Amazing Fried Chicken in Woodville, Texas: Pickett House

Fried chicken is just fried chicken, right? Not at The Pickett House in Woodville, Texas. This spot serves up some of the most amazing fried chicken you’ll ever taste. Woodville is a charming small town nestled in the heart of East Texas, known for its rich history and welcoming community. It serves as the county seat of Tyler County and is surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of the Big Thicket National Preserve. Woodville blends cultural heritage with natural beauty, featuring attractions like the Heritage Village Museum, which recreates a 19th-century East Texas village, and the serene Kirby State Forest. The town’s friendly atmosphere, coupled with unique dining spots like The Pickett House, makes Woodville a delightful destination for visitors seeking Southern hospitality and a glimpse into Texas history.

At The Pickett House, fried chicken becomes an extraordinary experience. The family-style platter service is a unique concept that transforms dining into a delightful adventure. From the moment you sit down, you’re treated to a generous and delectable feast. I first learned about this gem from a coworker who recommended it. Located about half an hour away from a wood products mill, it was clearly worth the trip. The journey to Woodville was rewarded with simple, country-style dining where the food truly shines.

A few months ago, my friend and I made the drive again to enjoy their all-you-can-eat fried chicken. Our first round included perfectly seasoned chicken, turnips, potatoes, black-eyed peas, dumplings, biscuits, and cornbread. While this would have satisfied most people, we indulged in two more rounds before finishing with a delightful cup of peach cobbler. In total, we devoured two whole chickens and numerous biscuits with syrup. We were definitely hungry and the meal did not disappoint.

The food at The Pickett House is mostly prepared from scratch, with a few exceptions. The kitchen buzzes with activity—pots clanging, people chatting, and meat searing. While the collard greens seemed canned and the chicken breasts were somewhat rubbery, the sweet tea was amazing, the staff friendly, and the prices reasonable. The dining experience is charmingly old-fashioned, with long tables and bench seats adding to the rustic feel.

Despite living an hour and a half away, my wife and I find ourselves at The Pickett House about once a month due to my new job. The consistent excellence of the food and service makes the drive worthwhile. You order and pay at the cashier, get your own drinks and silverware, and sit down. Almost immediately, a cart arrives with fried chicken and sides like beans, chicken and dumplings, mashed potatoes with gravy, biscuits, and more. Most visits end with a serving of peach cobbler as a sweet finale to this endless feast.

But their fried chicken - oh my goodness. Their fried chicken is all about a perfect balance of crispy, flavorful coating and juicy, tender meat. Achieving this involves marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor and moisture, then dredging it in a well-seasoned flour mixture. The key is frying at the right temperature to create a golden-brown crust while ensuring the inside is thoroughly cooked. The best fried chicken also has a subtle, well-blended seasoning that enhances the taste without overpowering the natural flavor of the chicken, making every bite a satisfying and delicious experience.

Dining at The Pickett House feels like stepping back in time. The restaurant is part of a recreated turn-of-the-century lumber town, complete with a museum and hiking trails. The charming interior features vintage circus posters, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere. After a hearty meal, a stroll through the outdoor museum is highly recommended. The space reflects old Southern farmhouse charm, and the staff, dressed in old-timey attire, constantly replenish the food on your table, adding a layer of cuteness to the experience.

If you’re ever near Woodville, Texas, do yourself a favor and visit The Pickett House. It’s a culinary journey back in time with some of the best fried chicken you’ll ever taste. The family-style dining, historical setting, and all-you-can-eat offerings make it a unique and memorable dining experience. The meal is a family-style buffet, allowing you to request as much fried chicken, biscuits, cornbread, collard greens, green beans, pickled beets, chicken and dumplings, and coleslaw as you want. Drinks are included, and they serve you peach cobbler at the end. The staff are attentive, the service quick, and the history of the grounds adds to the charm. With a heritage museum, gift store, and hiking trail on the grounds, The Pickett House is a must-visit for an amazing Southern dining experience.

157 Private Rd 6000, Woodville, TX 75979

(409) 283-3371

www.heritage-village.org/pickett-house.htm