Fowl Play Hot Chicken — Restaurant in Gallatin

If you’d told me I’d be writing a glowing review about a chicken sandwich, I would’ve laughed, rolled my eyes, and ordered a burger just to spite you. You see, I’m not really a “chicken” person. To me, chicken has always been that safe but boring choice, like wearing khakis to a party. Functional, sure. Exciting? Not a chance.

But then, Foul Play Hot Chicken in Gallatin, Tennessee, came into my life, and let me tell you, my world was rocked. This wasn’t just a chicken sandwich—it was a masterpiece, a life-changing experience, a borderline spiritual awakening.

Let’s start with the first bite. You know how in the movies, when someone tastes something amazing, the world slows down and music starts playing? That’s what happened. I swear, I heard angels sing. The chicken was crispy but not greasy, with a golden, crunchy exterior that could have its own Instagram account. Beneath that glorious crust was the juiciest, most tender chicken I’ve ever tasted. It wasn’t just cooked—it was crafted.

And the spice level? Oh, they know what they’re doing. Foul Play lets you choose your heat, and I went for the middle ground because I’m not trying to die, but I still want to feel alive. The flavor hit me first—a perfect blend of smoky, savory, and just a whisper of sweetness—and then the heat snuck in like a ninja, leaving me reaching for my drink but in the best way possible. It’s the kind of heat that makes you sweat a little but keeps you coming back for more.

Now, let’s talk toppings. This sandwich came fully dressed, but not in an overwhelming “What am I even eating?” way. The slaw was tangy and fresh, a perfect counterbalance to the spice. The pickles were snappy and bright, cutting through the richness like a refreshing little exclamation point. And the bun? Oh, the bun. Soft, buttery, and toasted just right—it held everything together without overshadowing the main event.

Here’s the kicker: I don’t even like chicken that much. I’m the person who politely picks at chicken wings at parties and pretends to enjoy it. But this? I devoured this sandwich like it was my last meal on Earth. I didn’t just eat it; I inhaled it. I considered ordering another one on the spot, but I didn’t want the staff to think I was unhinged (even though I totally am when it comes to this sandwich).

Foul Play Hot Chicken has done the impossible. They’ve turned a chicken skeptic into a full-blown believer. If this sandwich were a cult, I’d sign up. If this sandwich ran for office, it’d have my vote. Honestly, I might move to Gallatin just to be closer to this sandwich.

So, if you’re anywhere near Gallatin, do yourself a favor: run, don’t walk, to Foul Play Hot Chicken. Order the sandwich. Savor it. And then join me in wondering how you ever lived without it.

Five stars, two thumbs up, and a standing ovation. Bravo, Foul...

Listen. Let me tell you about my new favorite place in Gallatin. First, let me start with the service. Grace was the epitome of her name. Just a kind spirit that put love into everything she did and took the time to walk me through their expansive menu. I ended up ordering the tenders meal, mild with 2 sides of greens!

While I was waiting, a woman came in to place a to go order, and we ended up chatting. This was her 3rd day in a row coming to this gem! She raved over the smash burger, sidewinder fries, and tenders. I believed every word she said and was not disappointed.

I didnt even wait until I got home, and let me just say, by the time I remembered to take a picture, I had already devoured half of a tender and half of the side of greens! The tenders are meaty, juicy, crispy, and delicious. The 1st base heat left me with a slight tingle on my lips, and it wasn't all heat bc the flavor/seasonings kept me coming back for more. My greens were chocked full of turkey and are hands down some of the best I've ever had, and I've eaten delicious food from some amazing soul food chefs before.

I didn't order a drink bc they didn't have the pineapple tea that I wanted, and Grace was so kind as to bring out a blue kool-aid with my order! Let me tell you, I wouldn't have normally ordered Kool-Aid, but love, it was the perfect drink to tame the tingle from the spice of those tenders. I can't say enough great things about this place, or about the owner. I will be a regular, and I look forward to trying more of the menu, as there are so many great options. For a mere $13, you would be doing yourself a favor to give this place a try!

Grace, if you read this, I hope you are already looking for a bigger place because once this secret gets out, you're going to need it! Thank you so much for the delicious food, but even more so for the warm welcome and the hospitality that you showed me.

I hope to see...

Wow!

I had the Tender Meal, which comes with 3 tenders and two sides. I got the 3rd Base heat level (hot) and the Sidewinder Steak Fries and Potato Salad as my sides. I also got to try their homemade Mango Tea.

The Sidewinder Steak Fries were great! They were a bit like potato wedges, but better I thought. Came out with that perfect amount of crisp. The potato salad tasted super fresh and very flavorful. It's going to be really tough to choose sides going forward, because these were both great and all the others sound like they will be awesome too! The tenders were incredible, not just in flavor, but that heat was up there! When I placed my order, they told me that 3rd Base is really hot and wanted to make sure I was aware. I eat spicy food pretty regularly and will usually get the hottest or close to it at most Hot Chicken restaurants, and I would put 3rd Base above some places hottest so the heat was definitely there. It isn't just all heat, the flavor was great, and was cooked perfectly, with a nice bit of crunch on the outside and juicy on the inside. Also, I have to shout out the Mango Tea, it was absolutely perfect way to cap off that meal. Everything was and is cooked to order, so it comes out hot and fresh.

I am super excited about Fowl Play Hot Chicken! They're the only hot chicken focused restaurant in Gallatin that I know of, and they are about 10 minutes from me, so will definitely be returning often. I think anyone who is a fan of hot chicken should come...