mac and cheese and jalapeno cornbread that are sure to satisfy.
The staff is friendly and helpful, making for a pleasant dining experience. If you're in the mood for some classic Texas BBQ, Pok-E-Jo's is definitely worth checking out.
Also Featured In
- Get Your Hands Dirty: Austin’s 8 Finger-Lickin’ BBQ Rib Joints!
7. bb.q Chicken Highland Village
If you're looking for some great Korean-style fried chicken, bb.q Chicken Highland Village is the place to be.
Their crispy chicken is packed with flavor and comes in a variety of sauces, including honey garlic and secret sauce.
The portions are generous, and the staff is friendly and attentive. While the service can be a bit slow during peak hours, the food is definitely worth the wait.
This is a great spot to grab some wings and watch the game on one of their many TVs.
Also Featured In
- Seoul Searching: 16 Must-Try Korean Restaurants in Austin
- Finger-Licking Good: 13 Must-Try Fried Chicken Spots in Austin!
8. First Chinese BBQ
First Chinese BBQ is a must-visit for those craving delicious BBQ chicken. Their expansive menu offers a variety of authentic Chinese dishes, but the BBQ chicken steals the show.
Cooked to perfection, the chicken is well-seasoned and tender with no overcooked or dry bites.
The service is attentive and lively, making for a comfortable dining experience.
Prices are affordable, making it an excellent option for a great meal without breaking the bank. Don't miss out on First Chinese BBQ's fantastic BBQ chicken.
Also Featured In
- Quack into Austin’s Best: 4 Must-Try Peking Duck Spots!
- Fry-Yay! 14 Spots in Austin for the Best Fried Rice
- 17 Sizzling Chinese Restos to Conquer Your Cravings in Austin!
- Chow Down: Austin’s Insanely Cheap Chinese Cuisine Scene
9. True Texas BBQ
True Texas BBQ is a surprisingly great place for BBQ chicken. The quality of the food is excellent and the prices are reasonable.
The ambience is clean and friendly, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. While the brisket was a little dry, the turkey slices were good and the potato salad was great.
The coleslaw was fresh and the beans were really good. The meats are what you would expect from a really good BBQ joint.
The service is friendly and the staff is knowledgeable. If you're looking for a great BBQ chicken place, True Texas BBQ is definitely worth checking out.
Also Featured In
- Get Your Grill On: Austin’s 6 Best BBQ Caterers!
10. Vic's Bar-B-Que
Vic's Bar-B-Que is a no-frills joint that serves up some seriously tasty BBQ chicken. The meat is cooked to perfection and has a great smoky flavor.
The sides are also worth mentioning, especially the potato salad and green beans.
The restaurant itself is nothing fancy, but the friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere make for a great dining experience.
If you're looking for some delicious BBQ chicken in a casual setting, Vic's Bar-B-Que is definitely worth a visit.
Also Featured In
- Get Your BBQ Fix: 12 Finger-Lickin’ Spots for Ribs in Austin!
- Get Your Hands Dirty: Austin’s 8 Finger-Lickin’ BBQ Rib Joints!
11. Donn's Barbeque & Catering
Donn's Barbeque & Catering is a laid-back eatery that serves up some tasty smoked meats. Although it may not be on the top of any BBQ lists, it fills a niche for those looking for simple, filling, and efficient food.
The menu offers a variety of options, including tacos, burgers, and BBQ plates, all at a good value.
The portions are generous, and the food is hot and tasty. Donn's has a relaxed atmosphere, with a walk-up window and indoor dining.
The staff is usually easy-going and friendly, making for a pleasant dining experience. Donn's Barbeque & Catering is a great option for those looking for good BBQ without all the frills.
Also Featured In
- Get Your Grill On: Austin’s 6 Best BBQ Caterers!
- Spud-tastic! Discover Austin’s 15 Must-Try Baked Potato Spots
12. Iron Works Barbecue
Iron Works Barbecue is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Texan BBQ. The restaurant has a charming rustic feel and is located in a historic building.
The signature beef ribs are a must-try, but the BBQ chicken is equally delicious and worth a taste. The staff is friendly and helpful, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.
The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous, so visitors will leave feeling satisfied.
Don't forget to try the specialty sauces, which add a unique twist to the classic BBQ flavors. All in all, Iron Works Barbecue is a great spot for anyone looking for a true taste of Texas.
Also Featured In
- Get Your Hands Dirty: Austin’s 8 Finger-Lickin’ BBQ Rib Joints!
13. Bill Miller Bar-B-Q
Bill Miller Bar-B-Q is a Texas-based BBQ chain that serves up pit-smoked meats, fried chicken, breakfast, and baked goods.
The food is consistently good, and the service is fast and friendly. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
The restaurant is clean and well-organized, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
Whether you're in the mood for chicken, brisket, or sausage, Bill Miller Bar-B-Q has got you covered.
14. Hoover's Cooking
Hoover's Cooking is a Southern kitchen that serves up delicious BBQ chicken.
The chicken is tender and juicy, with a smoky flavor that is sure to satisfy any BBQ lover.
The sides are also worth mentioning, with the butterbeans being a standout. The atmosphere is cozy and the service is friendly.
If you're in the mood for some good BBQ chicken, Hoover's Cooking is definitely worth a visit.
Also Featured In
- Y’all Won’t Believe These 16 Southern Food Spots in Austin!
- Finger Lickin’ Good: Austin’s Top 10 Chicken Finger Joints
