If you’re craving classic Chicago-style fried chicken, look no further than the legendary Harold’s Chicken Shack Menu. Known for its crispy chicken, tangy mild sauce, and loyal fanbase, Harold’s has stood the test of time since it was founded in 1950 by Harold Pierce. With locations scattered across the Midwest and South, it has evolved from a humble neighborhood spot to a cultural icon. But in 2025, what’s actually worth ordering—and how much will it cost you?
This guide explores the Harold’s Chicken Shack Menu with prices, item by item, and gives you insider tips on what to try, what to skip, and where the best value lies. Whether you’re a first-timer or a long-time fan, we’ll help you make the most out of your next order.
Overview of Harold’s Chicken Shack
Harold’s Chicken Shack isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a Chicago institution. Established on the South Side, it quickly became famous for its no-frills fried chicken, flavorful sauces, and down-home vibe. Over the decades, Harold’s has expanded to serve a loyal customer base across multiple cities while still staying true to its roots.
What sets Harold’s apart isn’t just the food, but the culture surrounding it. The brand is deeply tied to local identity, music, and late-night eats. You’ll often find people arguing about whether to go with mild, hot, or mixed sauce—it’s serious business. That passion is part of what makes the Harold’s Chicken Shack Menu so iconic.
Even with its expansion, Harold’s has kept prices reasonable, making it a go-to for budget-friendly comfort food. Whether you’re ordering a classic 4-piece wing dinner or a hearty catfish combo, there’s something nostalgic yet satisfying about every bite.
Harold’s Chicken Shack Menu
In 2025, the Harold’s Chicken Shack Menu with prices has seen some slight increases due to inflation, but it still offers great value for the flavor-packed meals you get. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular categories:
A La Carte
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Wing | $3.50 |
| Breast | $5.50 |
| Leg | $2.50 |
| Thigh | $3.00 |
| Catfish | $4.00 |
| Perch | $4.50 |
| 5pc Shrimp | $7.50 |
The A La Carte section of the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu is perfect for those who want to customize their meal or enjoy a quick snack. This selection offers individual pieces of their famously crispy fried chicken, including wings, breasts, legs, and thighs.
Each piece is cooked to perfection, delivering the signature flavor Harold’s is known for. In addition to chicken, seafood lovers can opt for a single portion of catfish or perch, both seasoned and fried with the same attention to quality. For something a bit more indulgent, the 5-piece shrimp option is a customer favorite—crispy, flavorful, and served piping hot. This flexible menu section is great for mixing and matching or pairing with your favorite sides.
Whether you’re looking to try a bit of everything or just want a smaller portion of a favorite item, the A La Carte choices on the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu make it easy to enjoy.
Sides + Extras
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 1/2 Pint Coleslaw | $3.00 |
| Fried Okra | $5.00 |
| Cheese Sticks | $4.00 |
| Jalapeño Poppers | $4.00 |
| 8pc Onion Ring | $4.00 |
| Small Fries | $3.00 |
| Large Fries | $6.00 |
| Bucket of Fries | $10.00 |
| Pizza Puff | $4.50 |
| Pizza Puff /Fries | $6.50 |
The Sides + Extras section of the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu is where flavor meets fun. These delicious add-ons are perfect for enhancing your main meal or enjoying on their own as a savory snack. You can choose from comfort food staples like coleslaw, crispy small or large fries, or go big with a full bucket of fries for sharing.
If you’re craving something crunchy and flavorful, fried okra, cheese sticks, and jalapeño poppers offer just the right kick. Onion rings, served in an 8-piece portion, bring a satisfying crunch and classic taste. One of the standout extras is the pizza puff—a flaky, cheesy treat that feels like a meal on its own.
If you’re extra hungry, the combo option that includes pizza puff and fries is a great choice. These extras truly elevate the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu, giving customers plenty of ways to build a crave-worthy plate.
$6 Lunch Specials
| Combo | Price |
|---|---|
| 1/4 Dark + Fries + Pop | $6.00 |
| Small Gizzard + Fries + Pop | $6.00 |
| Pizza Puff + Fries + Pop | $6.00 |
| 5pc Shrimp + Fries + Pop | $6.00 |
The $6 Lunch Specials at Harold’s Chicken Shack are a true gem for anyone craving a satisfying, affordable midday meal. Available Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 2 PM, these combos are perfect for lunch on the go or a quick sit-down bite.
Each meal is thoughtfully put together with a hearty main item, a side of crispy fries, and a refreshing pop to wash it down. Options include the 1/4 dark chicken combo for those who love classic fried chicken flavor, or the small gizzard combo for a bold Southern twist. Craving something cheesy? The pizza puff combo hits the spot, blending flaky pastry with a warm, savory filling.
And for seafood lovers, the 5-piece shrimp combo brings just the right crunch and flavor. These Harold’s Chicken Shack menu combos offer unbeatable value without compromising taste, making them a go-to lunch choice for regulars and newcomers alike.
Wing Dinners
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 2 Wing (Snack Pack) | $6.50 |
| 4 Wing Dinner | $10.50 |
| 6 Wing Dinner | $14.50 |
| 8 Wing Dinner | $18.50 |
| 10 Wing Dinner | $23.50 |
| 4pc Tenders | $8.00 |
The Wing Dinners section of the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu is a favorite among wing enthusiasts, offering options for every appetite. Whether you’re in the mood for a light bite or a feast, there’s a portion size just for you.
The Snack Pack with 2 wings is ideal for quick cravings or smaller appetites, delivering that crispy, juicy Harold’s flavor in a convenient portion. Moving up, the 4, 6, 8, and 10 wing dinners cater to larger appetites and group sharing, making them perfect for lunch, dinner, or late-night indulgence. Each dinner comes with the signature deep-fried wings seasoned to perfection—crispy on the outside and tender inside.
For those who prefer boneless bites, the 4-piece tenders provide a delicious alternative while still capturing that famous Harold’s taste. This part of the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu offers something for everyone, especially if you’re serious about your wings.
Chicken Dinners
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 1/4 White | $10.00 |
| 1/4 Dark | $7.50 |
| 1/2 White | $16.00 |
| 1/2 Dark | $12.50 |
| 1/2 Mix | $14.00 |
| (2pc) Breast | $12.50 |
The Chicken Dinner section of the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu offers hearty portions of their signature fried chicken, perfect for those craving a full, satisfying meal. Each option is thoughtfully portioned to suit different preferences, whether you enjoy light or dark meat.
The 1/4 dark dinner is a budget-friendly favorite, offering rich, juicy pieces with bold flavor, while the 1/4 white dinner caters to those who prefer leaner cuts. For larger appetites, the 1/2 chicken dinners—available in white, dark, or mixed—deliver generous servings ideal for a filling lunch or dinner.
The mixed option is great if you want to enjoy the best of both worlds. There’s also a 2-piece breast dinner, perfect for those who love the thick, crispy crust and tender meat of white chicken breast. Each plate is crafted with Harold’s signature seasoning and sauce, making this section a highlight of the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu.
Livers + Gizzards
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Small Liver | $7.00 |
| Large Liver | $10.00 |
| Small Gizzard | $7.00 |
| Large Gizzard | $10.00 |
| Giblet | $10.00 |
| Gizzard + (3) Wing | $12.00 |
| Liver + (3) Wing | $12.00 |
The Livers + Gizzards section of the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu brings a true taste of Southern comfort to the table. These dishes are beloved by longtime fans for their bold flavor, crispy texture, and satisfying portions.
Whether you choose a small or large order of chicken livers or gizzards, you’re getting a dish that’s perfectly seasoned and fried to golden perfection. The giblet option is a classic favorite, combining bits of both for a flavorful mix that delivers on texture and taste.
For those who want to mix things up, combo plates like gizzards with 3 wings or livers with 3 wings offer the best of both worlds—tender fried organ meats alongside Harold’s famous wings. These options may not be for the faint of heart, but they’re a staple of the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu, offering deep, savory flavor that keeps loyal customers coming back for more.
Chicken Buckets
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 25 Wing | $50.00 |
| 8 pc Dark | $15.00 |
| 16 pc Dark | $30.00 |
| 8 pc Mix | $22.00 |
| 16 pc Mix | $45.00 |
| 8pc Catfish | $32.00 |
The Chicken Bucket section of the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu is perfect for feeding a crowd or stocking up for the week. These generous portions are ideal for family meals, parties, or game day spreads. The 25-wing bucket is a top choice for wing lovers, offering plenty of crispy, flavorful pieces to share—or keep all to yourself.
For fans of dark meat, the 8-piece and 16-piece dark buckets deliver rich, juicy chicken that’s full of flavor. If you want variety, the mixed buckets include both white and dark cuts, giving you a well-rounded chicken experience. Each piece is fried to Harold’s signature golden-brown finish and pairs perfectly with their legendary mild or hot sauce.
For seafood lovers, the 8-piece catfish bucket is a delicious alternative, offering flaky, seasoned catfish fried to perfection. Every bucket on the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu promises quality, quantity, and that irresistible Southern-style taste.
Seafood Combos
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| (1) Catfish + (3) Wing | $14.00 |
| (1) Catfish + 1/4 White | $14.00 |
| (1) Catfish + 1/4 Dark | $11.00 |
| (1) Catfish + (5) Shrimp | $13.00 |
| (5) Shrimp + (3) Wing | $14.50 |
| (3) Perch + (3) Wing | $15.50 |
| (3) Perch + (5) Shrimp | $17.00 |
The Seafood Combos on the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu are a flavorful fusion of land and sea, perfect for those who love variety in every bite. Each combo is crafted to deliver bold taste and satisfying portions, combining Harold’s signature fried chicken with crispy, well-seasoned seafood favorites. One of the most popular picks is the catfish and wing combo, blending a flaky fish fillet with the chain’s iconic wings.
For a heartier option, combos that pair catfish with either 1/4 white or dark chicken offer a great balance of textures and flavors. Seafood lovers will enjoy the catfish and shrimp duo, delivering a crispy crunch in every bite. The perch combos are equally crave-worthy, especially when paired with wings or shrimp for an extra punch of flavor.
These combos showcase the diversity of the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu, making them a top choice for anyone looking to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Seafood Dinners
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| (2pc) Small Catfish | $9.50 |
| (3pc) Large Catfish | $13.50 |
| (3pc) Small Perch | $11.50 |
| (5pc) Large Perch | $15.50 |
| (8pc) Shrimp | $13.00 |
| (16pc) Shrimp | $26.00 |
The Seafood Dinners section of the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu offers a delicious alternative for those who prefer fish and shrimp over chicken. Each plate is loaded with golden, crispy seafood that’s seasoned to perfection and fried fresh to order. The small and large catfish dinners are a crowd favorite, offering tender fillets with a light, crunchy coating that pairs perfectly with fries or coleslaw.
If you’re a fan of perch, both the small and large options deliver mild flavor and flaky texture in every bite. Shrimp lovers won’t be disappointed either—the 8-piece and 16-piece shrimp dinners are a seafood lover’s dream, offering plump, juicy shrimp in generous portions.
Whether you’re dining solo or feeding a group, these seafood dinners add tasty variety to the Harold’s Chicken Shack menu while staying true to the bold flavors the restaurant is known for. It’s comfort food with a Southern seafood twist.
What’s Worth Ordering? My Top Picks
| Item | Why It’s Worth It | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 6 Wing Dinner | Perfectly crispy wings + Harold’s signature mild sauce | Ask for extra sauce on the side |
| 1/4 Dark Chicken Dinner | Flavorful, juicy, and budget-friendly | Pairs well with coleslaw or fried okra |
| (3) Perch + (5) Shrimp Combo | Best seafood combo for variety lovers | Add hot sauce for a spicy seafood punch |
| Cheese Fries | Rich, cheesy, and a perfect side to any meal | Eat fresh—cheese gets better while hot |
| Pizza Puff + Fries + Pop (Lunch) | Great value lunch deal—crispy, filling, and includes a drink | Ideal quick bite between 11am–2pm weekdays |
| 8pc Shrimp Dinner | Generous portion, crispy coating, and packed with flavor | Perfect with a splash of lemon or tartar sauce |
| Gizzard + (3) Wing Combo | A bold, flavorful choice for seasoned Harold’s fans | Go for mild sauce to balance the richness |
| Fried Okra | Lightly crispy, underrated, and great for sharing | Try it with ranch for extra flavor |
| 25 Wing Bucket | Ideal for groups or serious wing lovers | Mix sauces for a unique flavor experience |
| Mild + Hot Mixed Sauce Combo | A flavorful twist for those who can’t pick just one | Ask for your sauce on the side to control heat |
Prices Compared to Other Chicken Chains
When you compare Harold’s Chicken Shack menu with big-name chicken chains like KFC, Popeyes, or Church’s Chicken, you’ll notice that Harold’s strikes a balance between affordability and portion size. While mainstream chains often rely on combo pricing, Harold’s focuses on à la carte flexibility and hearty dinner portions.
For example, a 6 Wing Dinner at Harold’s typically costs less than a similar combo from Popeyes but gives you more food and the famous Harold’s sauce. Seafood combos like catfish + wings or shrimp + perch are also a rarity at bigger chains, giving Harold’s a unique edge in both flavor variety and value.
Sides like fried okra or pizza puff combos offer more local flavor compared to standardized fast-food sides. You may pay slightly more for specialty items at Harold’s, but the taste, authenticity, and generous portions make it a better deal overall—especially if you’re craving Chicago-style fried chicken.
Tips to Save Money
| Tip | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Go for Lunch Specials | Only $6 for a combo (fries + pop + entrée) during weekdays (11am–2pm) |
| Order Dark Meat Combos | Dark meat is cheaper but still juicy and flavorful |
| Share a Wing Bucket | Bigger portions at better per-piece value |
| Mix & Match Seafood Combos | Combo meals are cheaper than ordering items separately |
| Skip Extra Drinks | Drinks can add up quickly |
| Choose Sides Wisely | Small fries or onion rings are cheaper than large sides |
| Look for Combo Add-Ons | Some combos include sides or extra pieces at a small price increase |
| Avoid Peak Times | Shorter lines = better service & time to ask for specials |
| Follow Harold’s on Social Media | Occasional promotions or limited-time offers shared online |
| Stick to Local Favorites | Harold’s signature items offer the best value and flavor |
Links – Harold’s Chicken Shack
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Website | www.haroldschickenshack.com |
| Menu | haroldschickenaz.com/menu |
| Facebook Page | facebook.com/HaroldsChickenShack |
| @haroldschicken |
FAQs
1. What is Harold’s Chicken Shack most famous for?
Harold’s Chicken Shack is best known for its uniquely seasoned fried chicken and signature mild and hot sauces. Originating in Chicago in the 1950s, the chain has developed a cult following for its no-frills, deeply flavorful chicken dinners, especially the wing and dark meat combos. Fans also love the crispy texture of the skin and the customizable spice level. Over the years, Harold’s has expanded to serve seafood, liver, gizzards, and combo platters, but fried chicken remains the core reason customers keep coming back.
2. Are the prices at Harold’s Chicken Shack considered affordable?
Yes, Harold’s Chicken Shack menu prices are generally viewed as affordable, especially compared to larger national chains. Items like the $6 lunch specials offer tremendous value for a complete meal that includes fries and a drink. Regular dinners and a la carte items are priced reasonably given the portion sizes. For larger groups, the chicken buckets and seafood combos provide cost-effective options. While seafood dinners and wings can reach higher price points, the flavor and portions justify the cost for many repeat customers.
3. Does Harold’s Chicken Shack offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Harold’s Chicken Shack is primarily a meat- and seafood-focused establishment, so vegetarian or vegan options are very limited. Some sides such as fries, onion rings, and coleslaw may be suitable for vegetarians, but it’s important to ask about preparation methods as items may be fried in shared oil. If you’re strictly vegan, Harold’s might not be the best fit unless you’re stopping by just for fries or beverages. The menu is designed to cater mainly to meat and seafood lovers.
4. Can I customize my order at Harold’s Chicken Shack?
Yes, customization is possible to a reasonable extent at Harold’s. You can typically choose between mild or hot sauce (or even ask for it on the side), request extra seasoning, or select specific pieces of chicken like breast, wing, thigh, or leg. Combo meals often allow you to choose your preferred drink or side. While it’s not a “build-your-own” type restaurant, most locations are accommodating to small requests — especially if you’re ordering in-store or by phone rather than online.
5. Does Harold’s Chicken Shack offer delivery or online ordering?
Many Harold’s Chicken Shack locations now offer online ordering and delivery through third-party apps such as DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub. Customers can also place orders directly through Harold’s website at participating locations. Delivery availability and fees may vary depending on your location, so it’s always best to check with your local branch. Keep in mind that some menu prices may differ slightly on delivery platforms due to service charges or special promotions.
6. What’s the best meal for first-timers to try at Harold’s?
If it’s your first time at Harold’s Chicken Shack, start with the classic 4 Wing Dinner or 1/4 Dark Combo — both showcase the crispy, juicy fried chicken that made Harold’s famous. Add fries and a drink, and don’t skip the mild sauce unless you prefer a serious kick from the hot version. If you enjoy seafood, the catfish and shrimp combos are also popular and give you a taste of Harold’s extended menu without straying too far from the signature flavor profile. These options give a great introduction to the bold, satisfying style that defines Harold’s.
7. Is there a kids’ menu at Harold’s Chicken Shack?
While Harold’s Chicken Shack doesn’t have a designated kids’ menu, many of the snack packs and small a la carte items are suitable for children. Items like the 2 Wing Snack Pack, small fries, or 5pc shrimp are great portion sizes for younger diners. That said, the spice level of Harold’s sauces might be a bit intense for some kids, so it’s a good idea to ask for sauce on the side or opt for plain fried chicken pieces if you’re ordering for little ones.
Final Thoughts
Harold’s Chicken Shack offers more than just a meal — it delivers a true Chicago-style comfort food experience that has stood the test of time. With its flavorful fried chicken, iconic sauces, and a surprisingly broad menu of seafood, gizzards, livers, and combo dinners, there’s something for nearly every fried food lover. The Harold’s Chicken Shack menu strikes a balance between affordability and satisfaction, especially with budget-friendly options like the $6 lunch specials and generous family buckets.
If you’re craving crispy, seasoned-to-perfection chicken or a hearty seafood platter without breaking the bank, Harold’s is a solid choice. And with menu pricing that holds up well against national chains, it’s no surprise that the brand has earned a loyal fan base across generations. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning customer, knowing what to order — and how to save — will make your next visit even better.
Hungry yet? Because Harold’s is definitely worth the hype.
