Fried chicken is a staple that is universally loved by many cultures, each incorporating their own unique twist to it. Zhengxin Chicken Steak offers an authentic taste of Taiwanese street food that encapsulates the bold, tangy flavor of crispy chicken steak. The chain was first established in 2000, and has become a major Chinese fast food chain known for its flagship product, the Spicy Chicken Steak. One of its locations was recently opened in Flushing, accessible to Townsend Harris students via the Q44, Q20A, or Q20B buses to Main Street. When you arrive at the storefront, you are greeted with a statue of Zhengxin’s super character, the “Chicken King.” The mascot is both cute and confident, featuring a majestic crown and cape. Inside the restaurant are a few barstools lined against the wall and beside the window as countertop seating options. This location also offers kiosk ordering for added convenience. The wait time for our order was relatively short, taking around  five to ten minutes. The restaurant offers a vibrant and modern ambiance with chicken-themed decor and a red and yellow color scheme.

Spicy Chicken Steak (S) Combo 1 – Plum Powder
Critic Rating: 10/10

Combo 1 includes Spicy Chicken Steak and iced lemon tea. The Spicy Chicken Steak features a marinated chicken breast cutlet coated in panko breadcrumbs. It has a crunchy exterior, covered in plum powder. The restaurant also offers other powder options, including original and cumin flavors, allowing customers to customize their experience. The chicken has the perfect balance of crunch and spice, with a hint of sweetness from the plum powder. The bold and flavorful seasoning offers a satisfying heat that complements the chicken’s natural taste.

This chicken was life-changing and has become my favorite. The perfectly crunchy and generously seasoned exterior revealed the tender chicken on the inside. I think that for the quality, size, and cost you receive from Combo 1, this chicken is definitely worth it.

Iced Lemon Tea
Critic Rating: 8/10

Along with the chicken steak, the iced lemon tea in the combo came right away. True to its name, the drink came with a lemon slice inside the cup alongside sweet tea. The two flavors mixed together create a tangy and tart drink that pairs perfectly with the chicken. The tea flavoring was sweet, but the addition of the lemon helped create a more distinct and unique flavor.

I will note that it was a little difficult to get the straw through the lid and required a little more strength compared to, for example, putting straws through a bubble tea lid.

For the price combined with the chicken, the size of the cup and amount of the actual tea was generous, as I had some extra even after finishing the chicken.

ZHENGXIN Chicken Steak is most certainly a hidden gem within Flushing. For fried chicken especially, their prices are jaw dropping, considering their generous portions and delicious flavoring. Their chicken is freshly made and has a unique mix of spices to create a kick in flavor that won’t be found in many other fried chicken restaurants. If you’re ever hungry and on Main Street, stop by for a quick and filling meal.