Haven Hot Chicken: A Heavenly Taste Experience

There is a hot chicken chain called Haven Hot Chicken that is quickly spreading across New England. Haven has a cult-like following all over Connecticut because it focuses on using high-quality ingredients, making specialty sauces, and giving great customer service. The other day I had the chance to try this delicious hot chicken, and I wanted to tell you why it’s some of the best hot chicken out there.

A Heavenly Origin Story

Haven Hot Chicken began as a single food truck in Fairfield, CT, in 2017. Its founder, Jason Sobocinski, grew up in Nashville, which is where hot chicken originated, and wanted to bring a taste of his home state up to the north. The food truck was such a hit that Haven quickly grew into a restaurant in Fairfield in 2018.

Has Haven opened 8 more stores in CT since then? They don’t seem to be slowing down any time soon. The number of people who want to try their Nashville-style hot chicken has been through the roof. I’ve even heard that they might be expanding to other states in the future!

Food That’s Hot and Heavenly

As a spicy food lover, I was immediately intrigued when I first heard about Haven. Hot chicken is traditionally chicken that gets spiced and deep fried, resulting in chicken with some serious heat. Haven offers bone-in or boneless fried chicken pieces with your choice of 7 spice levels ranging from no spice to the extreme “Burn Notice.”

The chicken arrives beautifully breaded and glistening – before you even take a bite, you know this is gonna be good! I got a medium spice, and with the first bite I knew this was hot chicken perfection. The heat built slowly, letting the flavors shine rather than overwhelm. The chicken was perfectly juicy and tender inside with an ultra crispy outside.

But it’s not just about the spice – the flavor really sets Haven apart. Jason uses a custom blend of seasoning that likely includes cayenne and other peppers. There’s also a hint of sweetness that balances beautifully with the heat.

Haven takes it to the next level by offering 9 distinct sauce flavors you can add on top, like honey sriracha, lemon pepper ranch, or “The Haven” sauce which has a smoky, tangy flavor. The sauces complement the chicken so well and let you customize your spice level even further. A sandwich option is also available to get your chicken between two buns.

Heavenly Sides and Extras

No hot chicken meal is complete without some sides. Haven offers southern-inspired classics like mac and cheese, collard greens, and baked beans. The sides are just as skillfully executed as the main event. My favorite was the mac and cheese – creamy, cheesy perfection with crispy bits on top.

Haven also serves chicken sandwiches, salads, chicken tenders, and even chicken and waffles. Not to worry, vegetarians! You can get cauliflower “hot chikn” made the same way the real thing is. Kids and people who don’t like spicy food will like that they can get chicken tenders with little or no spice.

And saving room for dessert is a must with options like banana pudding, cookies, and brownies that provide the perfect sweet finish.

Heavenly Service in a Hip Setting

Beyond the phenomenal food, the overall experience at Haven makes it a heavenly dining choice. As soon as you walk in, you notice the cool, hip vibe – the restaurants feel energetic and fun. The staff is incredibly friendly, patiently explaining the spice levels and sauces to Haven newcomers.

The restaurants are all brightly lit fast-casual spaces with big communal tables. You go up and order at the counter, get your food in minutes, and find a spot. It feels laid-back and unfussy. The restaurants also have fun chicken-themed decor, lively music, and sometimes a custom mural featuring famous people eating hot chicken. It all comes together to create a one-of-a-kind environment.

Spreading the Hot Chicken Gospel

It’s clear that Haven’s founders have a true passion for hot chicken and want to spread the love. From using high-quality ingredients to offering customizable spice levels, they make hot chicken accessible to everyone. The rampant growth shows just how eagerly people are devouring this heavenly spicy fare.

If you live in CT or are visiting the area, you need to get your hands on this hot chicken. Trust me, you’ll understand why Haven has developed such a passionate following after just one bite. It’s the perfect place for a casual meal with friends or to grab takeout for a flavorful night in. Haven brings the thrill of Nashville hot chicken in a way that honors tradition while also adding unique touches.

This is hot chicken so heavenly that I wish it could be my last meal on earth – and I have a feeling Haven will continue rising in popularity to spread hot chicken joy across the region and beyond. Once you try it, you too may find yourself addicted to this heavenly heat!