Youngblood’s Fried Chicken – Crisp and Juicy for 39 Years

Youngblood’s Fried Chicken was founded by J. T. Youngblood, a poultry farmer from Waco, Texas. Youngblood opened his first restaurant in Waco in 1940, and soon expanded to other cities in Texas. By the 1960s, Youngblood’s had over 30 locations throughout the state.

The Menu

Youngblood’s fried chicken was known for its crispy batter and juicy meat. The chain also offered a variety of other dishes, including fried fish, mashed potatoes, and green beans. Youngblood’s was a popular destination for families and friends, and the restaurants were often crowded on weekends.

Competition in Texas

These were the days before KFC, Church’s, and Popeye’s. In Texas, Youngblood’s competitors were Leslie’s Chicken Shack and in Houston, Bill Williams Chicken House. In fact, There was a Youngblood’s in Houston on the same street, just a few blocks down, from Bill Williams.

Here is a comparison of the three restaurants:

Youngblood’s Fried Chicken

Fresh, never-frozen chicken
Fried in peanut oil
Cooked to perfection
Juicy and flavorful
Most popular fried chicken restaurant in Texas in the 1960s and 1970s

Bill Williams Chicken House

Special recipe
Fried in vegetable oil
Juicy and flavorful
Popular fried chicken restaurant in Houston

Leslie’s Chicken Shack

Special recipe
Fried in vegetable oil
Juicy and flavorful
Popular fried chicken restaurant in Waco

Changes then Closure

The chain was owned by J.T. Youngblood and his family until 1969, when it was sold to a group of investors. The investors expanded the chain to other states, including Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. However, the chain struggled financially in the 1970s, and it closed its last restaurant in 1979.

All of this intrastate rivalry didn’t matter in the long run. Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), Church’s, and Popeye’s were some of the national fast food chains that spelled doom to the Texas trio. People opted for a faster and cheaper meal. It is always a matter of debate as to which chicken tasted the best.