Peruvian chicken in the D.C. metro area is just about as touchy a subject as it gets. Religious ponderings and political debates can expect to take a back seat when it comes to defending rotisserie chicken loyalties. Everyone has their favorite, which is why the opinion herein is bound to receive adulation from some and harsh criticism from others. That being said, I am officially declaring my allegiance to El Pollo Rico.

Sure, Super Pollo offers a choice of sides, Chix’s menu is 50% organic, and Pollo Campero has greater accessibility, but none quite live up to the reputation of EPR. Keeping the competitor bashing to a minimum – Super’s birds are over seasoned (though not a bad thing for those with high salt tolerances), Chix’s fowl are under seasoned and pricey (compared to other chicken joints), and Campero usually calls for several antacids after a greasy wrestle with their fried poultry. All are good in their own right, but not outstanding.

Then there’s El Pollo Rico. The Michael Jordan (pre-Wizards) of the chicken world.