11 Best Chicken Restaurants near Rancho Santa Margarita

“We had to wait about 5 minutes for our food but it was worth the wait! The chicken was really good! I've been to other locations where the chicken was terrible. So much so that this was the last time I was going to try KFC. But I will be back to this location only!“

“Outstanding experience at Dave’s Hot Chicken. Logan delivered top tier service the moment I walked in. He greeted me right away and asked what I was in the mood for. He listened, then guided me to the exact combo that fit what I wanted today. No upsell. Just good advice.

The restaurant felt clean and organized. The music was on point and created a relaxed, upbeat atmosphere. Service was fast and smooth, exactly what you want from a quick service spot.

Logan set the tone for the entire visit. Great food, great energy, great execution. I will be back.“

“I know this is very late, but I still wanted to give a shout-out to Moe at Dizzy Bird.

I stopped by on Christmas Eve with my family and placed a big order. After I paid, I realized I forgot to order fries. Moe immediately took care of me and didn’t even want me to wait or go back in line to make another payment. He just grabbed them for me right away and got me taken care of.

He was genuinely kind and didn’t make it a hassle at all. I really wanted management to know how awesome and genuine he was. Also, every time I come here, the team behind the counter is always super friendly, kind, and welcoming. This isn’t my first time here, and the service is consistently great. Definitely one of my go-to spots.“

“Love this place there food is so clean and tasty. Best chicken spot I have been to. I have been to almost all of them from Dave’s to hotties to Breds. But this one by far is the tastiest and most juicy. If you like your chicken juicy and crispy this is the place to try. Try them out asap if you havnt yet.“

“This is from a month ago. But I had a great experience at Chick-fil-A because of Danny. From the moment I arrived, he was friendly, respectful, and made me feel welcome right away. He was outside in the drive-thru. Even with everything happening, he stayed calm, professional, and efficient. He took my order quickly, got everything right, and kept the line moving smoothly. I was surprised from a kid that young working so well. I will for sure be coming back again.“

“El Pollo Norteno has some of the best mexican food I’ve ever had the pleasure of trying. Chicken is always juicy and flavorful. The burritos are exceptionally good, but my favorite menu item is definitely the torta de pollo. Staff is always kind and very helpful, and this location is always clean. Pro tip: get the chips and guac and the red salsa!“

“Food is always good and yummy. Love their sweet tea and kids meals are the best.“

“This location runs like a machine. The drive-thru looks chaotic at first glance, but they’ve got people outside taking orders, moving lines, and keeping everything efficient. You’ll think it’s a 20-minute wait and be out in five.

Food is exactly what you expect. Clean, consistent, and done right. Chicken sandwich is always solid, waffle fries hit, and the sauces carry more weight than people give them credit for.

As someone who works locally, I pay attention to operations, and this place is a case study. Clients ask me about places like this when they’re evaluating areas to live because it reflects how well-run a neighborhood is. Sounds small, but it matters.

Staff is polite, quick, and actually seems trained. That alone separates it from half the places out there.

You don’t go here for surprises. You go because it works every time.“

“Excellent service by the staff (Ben and Violet-so courteous and pleasant. Ben actually asked several guests if he could refill their drinks or get them anything.)

Super positive vibe here, food was good and the place was CLEAN“

“Food was great. Staff even greater.

Worth noting... building may be due for a full repipe... as a result the women's restroom is pretty heavily rusted.

Sitting on the toilet (admittedly as a broader broad) feels like you're waiting for suntea in granny's rocker on the porch. Needs a new flange and to be remounted at the minimum.

So as to avoid having to do it again sooner, rather than later, consider the repiping.

Of note the manager seemed like this is one of his biggest stressers... trying to get his bosses to agree to the job, while trying to still assuage customers who go through the experience.“

“The Chick-Fil-A in Foothill Ranch is excellent! The chicken nuggets, waffle fries, Mac and cheese, and fruit cups are always freshly prepared and absolutely delicious! My two toddler sons and I go to this location approximately twice a week, and every visit I am always impressed by how good the service is and how incredibly CLEAN everything is. My sons absolutely love coming here, because the food is so yummy and they love playing in the indoor playground. Additionally, the owner of the Chick-Fil-A is amazing! She is very kind, helpful, and generous with customers. She takes the time to talk with my toddler sons every visit and it is evident that she truly cares about providing guests with a great experience! This is literally the BEST Chick-Fil-A location, and I highly recommend checking it out!“