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best italian restaurants in charlotte 2025: where to find authentic pizza, pasta & chicken

Discover Charlotte’s Italian-Inspired Chicken Dining Scene

Charlotte's culinary scene continues to flourish, and Italian cuisine is getting a flavorful twist—thanks to a lineup of restaurants that go beyond traditional pizza and pasta by spotlighting delicious Italian-style chicken dishes. Whether you’re searching for the perfect wood-fired wings, golden tenders or chicken breast parmigiana, this guide will help you explore some of Charlotte’s standout Italian-inspired spots that bring the comfort and boldness of Italian flavors to every bite. Bonus: Every restaurant featured serves your favorite Springer Mountain Farms chicken! 

In this guide, you'll discover:

  • 4 must-visit Italian-inspired restaurants in Charlotte
  • Signature dishes featuring Springer Mountain Farms Chicken and Italian-style specialties
  • Ideal spots for date nights, groups, and family meals
  • Tips for recreating Italian chicken dishes at home

Charlotte’s Best Italian Chicken Restaurants (2024–2025)

1. Mama Ricotta’s – Classic Italian Comfort with Premium Chicken Breasts

Location: 601 S. Kings Dr., Charlotte, NC
Specialties: Italian chicken entrees, wood-fired classics, house-made sauces
Best For: Family dining, hearty Italian-style meals

Mama Ricotta’s is a longtime Charlotte favorite reimagining Italian comfort food with high-quality chicken dishes. Whether you’re ordering their signature chicken parmesan or exploring house-made sauces over rigatoni, it’s a must for anyone seeking Italian flavors with a Southern twist.

Must-Try Dish:
Chicken parmigiana featuring Springer Mountain Farms Chicken Breasts with rich marinara and mozzarella

Why Visit:
Traditional Italian feel with dependable quality and big portions—ideal for families and Sunday dinners.

Follow: @mammaricottas 

2. Little Mama’s – Retro Italian with Modern Vibes

Location: 4521 Sharon Rd., Charlotte, NC
Specialties: Crispy chicken tenders, Italian sandwiches, pasta with protein options
Best For: Lunch, casual date nights, family outings

Little Mama’s delivers a throwback Italian-American vibe with modern flavors. Chicken tenders and juicy chicken breasts star in several menu items, from chicken Milanese sandwiches to creamy Alfredo pastas.

Must-Try Dish:
Crispy chicken tenders tossed in garlic-parmesan herb butter

Why Visit:
A casual, fun environment that’s perfect for sharing large plates and indulging in nostalgic flavors.

Follow: @littlemammasitalian

3. Sorrento Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant (Statesville) – Neighborhood Italian in Western North Carolina

Location: 311 Brookdale Dr., Statesville, NC
Specialties: Pizza, baked pastas, chicken entrees
Best For: Neighborhood dining, Italian cravings on a budget

Sorrento serves up reliable Italian comfort with standout chicken dishes that win over locals. Think chicken marsala, piccata, and parmigiana—all made fresh to order.

Must-Try Dish:
Chicken marsala featuring Springer Mountain Farms Chicken Breast, sautéed mushrooms and sweet wine sauce

Why Visit:
Perfect for locals and visitors in search of hearty, homemade Italian meals with generous portions.

4. Stone Fired Social (Belmont) – Wood-Fired Wings with Italian Flair

Location: 115 N. Main St., Belmont, NC
Specialties: Brick-oven pizza, Italian-style wings, cocktails
Best For: Group gatherings, game nights, casual dining

This Belmont hotspot offers creative Italian-influenced bites, with wood-fired wings as a signature draw. Enjoy them tossed in balsamic glaze, parmesan garlic, or spicy Calabrian chili oil.

Must-Try Dish:
Wood-fired Italian chicken wings finished with lemon, herbs and pecorino

Why Visit:
Stone Fired Social pairs shareable food with great drinks—perfect for social evenings and group fun.

Follow: @stonefiredsocial

Charlotte Italian Restaurant Guide by Occassion

Date Night: Mama Ricotta’s offers cozy ambiance and classic Italian charm

Family Dinner: Little Mama’s has kid-friendly tenders and hearty pasta

Local Favorite: Sorrento Pizzeria is a reliable, neighborhood favorite

Group Dining: Stone Fired Social delivers the perfect combination of wings and drinks

North Italia in Charlotte

Photo Credit: North Italia

Frequently Asked Questions About Charlotte's Italian Restaurants

What are the best Italian-inspired chicken restaurants in Charlotte?
Top picks include Mama Ricotta’s for parmigiana, Little Mama’s for tenders, Sorrento Pizzeria for marsala and Stone Fired Social for wings.

Which Italian restaurant has the best chicken parmigiana?
Mama Ricotta’s—known for their tender chicken breasts and rich tomato sauce.

Where can I find wood-fired Italian wings near Charlotte?
Stone Fired Social in Belmont is your go-to for uniquely seasoned Italian-style wings.

Do any Charlotte restaurants serve Italian chicken brunch items?
Try Little Mama’s for crispy chicken tenders paired with brunch cocktails and comfort dishes.

Bringing Italian Flavors Home: Chicken Edition

Inspired by Charlotte’s flavorful chicken-forward Italian dining scene? Recreate the experience at home with Springer Mountain Farms chicken.

Easy Italian-Style Chicken Recipes:

Pro Tip: Use antibiotic-free, high-quality chicken for bold, authentic flavor. Look for Springer Mountain Farms options at your local grocery store.

Explore our chicken products for Italian cooking:

Last Updated: August 2025

Charlotte’s Italian chicken offerings are constantly evolving. Check restaurant websites for current menus and hours.

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