Carter’s Fried Chicken in Nashville is a beloved culinary destination known for its authentic, Southern-style fried chicken that captivates locals and visitors alike. Nestled in the heart of Music City, this restaurant has carved out a niche by combining traditional cooking methods with bold, flavorful seasonings that pay homage to classic Southern comfort food.
The menu reflects a deep respect for quality ingredients and time-honored recipes, making every bite a memorable experience.
Whether you’re craving a juicy, crispy chicken piece or looking to explore creative sides and sauces, Carter’s Fried Chicken offers a rich and diverse selection. The menu’s variety ensures there’s something for every palate—ranging from spicy heat to mild and savory flavors.
Each item is thoughtfully crafted to provide a perfect balance of taste, texture, and presentation.
Beyond just food, the atmosphere and service at Carter’s Fried Chicken add another layer of charm, inviting guests to savor their meals in a warm, welcoming environment. The menu reflects this ethos, promising both comfort and excitement with every order.
Discovering Carter’s Fried Chicken menu is like embarking on a flavorful journey through the heart of Nashville’s culinary heritage.
Signature Fried Chicken Offerings
The heart of Carter’s Fried Chicken menu lies in its signature fried chicken, which is renowned for its crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat inside. This section showcases the variety of chicken preparations that have made Carter’s a go-to spot for fried chicken enthusiasts.
Each piece of chicken is hand-breaded with a proprietary blend of spices before being fried to golden perfection. The seasoning strikes a delicate balance between savory and slightly spicy notes, enhancing the natural flavors without overpowering them.
Guests can choose from several cuts and styles, including traditional bone-in pieces and boneless options, making it easy to customize the meal according to preference. The consistently high quality and attention to detail have earned Carter’s a reputation as one of Nashville’s premier fried chicken establishments.
Classic Fried Chicken
The Classic Fried Chicken features skin-on, bone-in pieces that retain their natural juices, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. This option is perfect for those who appreciate tradition and simplicity done right.
- Available in quarter, half, and whole chicken servings
- Hand-breaded with a secret seasoning blend
- Served with your choice of dipping sauces
“The classic fried chicken at Carter’s is an homage to Southern roots—crispy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying.”
Boneless Chicken Tenders
For those who prefer a more convenient option, the Boneless Chicken Tenders provide the same great taste without the bones. These tenders are marinated, breaded, and fried to maintain moisture and crunch.
- Perfect for dipping in a variety of house-made sauces
- Available in mild, spicy, and extra spicy heat levels
- Great for sharing or as a quick meal
Spicy Fried Chicken
The Spicy Fried Chicken elevates the traditional recipe with an added kick. This version is ideal for those who enjoy bold flavors and a bit of heat.
- Coated in a special spicy seasoning mix
- Balanced heat that complements the chicken’s natural flavor
- Option to customize spice level on request
Delicious Side Dishes
Carter’s Fried Chicken doesn’t just shine with its main dishes; the sides are equally impressive and crafted to complement the rich flavors of the chicken. Offering a variety of traditional Southern sides, the menu ensures a well-rounded dining experience.
The sides include classics like creamy mashed potatoes, crisp coleslaw, and buttery cornbread, all prepared fresh daily. Each side dish adds its own texture and flavor contrast to the meal, balancing indulgence with freshness.
Many sides incorporate homemade elements, such as hand-cut fries and scratch-made sauces, which elevate the overall quality. These sides are designed to pair perfectly with the fried chicken, creating harmonious taste combinations.
Mashed Potatoes & Gravy
The Mashed Potatoes & Gravy are a staple side that offers a smooth, buttery texture topped with savory, rich gravy. This pairing is a comforting favorite among customers and a perfect counterbalance to the crispy chicken.
- Made daily using fresh potatoes
- Gravy prepared from scratch with a robust flavor
- Pairs well with both classic and spicy chicken
Classic Coleslaw
The Classic Coleslaw at Carter’s is crisp, tangy, and lightly sweetened, providing a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of fried chicken. It’s a perfect palate cleanser and adds a bright flavor to the plate.
- Freshly shredded cabbage and carrots
- Mixed with a creamy, yet light dressing
- Balances out heavier menu items
Cornbread Muffins
The Cornbread Muffins are moist, slightly sweet, and buttery, embodying Southern baking traditions. Served warm, they make an excellent side or snack on their own.
- Baked fresh daily with real butter
- Offers a mild sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes
- Available in individual or basket servings
Flavorful Sauces and Dips
Sauces are essential to elevating the fried chicken experience at Carter’s. The menu features a variety of house-made dips that range from tangy to spicy, allowing guests to customize each bite to their liking.
Each sauce is crafted to complement the crispy chicken, enhancing flavor without overwhelming the palate. From classic ranch to smoky barbecue, the sauce selection caters to a broad spectrum of tastes.
These sauces also serve as excellent accompaniments for the side dishes, creating versatile pairings that enhance the overall meal. The quality and variety of sauces reflect Carter’s commitment to a complete and satisfying dining experience.
Honey Mustard
Honey Mustard offers a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken’s savory crust. Its smooth texture makes it a favorite for dipping both chicken and sides.
- Balanced blend of mustard sharpness and honey sweetness
- Perfect for mild flavor lovers
- Great with both tenders and wings
Spicy Buffalo
The Spicy Buffalo sauce delivers a fiery kick with a vinegar-based tang that excites the taste buds. This sauce is ideal for heat seekers who want to add some zest to their meal.
- Classic Buffalo flavor with a moderate heat level
- Pairs well with boneless tenders and wings
- Can be adjusted to extra spicy upon request
BBQ Sauce
The BBQ Sauce at Carter’s is smoky, sweet, and slightly tangy, crafted to complement the fried chicken’s crispy coating without overpowering it. It’s a traditional Southern barbecue flavor that appeals to many.
- Smoky undertones with a touch of sweetness
- Enhances the savory notes of the chicken
- Also pairs well with cornbread and fries
Family Meals and Platters
Carter’s Fried Chicken offers family-sized meals and platters designed to feed groups conveniently while providing a variety of flavors and sides. These options are perfect for gatherings, parties, or when you simply want to share a hearty meal with loved ones.
Family meals typically include multiple pieces of chicken, an assortment of sides, and sauces, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience. These platters emphasize value without sacrificing quality.
By offering customizable options, Carter’s allows guests to tailor family meals to their preferences, accommodating different tastes and dietary needs effectively.
Classic Family Feast
The Classic Family Feast includes a selection of bone-in fried chicken pieces paired with two large sides and a basket of cornbread. This meal is crafted to serve four to six people comfortably.
- Choice of classic or spicy chicken
- Two large side dishes included
- Variety of sauces provided
Boneless Platter
The Boneless Platter features a generous portion of boneless chicken tenders served alongside fries and coleslaw. This option is perfect for those who prefer ease of eating without bones.
- Serves three to four people
- Includes dipping sauces
- Great for casual get-togethers
| Family Meal | Includes | Serves | Price Range |
| Classic Family Feast | 10 pieces chicken, 2 large sides, cornbread | 4-6 people | $45 – $55 |
| Boneless Platter | 15 tenders, fries, coleslaw, sauces | 3-4 people | $40 – $50 |
Dessert Selections
To round out the meal, Carter’s Fried Chicken offers a delightful selection of desserts that provide a sweet finish without overshadowing the savory main dishes. These treats are inspired by Southern classics and are made fresh daily.
The dessert menu includes options like warm peach cobbler, rich chocolate cake, and traditional banana pudding. Each dessert pairs well with the hearty main courses and offers a comforting conclusion to the meal.
These desserts are perfect for sharing or enjoying solo and reflect the restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition in every aspect of the dining experience.
Peach Cobbler
Peach Cobbler is a Southern staple featuring sweet, spiced peaches baked under a golden crust. Served warm, it’s a perfect complement to the savory meal.
- Made with fresh peaches and cinnamon
- Topped with a flaky, buttery crust
- Can be served with vanilla ice cream upon request
Banana Pudding
The Banana Pudding offers a creamy and nostalgic dessert experience. Layers of vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and vanilla wafers create a rich yet light finish.
- Classic recipe with real bananas
- Light and creamy texture
- Served chilled
Chocolate Cake
The Chocolate Cake is a moist, decadent option for chocolate lovers. It’s rich but balanced, providing a satisfying end to any meal.
- Frosted with creamy chocolate icing
- Perfectly moist crumb
- Available in slices or as mini cakes
Beverage Options
Carter’s Fried Chicken complements its food offerings with a thoughtfully curated beverage menu. These drinks are selected to enhance the overall dining experience and cater to a variety of tastes.
The beverage selection includes traditional Southern favorites like sweet tea and lemonade, alongside sodas and bottled water. Each beverage is prepared or sourced to ensure freshness and quality.
The drink options are designed to refresh and cleanse the palate, balancing the richness of the fried chicken and sides while keeping guests hydrated and satisfied.
Sweet Tea
Sweet Tea is a quintessential Southern drink, perfectly brewed and sweetened, making it a natural pairing with the savory menu items. It’s served chilled and fresh daily.
- Classic Southern recipe
- Refreshing and slightly sweet
- Available in regular and large sizes
Lemonade
The Lemonade offers a bright, tart contrast to the meal’s richness. Made with fresh lemons and just the right amount of sweetness, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
- Freshly squeezed lemons
- Lightly sweetened for balance
- Served over ice
Soda and Bottled Water
Carter’s also provides a variety of sodas and bottled water for guests who prefer classic carbonated beverages or a neutral refreshment.
- Popular soda brands available
- Bottled water served chilled
- Great for pairing with any meal option
Special Dietary and Catering Options
Carter’s Fried Chicken recognizes the diverse needs of its customers, offering special dietary accommodations and catering services. This commitment ensures everyone can enjoy their flavorful offerings.
The menu includes gluten-conscious options and customizable spice levels to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences. Staff are knowledgeable and ready to assist with specific requests to ensure a pleasant and safe dining experience.
For larger events, Carter’s provides catering packages that bring their signature Southern flavors to private parties and corporate gatherings. These services are customizable, designed to fit the scale and style of any event.
Gluten-Conscious Choices
Gluten-Conscious Choices are available for guests who need to avoid gluten but still want to enjoy the delicious taste of Carter’s offerings. These items are prepared with care to minimize cross-contamination.
- Boneless tenders available with gluten-conscious breading
- Fresh vegetable sides and coleslaw
- Clear labeling for easy identification
Catering Services
The Catering Services offered by Carter’s Fried Chicken make it easy to host flavorful events without the hassle of cooking. Customized menus and flexible package sizes are available to suit various occasions.
- Options for family-style platters and individual meals
- Delivery and setup services available
- Experienced staff to assist with menu planning
“Carter’s catering brings the taste of Nashville’s best fried chicken directly to your event, ensuring a memorable and delicious experience for all guests.”
Conclusion
Carter’s Fried Chicken in Nashville offers a menu that expertly captures the essence of Southern comfort food with a modern twist. From their signature crispy fried chicken to an array of thoughtfully prepared sides, sauces, and desserts, each item reflects a dedication to quality, flavor, and tradition.
The diversity of options ensures that every guest can find something to delight their palate, whether they prefer classic tastes or crave a bit of spice.
The restaurant’s commitment to fresh, hand-prepared dishes and accommodating dietary needs makes it a standout choice for both casual diners and families. Additionally, the availability of family meals and catering services extends the experience beyond the restaurant, bringing these beloved flavors to larger gatherings and celebrations.
In every bite, Carter’s Fried Chicken delivers a true taste of Nashville’s rich culinary heritage, making it not just a meal but an experience to savor and remember. Whether you’re a local or visiting Music City, exploring the Carter’s menu is an essential part of enjoying the city’s vibrant food scene.
