Downtown Eats: Big Flavors at Big Chicken
This downtown spot isn’t your average fast-food joint. Founded by basketball icon Shaquille O’Neal, this restaurant brings a larger-than-life approach to its menu and atmosphere, embodying Shaq’s unmistakable style and southern roots. Known for its Southern-inspired chicken sandwiches, crispy tenders, and signature sides, Big Chicken delivers fast, bold flavors that pack a punch. Whether it’s Shaq Sauce on a loaded sandwich or Lucille’s Mac N’ Cheese (a recipe straight from Shaq’s mom), the menu is crafted to satisfy those craving big, satisfying bites in a fun, casual setting.
Why did the interns cross the road? To get to Big Chicken, of course!
Located at 410 Broad Street, Big Chicken’s convenient spot is within walking distance from anywhere in the city center. Open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick bite between exploring the Chattanooga sights. The spacious interior offers plenty of seating, making it an easy stop for families, friends, or anyone craving bold flavors downtown.
The Space
Upon entering the tall, Shaq-approved doors, you’ll find tributes to Shaquille O’Neal hidden throughout Big Chicken’s space. From his framed jersey to Shaq-sized footprints by the drink station, every detail nods to the man behind the brand. Bold “Can you dig it?” signs add even more personality to the walls, creating an immersive experience that’s equal parts fun and flavorful.
+ Bonus points for the paper towels on each table (trust us—they’re necessary).
The Spread
Feast your eyes on a spread fit for any chicken lover! Our table was covered with solid menu staples: Lemon Pepper and Thai Chili Wings, piled-high Dirty Fries, Uncle Jerome’s Nashville Hot sandwich, a creamy Strawberry Shake, golden Crinkle Cut Fries, and Dunks—a piping hot basket of boneless chicken nuggets. Every piece of chicken here is fresh and all-natural, making each bite as juicy as it is flavorful.
But be warned: these dishes are not for the faint-hearted. With rich, Southern-style seasoning and generous portions, every item is hearty and deeply satisfying. However, for those looking for a lighter bite, there’s the option to have any chicken dish grilled, providing even more avenues to enjoy the bold flavors of Big Chicken!
Top 3 Picks:
Dirty Fries
The crowd favorite by far, this shockingly-good combination of sweet and crunchy banana peppers, rich cheese, chipotle BBQ sauce, and smoky bacon works perfectly atop the well-seasoned crinkle fries, making for the ideal side dish or meal.
Dunks
They’re simple, juicy, and are the perfect canvas for the vast array of sauces offered free of charge at the sauce bar. Our favorite pairings were the signature Big Chicken Sauce and the Carolina BBQ.
Strawberry Milkshake
The perfect, sweet and creamy ending to a filling meal, this rich shake was overflowing with whipped cream and a strawberry jam. If you don’t think you can finish the full-size (or just want to try a few different flavors), they also offer mini shakes.
All in all, we left Big Chicken with full stomachs, new favorites, and plenty of leftovers for later. Shaq’s latest venture might be one of his most flavorful yet, proving this side quest to be as much of a slam dunk as his game on the court. Big Chicken isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience that combines the charm of a beloved personality with bold flavors, earning a resounding stamp of approval from the interns.
Tori Catlett
Marketing Intern