An Amazing Stop On Illinois’ Historic Route 66, Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket Has Been A Local Hit Since The 1940s

In the late 1930s or early 1940s, Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket started as a lunch counter in an old gas station. Two women from an area farm ventured in one day and presented an incredible fried chicken recipe to the owner, promising to teach him how to make it if, in turn, he bought chickens from them. He agreed. The fried chicken gained so much popularity that the gas station's car repair areas had to be turned into a dining room. The restaurant kept growing and so a new restaurant was built next door to accommodate its growing customer base. The year was 1946 when the Chicken Basket first opened its new doors at its current location along Illinois' Historic Route 66. In 1963, it was purchased by local resident Dell Rhea and the restaurant thus became known as Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket.

The Chicken Basket's fame over the years has made it the go-to road trip eatery and has been a fixture along Route 66 now for over 70 years. For those traveling the road, it serves as the perfect place to stop for an incredible meal.

The interior, with its welcoming atmosphere, is decorated with chickens.

This roadhouse is obviously known for its Famous Fried Chicken in a Basket, which has half a chicken that is quartered, hand-breaded, and deep-fried to perfection! Add a side of mashed potatoes, corn pudding, green beans, rice pilaf, and more for a delicious combination.

The chicken comes in many forms here, from tenders to chicken and waffles, to blackened, char-broiled, roasted, or in a pot pie, you will find a dish that satisfies you.

But this roadhouse has so much more than just chicken. Start your meal with fried cauliflower, sliders, salad, or jalapeno poppers, just to name a few. Seafood is also an option and there's a kids' menu available for the littles.

And you must save room for a homemade dessert! Are you daring enough to try the hot Fried Blueberry Pie? Have it a la mode to add to the decadence.

If you come here at night, you will be treated to the Dell Rhea's sign all aglow in its vintage-style neon glory.

I'm sure you are hungry now! For location information, hours, and specials, visit the Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket Facebook page or website.