If you live in the South, you know the truth: The best fried chicken in town isn’t at a fast-food chain—it’s at the grocery store.
The Publix Deli hot bar has a fan following that borders on obsession.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or dinner for the family, these are the standout favorites that keep customers coming back week after week.
1. The “Holy Trinity” Tender Meal / Price: Approx. $9.99
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This is the undisputed king of the deli. The classic combination features three crispy, hand-breaded chicken tenders served alongside seasoned potato wedges and a side of creamy mac & cheese, creating the ultimate comfort food meal.
2. Bacon & Cheese Stuffed Potato Tots / Price: Varies by weight (Approx. $9.99/lb)
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A massive upgrade to the standard tater tot, these golden-fried “potato kegs” are stuffed with melted cheddar cheese and real bacon bits, making them a decadent side dish that pairs perfectly with any chicken order.
3. Mojo Pork Dinner / Price: Approx. $9.99
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A flavorful alternative to fried food, this slow-roasted pork is marinated in citrus and garlic until it is tender enough to fall apart. It pairs exceptionally well when mixed with rice or mashed potatoes for a savory, hearty dinner.
4. Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese / Price: Approx. $5.49/lb
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Publix elevates the standard deli side by using smoked Gouda cheese, giving this mac & cheese a rich, sophisticated flavor profile and extra creaminess that sets it apart from traditional cheddar versions.
5. Popcorn Chicken / Price: Approx. $9.99/lb
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These bite-sized pieces of fried joy offer all the flavor of the famous tenders in a snackable format. They remain juicy on the inside while maintaining a crispy exterior, making them a perfect grab-and-go option for road trips or parties.
6. Spicy Gold or Sweet Sriracha Wings / Price: Approx. $9.49 (10-piece)
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While the breaded wings are a classic, the glazed varieties like Spicy Gold and Hot Honey offer a sticky, sweet-and-spicy finish that adds a modern twist to the traditional deli wing selection.
7. Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders / Price: Approx. $9.99/lb
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For those who prefer a kick, these tenders are glazed in a spicy oil blend rather than just dry breading, delivering a lingering heat that offers a bolder flavor experience than the original recipe.
8. Corn Nuggets / Price: Approx. $6.99/lb
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A unique Southern staple, these are sweet, creamed corn battered and deep-fried into golden nuggets. They offer a delightful contrast of sweet filling and savory crunch that tastes like dessert but counts as a vegetable side.
9. Seasoned Potato Wedges / Price: Approx. $4.49/lb
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Often purchased by the bagful, these wedges are famous for their heavy seasoning and perfect texture—crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside—making them one of the most popular items in the entire hot case.
10. The Chicken Tender Sub (Pub Sub) / Price: Approx. $10.49 (Regular) / $8.49 (Sale)
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The single most famous item at the deli involves taking the hot tenders, chopping them up, and often tossing them in Buffalo sauce before loading them onto a fresh roll with your choice of toppings for a legendary sandwich experience.
