Few restaurants along historic Route 66 inspire people to make a special trip just for a plate of fried chicken. Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket in Willowbrook, Illinois, has spent decades building a reputation around its legendary chicken dinners, earning loyal fans from across the state and beyond.
While its deep Route 66 roots and classic roadside charm remain part of the appeal, the food is what keeps people coming back. Generous portions, comforting sides, and a dining room filled with history have turned this longtime favorite into one of Illinois’ most beloved restaurant destinations. Whether you’re exploring the Mother Road or simply chasing a great meal, Dell Rhea’s continues to justify the drive.
The Route 66 Roadside Scene That Still Stops Traffic
On Joliet Road in Willowbrook, Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket announces itself the way a true roadside place should: clearly, confidently, and without trying to look polished for social media.
The building sits right along the old Route 66 corridor, carrying the kind of visibility that matters when a restaurant grew up serving drivers instead of trend hunters…