What Is on Lee’s Chicken Menu?

The Ultimate Insider Guide to the Lee’s Chicken Menu

Have you ever had one of those days where you just crave comfort food?

I’m talking about the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, with crispy edges and a side of nostalgia. For me, that place is Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken. If you haven't been lately, or if you're a first-timer wondering what all the hype is about, you’ve come to the right place.

Lee’s isn't just another fast-food joint. It has this cool back-story because the founder, Lee Cummings, was actually the nephew of Colonel Sanders. He started his own thing back in 1966 because he wanted to do chicken a little differently: less pressure-cooked and more hand-breaded and honey-dipped. Honestly, you can taste that history in every bite.

So, let's pull up a chair and go through the menu together. I’ve spent way too much time (and money) figuring out the best combos, so consider this your ultimate guide.

See also: How to Make Thomas Keller’s Butternut Squash Soup at Home

The star of the show

When you walk into a Lee’s, the first thing you have to decide is your chicken style. They have two main "vibes" when it comes to the bone-in chicken. First, there’s the Famous Recipe. This is the one that put them on the map. It’s hand-breaded with a special blend of herbs and spices that isn't overwhelming but has that perfect savory-salty balance. It’s crispy but not "shred your mouth" crunchy.

Then you’ve got the Spicy Chicken. Now, if you like a little kick, this is the way to go. It’s not just a dusting of cayenne; the flavor is built into the breading. It’s got a slow burn that makes it hard to stop eating. You can get these in individual pieces, like a classic breast, leg, thigh, or wing, or go for a snack or meal box.

The legendary breast strips

If you’re not in the mood to deal with bones, the Breast Strips at Lee’s are top-tier. I’m picky about chicken strips because so many places serve these tiny, dried-out twigs. Not here. Lee’s strips are huge, juicy, and actually look like a piece of chicken.

They offer them in the same Famous and Spicy coatings, but they also have a "Jumbo Dipper" version. These are usually boneless, bite-sized pieces that are perfect for kids (or adults who just want to snack while driving). They come with dipping sauces like BBQ, Honey Mustard, or their signature Chipotle Ranch, which is honestly liquid gold.

Sandwiches and more

For a while, Lee’s was all about the bone-in chicken, but they’ve joined the "chicken sandwich wars" with some serious contenders. The Famous Chicken Sandwich features a thick, juicy chicken filet on a brioche bun with pickles and chipotle ranch. It’s simple, but it works so well.

If you’re looking for something a bit lighter (or just different), they have Chicken Wraps and even a Chicken Pot Pie. The pot pie is one of those hidden menu gems. It’s got that flaky crust and a creamy center with peas, carrots, and big chunks of chicken. It feels like something your grandma would make on a Sunday afternoon.

Those famous sides

You can’t talk about Lee’s without talking about the sides. They call them "Country Sides," and they aren't just an afterthought.

The Mashed Potatoes and Gravy are the undisputed champions. The gravy is brown, rich, and has a bit of a peppery kick that ties the whole meal together. Then you have the Macaroni and Cheese, which is creamy and orange in that classic comfort-food way.

Other solid options include:

• Potato Wedges: These are thick-cut, seasoned, and usually have a nice crunch.

• Green Beans: Cooked with bacon flavor, so they actually taste like something.

• Coleslaw: It’s creamy and slightly sweet, perfect for cutting through the richness of the fried chicken.

• Baked Beans: Thick, sweet, and smoky.

Biscuits and rolls

Every meal comes with a biscuit, and let me tell you, these things are dangerous. They are fluffy, buttery, and salty on top. Sometimes I’ll just buy a half-dozen on their own. In some locations, you might see dinner rolls instead, but the biscuits are the real MVP here. If you’re feeling extra, get some honey to drizzle over them. It turns a side dish into a mini dessert.

See also: Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake: The Classic That Never Lets You Down

Livers and gizzards

Okay, stay with me here. I know Livers and Gizzards aren't for everyone, but Lee’s is one of the few places that does them right. They are hand-breaded and fried until golden. People who love them really love them, and Lee's has a bit of a cult following just for these. If you grew up in the Midwest or the South, this probably tastes like childhood to you.

Family meals and catering

If you’re feeding a whole crew, the family meals are the way to go. They usually come in 8, 12, 16, or 20-piece boxes. You get the chicken, a bunch of large sides, and a stack of biscuits. It’s way cheaper than buying everyone individual meals and makes dinner a lot easier when you don't feel like cooking.

They also do a lot of catering. Whether it’s a graduation party or a work lunch, they have these massive "Chicken Bars" where people can build their own plates. It’s always a hit because, let’s be real, who doesn't like fried chicken?

Sweet endings

By the time you finish your chicken and sides, you might be too full to breathe, but try to save a little room. Their Apple Turnovers are legendary. They are deep-fried (yes, really) and dusted with cinnamon sugar. They’re hot, crispy, and filled with gooey apple cinnamon goodness. Sometimes they have other desserts like brownies or parfaits, but the turnover is the classic choice.

Something to wash it down

To drink, you’ve got your standard fountain sodas, but Lee’s is also known for their Sweet Tea. It’s proper Southern-style sweet tea—the kind that’s brewed fresh and is sweet enough to make your teeth ache in the best way possible. They also have lemonade if you want to mix the two for a "Famous" Arnold Palmer.

See also: 5 Indoor Plants That Like Coffee Grounds (And 5 Plants That Don't)

Why Lee’s hits different

There is something about Lee’s that feels more "homemade" than the giant national chains. Maybe it’s the fact that they still hand-bread the chicken in small batches, or maybe it’s just the friendly atmosphere in the shops. It doesn't feel like a corporate machine; it feels like a local spot that just happened to grow.

When you're looking at the menu, don't feel pressured to get the "healthiest" thing. This is a place for indulgence. It’s for the days when you want the skin to be extra crispy and the gravy to be extra thick.

A few tips for your visit

If it's your first time, I always recommend the 2 or 3-piece Classic Meal. It gives you a good variety of chicken, two sides so you can try the mashed potatoes and something else, and that essential biscuit.

Also, keep an eye out for local specials. Since many Lee’s locations are franchised, they often have "Wednesday Specials" or "Leg and Thigh" deals that can save you a few bucks.

So, there you have it. The full breakdown of the Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken menu. It’s straightforward, honest, and consistently delicious. Whether you’re a fan of the spicy breast strips or you’re just there for a pile of gizzards and gravy, you really can’t go wrong. Next time you're driving past those red and yellow signs, do yourself a favor and pull in.

Your stomach will thank you later!

See also: Alice Waters’ Blueberry Cobbler (Chez Panisse Style)

Author Bio

Tyler is a dedicated lifestyle blogger with a passion for discovering the best local eats. She loves sharing simple, delicious food finds with hungry readers everywhere. Her goal is to make every dining experience feel like a special occasion.