Bold flavors, golden crunch, and a flavor profile you won't find anywhere else in Orange County. Every bite tells a story.
From signature chicken platters to tropical-inspired sides, every dish is crafted to deliver maximum flavor in every bite.
Our trademark fried chicken — double-dipped, extra crunchy, and seasoned with a proprietary spice blend that keeps people coming back.
Sweet, smoky, and tangy — our pineapple glaze is the star of the show. Tossed over perfectly fried chicken for a flavor explosion.
Choose your heat level. Our sauce lineup ranges from mild and tangy to full-on fire — paired with crispy fries or coleslaw.
Coconut rice, plantain mash, sweet corn, and more — sides that complement your main with island-inspired flavor profiles.
Feed the whole crew. Our combo platters come loaded with chicken, two sides, and tortillas — built for sharing.
Horchata, jamaica, fresh-squeezed juices, and tropical sodas — the perfect refreshment to balance the heat.
Pineapple Express By Chicken Charlie's was born from a simple idea: what if fried chicken carried the warmth of the tropics? Every recipe in our kitchen blends Southern-style crunch with bold island flavors — a combination you won't find anywhere else in Costa Mesa.
We source fresh ingredients daily, prepare everything in-house, and refuse to cut corners. Whether you're grabbing a quick dinner or planning a family gathering, we treat every order like it's the first one — and the last one.
"The pineapple glaze chicken is unlike anything I've ever had. Perfectly crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and that sweet-savory glaze is addictive. This is now our go-to Friday night dinner."
"Finally, a spot in Costa Mesa that does chicken right. The fire wings are seriously fire, and the coconut rice side is the best I've had. Fast service and friendly staff too."
"We ordered the family combo for a gathering and everyone was asking where we found this place. The portions are huge, the flavors are bold, and the horchata is perfect. Highly recommend!"
Conveniently located on Fair Drive — easy to find, easy to park, impossible to forget.
88 Fair Dr
Costa Mesa, CA 92626-6521
Monday – Sunday
11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Come taste what Costa Mesa is talking about. Order by phone or stop by — we're ready when you are.
