Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack

Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack is a casual restaurant in Arden, NC that serves Nashville hot chicken, salads and southern sides. It’s a locally-owned restaurant and definitely considered an Asheville institution at this point.

The hot chicken comes in 8 different spice levels— everything from plain to extra hot. Two of the spice levels include honey in the hot sauce (both are awesome!) As far as the chicken goes, you can choose from chicken legs, thighs, breasts and tenders. They also have not chicken breaded cutlets made using Quorn products.

While the fried chicken at Rocky’s is absolutely delicious, the sides are just as noteworthy. Make sure to try the mac & cheese! And if you are up for it, order the fried mac poppers. They are served with Rocky’s zippy ranch and are pretty delicious.

You order at the counter at Rocky’s Hot Chicken and then they’ll bring it to you when ready. There’s often a line but it moves fast.