Watch Top Chef Richard Blais Make Us His Iconic Fried Chicken Sandwich

For those who dont consider fried chicken a delicacy its probably because theyve never tried The Crack Shack , one of San Diegos most legendary fried chicken joints, led by well-known Top Chef and restaurateur, Richard Blais.

FOODBEAST recently caught up with Chef Blais at his newest Crack Shack location in Costa Mesa, California , to check out one of the most iconic fried chicken sandwiches ever created the Firebird.

It all starts with The Crack Shacks signature Nashville-style fried chicken. After marinating the chicken in buttermilk and pickle juice, the chicken is doused with a helping of Crack spice a signature blend of herbs and spices before its fried.

Now, it wouldnt be fair to call this sandwich The Firebird without throwing this perfectly crispy chicken breast into something that'll get your forehead sweaty, which is why every Firebird is dunked in a hot sauce blend of paprika and cayenne pepper right before its set on the toasted bun.

The Firebird comes together with a double helping of Ranch dressing on each bun, some fresh pickles and crispy onion straws.

Next time youre craving fried chicken, just know that The Crack Shack is FOODBEAST Approved.

To plan out your next foodie-venture in Costa Mesa, visit travelcostamesa.com/eatcation and tag your pics with #eatcation!

Photos by Pete Pham

By Evan Lancaster

A journalist focusing on news and anything that's trending. Insists that cherry flavoring makes any soft drink better. Follow him on Twitter or Instagram at @ThatsThatFuego .