When most people think of the best fried chicken in Illinois, a gas station probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But along historic Route 66, one roadside spot has been dishing out golden, crispy chicken for nearly a century. Here’s why Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket has earned its legendary status.
1. It All Started at a Gas Station
In the heart of Willowbrook, Illinois, a simple gas station began to offer more than just fuel. During the late 1920s, this unassuming stop started serving fried chicken from its lunch counter, a move that would shape its future. Travelers along the historic Route 66 would stop not just to refuel their cars but to refuel themselves with some delicious food.
The charm of this place was not just in its practicality but in its hospitality. The smell of frying chicken wafting through the air often tempted even the most hurried travelers to pause and indulge.
Over time, the gas station’s culinary offerings became the main attraction. This simple beginning laid down the foundation for what would become a beloved dining establishment, renowned for its delightful chicken, setting a precedent for diners along the famous highway.
2. A Secret Recipe Sparked It All
Two enterprising local farmwomen approached the gas station owner with a tempting offer. In exchange for a place to cook and sell their chickens, they shared their cherished fried chicken recipe. This collaboration proved pivotal.
Their recipe, a blend of secret spices and techniques, quickly captivated locals and travelers alike. It wasn’t just the taste that won hearts, but the story behind it. Sharing recipes and meals formed a sense of community among patrons.
The gas station transformed from a mere stopover into a culinary destination. This secret recipe became the cornerstone of its success, propelling it into culinary folklore. It’s a testament to how food can forge relationships and build legends. With each bite, diners tasted history, tradition, and the collaborative spirit of the women who started it all.
3. By 1946, Chicken Took Over
As the years rolled by, the gas station’s identity underwent a metamorphosis. By 1946, the focus on fried chicken was undeniable. The gas pumps slowly vanished, giving way to a full-fledged restaurant ambiance.
The establishment was christened Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket, marking its evolution and dedication to serving exceptional food. This shift wasn’t merely about changing the menu; it was about embracing a new identity.
From a roadside amenity to a culinary landmark, this restaurant captured the essence of American entrepreneurship. It highlighted how a simple idea, fueled by passion and community support, could grow into something much more significant. It became a beacon for those seeking quality, tradition, and innovation in one. The legacy of 1946 lives on, celebrated through every meal served.
4. Route 66 Travelers Made It Famous
Route 66, known as the ‘Main Street of America,’ was the perfect setting for Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket to rise to fame. Travelers, whether on leisurely road trips or cross-country adventures, found solace in the restaurant’s hearty meals.
The establishment became a beloved pitstop, offering not just sustenance but a slice of Americana. Diners enjoyed meals on checkered tablecloths, surrounded by neon signs and Route 66 memorabilia, creating a nostalgic and welcoming atmosphere.
This location offered patrons more than just food; it provided stories and memories. Visitors often left with full bellies and a sense of having participated in something uniquely American. The Chicken Basket’s fusion of history, culture, and cuisine along this iconic route made it a staple for generations of travelers.
5. Dell Rhea Carried the Torch
In the 1960s, a visionary businessman named Dell Rhea saw potential in the flourishing establishment. Recognizing the unique charm and flavor of the Chicken Basket, he acquired it and infused it with new energy.
Under his stewardship, the restaurant continued to thrive, maintaining the original recipes and atmosphere that patrons loved. Dell Rhea’s hands-on approach ensured that the establishment retained its authenticity while expanding its reach.
His commitment to quality and tradition made the Chicken Basket a household name, synonymous with exceptional fried chicken. Dell Rhea’s legacy is celebrated with each customer served, reflecting his dedication to preserving what made the restaurant special. His stewardship not only safeguarded a culinary gem but also cemented its place in local history.
6. It’s Been Featured on TV
National recognition came knocking when the Food Network’s ‘Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives’ featured Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket. This spotlight introduced a wider audience to its celebrated flavors and storied past.
The show’s host marveled at the expertly crafted fried chicken, highlighting the meticulous preparation and secret recipe. The segment showcased not just the food but the establishment’s unique charm and dedication to tradition.
Viewers were captivated by the combination of history and taste, leading to an influx of curious diners. The television appearance affirmed what locals already knew: the Chicken Basket was a must-visit destination. This media coverage added another chapter to its legacy, bridging the gap between past and present, and inviting new generations to partake in its culinary delights.
7. The Chicken Still Steals the Show
Decades may have passed, but the fried chicken remains the main attraction at Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket. Crispy, golden, and perfectly seasoned, it’s a dish that continues to captivate diners.
Accompanied by classic comfort sides, each meal offers a taste of nostalgia and home-cooked goodness. The recipe, unchanged for nearly 100 years, speaks to the perfection achieved long ago.
This culinary masterpiece not only satisfies the palate but also tells a story of tradition, passion, and community. With every serving, diners experience a piece of history, a testament to the idea that some things are just too good to change. The Chicken Basket stands as a monument to consistency and quality, beloved by locals and travelers alike.
