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Onward Debate: Which Venue Has Penn State’s Best Chicken Basket?

There is nothing like eating a chicken basket during a Penn State football game. This simple dish has become a Beaver Stadium staple over the years, but it doesn’t stop there.

Other Penn State venues and arenas have also adopted the famous meal in their concession stands. Out of all of them, the chicken baskets at Pegula Ice Arena have caught our eye and sparked the question, “Which one has the better chicken baskets?”

A few of our staffers wrote in to share their thoughts.

Frankie Marzano: Pegula Ice Arena

Folks, hear me out. The chicken baskets in Pegula Ice Arena are simply the best. Beaver Stadium chicken baskets are like your typical Kraft mac and cheese; it’s a classic. On the other hand, Pegula’s chicken baskets are like making the mac and cheese from scratch, adding breadcrumbs, and baking it. It doesn’t have the classic feel that Kraft has, but it’s obviously better. The chicken is fresher, more crispy, and there’s something about the fries that makes them superior. Next time y’all are watching a men’s or women’s hockey game at Pegula, give the basket a try. You’ll be happy that you did.

Matt DiSanto: Beaver Stadium

How is this a question? Play a word association game with any Penn Stater, and they’ll say “chicken basket” when you say “Beaver Stadium”.

Pegula’s chicken baskets are fantastic, and I won’t slander them. However, Beaver Stadium’s version wins out thanks to its nostalgia factor. Plus, a warm chicken basket just hits differently when you’re chowing down at a cold football game. The heat from your meal warms you up and gives you the energy to keep fighting through a blistery afternoon at Beaver Stadium. Sure, Pegula’s a little chilly, but it’s got nothing on a Rutgers game in late November.

Chicken baskets are a quintessential part of the Penn State experience, and they’re best served at Beaver Stadium.


Well, where do you find your favorite chicken basket at Penn State? Is there an unmentioned venue that tops Pegula and Beaver Stadium? Let us know in the comments!

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Staff

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