The Finest Chicken Sandwich in Goldthwaite, Texas – 'Bootleg!'

If you ever find yourself driving through the heart of Central Texas, make a detour to Goldthwaite and treat yourself to one of the finest fried chicken experiences the Lone Star State has to offer—Bootleg Chicken. Tucked away in a modest building with a charming country vibe, this unassuming gem has earned a loyal following among locals and travelers alike. Bootleg Chicken isn’t just a name—it’s a culinary experience grounded in Southern roots and small-town hospitality.

Bootleg Chicken is all about simplicity done right. Their menu focuses on quality over quantity, featuring a handful of Southern staples and daily specials that rotate based on what's freshest and most flavorful. But their standout offering is, of course, the chicken—crispy, golden, and seasoned to perfection. It’s the kind of fried chicken that makes you pause after the first bite and smile, because it hits every note: crunchy, juicy, tender, and just the right amount of salty heat. But don't forget about their amazing hamburgers as well - juicy, flavorful and filling!

The most popular item on the menu is the classic bone-in fried chicken plate. Each piece is pressure-fried to lock in moisture, resulting in meat that’s impossibly juicy under a crisp, seasoned crust. Paired with made-from-scratch sides like buttery mashed potatoes, tangy collard greens, or creamy mac and cheese, this meal is Southern comfort food at its finest. The house-made white gravy, with its peppery kick, is the perfect companion for dipping or drizzling. What sets Bootleg Chicken apart isn’t just the food—it’s the atmosphere. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted with the warm charm of a true Texas eatery. Wooden tables, vintage signs, and the low hum of country music in the background create a setting that’s as welcoming as it is nostalgic. The staff treat you like family, taking time to chat, offer recommendations, and make sure your dining experience is nothing short of memorable.

Bootleg Chicken also knows how to serve the community. They regularly host small-town events, pop-up nights with rotating flavors (think hot honey-glazed thighs or Cajun-seasoned tenders), and offer take-out meals for busy families and working folks. Their popularity has turned them into a weekend destination for folks from nearby towns like Brownwood, Lampasas, and even as far as Austin.

If you're not in the mood for fried chicken, the Bootleg Chicken sandwich is another star. Served on a toasted bun with house-made pickles, a tangy slaw, and spicy mayo, it’s a flavor bomb that rivals anything you’ll find in a big city. Add a side of crispy fries dusted with signature seasoning and an ice-cold sweet tea, and you’ve got the perfect Southern lunch. Desserts aren’t overlooked here, either. The rotating selection includes fried pies, banana pudding, and seasonal cobblers that taste like grandma made them. Nothing fancy, just comforting, soul-soothing sweets that round off the meal in the best way possible.

For those who’ve lived in Goldthwaite for years, Bootleg Chicken is more than a restaurant—it’s a source of hometown pride. And for those discovering it for the first time, it’s an invitation to slow down and enjoy the kind of meal that reminds you why small-town Texas still matters in the culinary conversation. In a world of chain restaurants and fast food, Bootleg Chicken stands tall as a reminder of what great food is all about—heart, flavor, and community. So the next time you’re craving chicken done right, make your way to Goldthwaite and pull up a chair at Bootleg Chicken. You’ll leave full, happy, and already planning your return.

707 Commercial Dr, Goldthwaite, TX 76844

(210) 722-3072

https://www.facebook.com/people/BootlegChicken/61550564123947/