This Sabahan couple hires ex-convicts for a second chance & serves the best chicken chop in KL

Meet the dynamic Sabahan couple behind Charlie’s Chicken Chop, a cafe with a heart as big as its delicious portions. Founded in 2015, this humble eatery has quickly become a beloved gem in KL, serving up the best chicken chop in the city—no contest!

This isn’t just any cafe, though. The husband-and-wife duo behind the counter are on a mission to serve the community by offering a second chance to those who’ve been incarcerated. By hiring ex-convicts, they’re not just creating tasty meals but also opening doors for a brighter future. With everything priced under RM30, Charlie’s proves you can eat well without breaking the bank. Oh, and did we mention they’re champions of Malaysia’s Next Top Chicken Chop? Come for the food, stay for the story, and leave with your heart full and your belly even fuller.

The journey behind Charlie’s Chicken Chop: Hiring ex-convicts & changing lives

Desonny and Debra, the passionate Sabahan couple behind Charlie’s Chicken Chop, have built more than just a cafe; they’ve created a platform for change.

Hailing from Sandakan, Sabah, Desonny moved to Kuala Lumpur over three decades ago, initially for studies but soon immersing himself in the food industry. With over five years of experience in food solutions, he honed his skills in understanding market trends and consumer preferences, which shaped Charlie’s Chicken Chop’s comforting menu.

While the cafe is known for its mouthwatering chicken chop, it’s the couple’s commitment to community that truly sets them apart. Charlie’s Chicken Chop is a social enterprise, offering a second chance to ex-convicts through partnerships with organisations like Malaysian CARE. They also launched a pay-it-forward initiative, providing meals to the less fortunate, although the pandemic has scaled down their efforts. Despite facing criticism, Desonny and Debra continue their work quietly, driven by a deep desire to uplift others, especially those from Bornean and indigenous communities. Their mission of serving both the stomach and the soul shines through in every dish.

Woohoo! 10 years of Charlie’s Chicken Chop

Of course, when visiting Charlie’s Chicken Chop, you’ve got to try the dish everyone raves about; their award-winning Chicken Chop (RM26.90).

The portion is massive, and we were here for it. Their homemade Sarawak Black Pepper Sauce perfectly coated the crispy fried chicken, delivering a comforting, delicious bite with every forkful. I do wish the sauce had more of a peppery kick to really round out the flavours.

A colleague of mine, who’s typically not a fan of shiitake mushrooms, tried the mushroom sauce as an alternative and was pleasantly surprised by how much she enjoyed it. It’s a great option for those who want a more earthy, umami-rich complement to their chicken chop.

I think what sets Charlie’s Chicken Chop apart is the homemade feel of the entire dish, which is hard to come by at Western restaurants these days. The batter on their fried chicken is perfectly crispy and well-seasoned, creating a satisfying crunch with each bite, while the chicken itself remains incredibly tender and juicy on the inside. It’s never dry, always succulent.

It’s easy to see why they’re champions of Malaysia’s Next Top Chicken Chop. This dish definitely deserves the title.

MFT’s review

Next, we tried their Sarawak Laksa (RM21), which is packed with layers of flavour. Made with 12 herbs and spices and boiled for up to 8 hours, the laksa broth sports a velvety and creamy consistency thanks to the collagen in the chicken bones. It is indeed a very kaw broth. The herbs weren’t too overpowering but you still get that signature Sarawak laksa taste. The fresh Udang Galah on top? Muah, chef’s kiss!

If you’re a ramen fan, don’t miss their Black Garlic Ramen with Gojira Fried Chicken (RM18.90). The ramen broth base is simmered for 8 hours with chicken bones and a Malaysian flower crab, giving it a deep, rich flavour. The ‘Gojira’ Fried Chicken is very crispy and adds some texture to the noodle dish.

For something with a local twist, the Nasi Lemak with Mini Chicken Chop (RM21) is a must-try. The rice is fragrant, and the sambal packs the perfect balance of salty and spicy. The mini chicken chop is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.

Known for their chicken chop, you might not expect much from the desserts and drinks, but both exceeded our expectations. Their French Butter Cake (RM5) was next-level soft and moist, with a rich, buttery flavour that keeps you coming back for more. Don’t leave without trying it. A simple Iced Lemon Tea might not seem like a standout, but Charlie’s version was a pleasant surprise. It’s tangy, sweet, and incredibly refreshing, with a concentrated brew that sets it apart from other places

Championing the best chicken chop in KL with purpose

At Charlie’s Chicken Chop, you’re not just enjoying some of the best chicken chop in KL—you’re also supporting a cafe with a meaningful mission. The portions are generous, the flavours are bold, and the experience is one that goes beyond just great food. With every dish served, you’re also contributing to their efforts to uplift the community. It’s a place where delicious meals and a heartwarming story come together, making it well worth every penny.