Unearth The Voyage
Big’s Chicken on NE Glisan is the kind of Portland gem people whisper about and then can’t stop recommending. With a 4.6-star buzz and an Alabama-style twist, this funky, unpretentious spot turns fried chicken into a craveable ritual. Whether you’re chasing wings, a PDX Hot sammie, or those cult-favorite jojos, the crunch-meets-smoke magic delivers every time. Read on to discover why locals turn happy-hour detours and hospital-adjacent pit stops into repeat pilgrimages.
Why Big’s Chicken Is Portland’s Low-Key Legend
Set on NE Glisan across from the hospital hub, Big’s Chicken feels like a casual neighborhood joint that just happens to serve elite fried chicken. The secret isn’t just crispiness; it’s Alabama-style swagger—smoked, fried, and finished with tangy, peppery sauces. Regulars rave about lightning-fast service, fair prices ($10–20), and a crowd-pleasing menu that works for families, solo diners, and wing purists. The space is funky and welcoming, with an outdoor patio for sunny Portland afternoons. Review highlights praise the seasoned wings, spot-on order accuracy, and those addictive fried mac and cheese bites. Even mild skeptics get converted by the crunch and heat balance. With doors open daily from 11:30 AM to 9 PM, Big’s is reliably there when cravings strike—and it rarely misses.
The Wings: Smoke, Fry, and Face-Melting Flavor
Big’s wings are the calling card—smoked first for depth, then fried for a riot of crunch, and finished with a dry spice that doesn’t need to shout to be heard. Fans call them “as good as a wing gets,” praising the clean snap, juicy interior, and sauces that amplify without drowning. The Alabama white brings creamy tang; the Fresno and tangy hot add heat with character. Keto-ish eaters love the dry rub option, and pickle sides refresh the palate. Service is quick, plating is hot, and the portioning feels generous without excess. When cravings hit, these wings land fast and satisfy even faster. Order six and you’ll wish for twelve—locals do, and they rarely look back.
PDX Hot Sammie: Portland Heat, Alabama Soul
The PDX Hot chicken sammie is a heat ride that sneaks up, then sticks around with a satisfying glow. Big’s uses a juicy thigh for maximum flavor and crunch, sandwiches it between buttery Texas toast, and pairs it with zesty ranch and a maple-kissed sauce for sweet-savory balance. Reviewers rate the spice around a 6/10—bold, breathable, and addictive. The breading stays crisp under sauce, the pickles bring snap, and the portion hits that perfect sweet spot for lunch or dinner. It’s the kind of sandwich that makes you breathe deeper and grin wider. If you’re heat-curious but not seeking punishment, start here. Add jojos on the side and you’ve got a signature Big’s combo.
Classic Fried Chicken Sandwich, Engineered for Crunch
Big’s classic fried chicken sandwich is a study in restraint and technique. The kitchen resists over-saucing, letting a shattering crust and juicy poultry lead the way. A soft potato bun cradles the crunch, while Alabama white and Fresno sauces add tang and tingle without sogging the experience. The sandwich feels calibrated—salt, acid, heat, and texture aligned with precision. It’s ideal for folks who want maximal crunch with optional sauce swipes. Pair it a la carte with a six-piece wing set if you’re protein-forward, or tack on pickles for a cool, snappy contrast. It’s unfussy, deeply satisfying, and proof that Big’s doesn’t need gimmicks to impress.
Jojos: Portland’s Favorite Potato Side, Perfected
Jojos at Big’s are a minor Portland obsession—thick-cut wedges with armor-like crunch giving way to mashed-potato softness inside. Seasoning is assertive but balanced, designed to stand up to chicken without stealing the show. Multiple reviews call them heaven-sent, the kind you return for even when you’re not ordering a full meal. Dip them in the beloved “gold” sauce or zesty ranch for extra dimension. They land hot, not greasy, with steam puffing out of fluffy centers on first bite. If you’re choosing one side, pick these. Pro move: order a beer, take the patio, and let jojos be the soundtrack to your wing feast.
Fried Mac & Cheese Bites: Crunchy, Cheesy, Craveable
Fried mac and cheese bites at Big’s deliver pure comfort with a clever texture play. The exterior is audibly crisp, while the interior stays molten-cheesy without oozing into a mess. Dip in zesty ranch or Fresno for contrast—the heat slices through richness, making each bite feel fresh. They arrive at a just-right temperature, hot but not incendiary. It’s the shareable side that vanishes first during happy hour, great for kids, date nights, and wing flights alike. If you like a crunchy cheese pull and a snackable format, these bites are your move. They round out a table with wings, sandwiches, and jojos like a seasoned supporting actor.
Know Before You Go: Hours, Vibe, and Value
Big’s Chicken keeps it simple and reliable: open daily 11:30 AM to 9 PM, making it an easy lunch, pre-game dinner, or low-stress night out. Expect a funky, eclectic space with outdoor dining, quick ticket times, and friendly service that regulars shout out by name. Prices hover around $10–20, a fair deal for standout wings, generous sandwiches, and hearty sides. It’s a chicken restaurant first, but the vibe feels like a neighborhood hangout. Families, hospital visitors, and after-work crowds all land here. If you’re sauce-curious, ask for Alabama white, Fresno, tangy hot, and the famed gold—each changes the plate in a different way.
Plan Your Visit: Location and Quick Contacts
Find Big’s Chicken at 4606 NE Glisan St, Portland, OR 97213, near 45.5262796, -122.6154381—easy to spot and easier to love. Call +1 971-255-0358 for quick questions, or browse the menu at bigschicken.com before you go. Google Maps shows a 4.6-star rating across hundreds of reviews, with consistent praise for wings, jojos, and service speed. Parking is straightforward, and the patio offers a relaxed perch when the sun cooperates. If you’re timing a hospital visit or catching a bite after work, that 11:30 AM–9 PM window is clutch. Come hungry, order saucy, and don’t skip the pickles.
