Hey fellow cruise lovers! I’ve been obsessing over Carnival’s food options lately (as one does), and I just had to write about one of my absolute favorites – Shaq’s Big Chicken! If you’re planning a Carnival cruise and wondering which ships have this amazing restaurant, you’re in the right place. I’ve gathered all the info you need about where to find this finger-lickin’ good spot across the Carnival fleet.
Which Carnival Ships Currently Have Big Chicken?
As of September 2025, Big Chicken can be found on these Carnival ships:
- Carnival Celebration
- Carnival Jubilee
- Carnival Mardi Gras
- Carnival Radiance
- Carnival Panorama
- Carnival Vista
- Carnival Magic
And I’ve got exciting news for anyone booking future cruises – Big Chicken is coming soon to
- Carnival Festivale
What Exactly is Shaq’s Big Chicken?
If you’re unfamiliar with this gem, Big Chicken is a restaurant created by NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, who also happens to be Carnival’s Chief Fun Officer (yes, that’s really his title!). When Shaq tells Carnival to build a chicken joint onboard, they listen!
The restaurant serves up delicious fried chicken in various forms – sandwiches, tenders, and baskets – plus tasty sides like potato salad and jalapeño slaw. What makes it even better? It’s completely FREE as part of your cruise fare!
Where to Find Big Chicken on Different Ship Classes
The location varies depending on which ship you’re sailing
Excel Class Ships (Jubilee Celebration Mardi Gras)
- Located on Deck 16
- Near other popular spots like Blue Iguana Cantina, Seafood Shack, and Lido Marketplace
Sunshine Class Ships (Carnival Radiance):
- Located on Deck 9
- Near The Deli, Guy’s Burger Joint, and other Lido favorites
Vista and Magic Class Ships:
- Typically on the Lido Deck
- Near the main pool area and casual dining options
Big Chicken Hours of Operation
One thing I love about Big Chicken is its flexible hours:
- Breakfast: Opens around 7:00 AM and serves until 3:00 PM (yes, you can get breakfast until mid-afternoon!)
- Lunch/Dinner: From late morning until around 10:00 PM
The exact times might vary slightly by ship and sailing, so I always recommend checking the Carnival Hub app once onboard for the most current schedule.
What’s on the Menu?
Let me tell you about the food – it’s fantastic! The menu includes:
Lunch & Dinner Options:
- Chicken sandwiches (with fun Shaq-themed names)
- Crispy chicken strips
- Fried chicken baskets
- Sides like potato salad and jalapeño slaw
- French fries
Breakfast Items:
- Chicken biscuits
- Three-cheese omelets
- Biscuit/egg combos with bacon or sausage
My personal favorite is the spicy chicken sandwich, which has just the right amount of heat. The chicken tenders with fries are also perfect for a casual poolside lunch.
Practical Info About Big Chicken
Is a Reservation Required?
Nope! Big Chicken works like a quick-service restaurant. You just walk up to the counter, place your order, and enjoy. This makes it super convenient for families or when you just want a casual meal without planning ahead.
Is There a Dress Code?
There’s no strict dress code at Big Chicken. Since it’s a casual, poolside restaurant, most guests wear comfortable cruise wear like shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. You can even grab food in your swimwear with a cover-up.
Can I Visit More Than Once?
Absolutely! Since Big Chicken is included in your cruise fare, you can visit as many times as you want during your voyage. Some cruisers (like me) end up going multiple times because it’s just that good!
My Personal Review of Shaq’s Big Chicken
I tried Big Chicken on my last Carnival cruise, and it quickly became my go-to spot. On embarkation day, I headed straight there instead of fighting the buffet crowds, and those crispy chicken tenders with fries were the perfect start to my vacation.
The next morning, I had the chicken-and-biscuit sandwich for breakfast, which paired perfectly with my morning coffee and gave me energy for a day of activities.
By the fourth night, I was already addicted and went back for that spicy chicken sandwich I mentioned earlier. Pro tip: try all the different dipping sauces!
I’m not the only fan either. Other cruisers I chatted with raved about the quality and taste, though a few mentioned the breakfast biscuits were a bit dry. Overall, most people agreed it was worth any short wait, and the crew kept service moving quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shaq’s Big Chicken Free on Carnival Cruise?
Yes! Everything at Big Chicken is included in your cruise fare. You can enjoy chicken sandwiches, tenders, fries, and all menu items at no additional cost.
Does Shaquille O’Neal Ever Visit Big Chicken on Carnival Ships?
While it’s not common, Shaq has been known to visit Big Chicken locations on Carnival ships occasionally. Keep an eye out for announcements during your cruise – you might get lucky!
What is Shaquille O’Neal’s Involvement with Big Chicken?
Shaq is a partner and the namesake behind Big Chicken. His personality and love for comfort food are reflected in the restaurant’s menu and atmosphere. He’s actively involved in the brand’s development and promotion.
Are There Vegetarian Options at Big Chicken?
Vegetarian options are limited since this is primarily a chicken restaurant. You can enjoy sides like mac & cheese and fries, but there aren’t dedicated vegetarian main dishes or vegan options on the standard menu.
Tips for Enjoying Big Chicken
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Visit during off-peak hours to avoid lines, especially on sea days when everyone’s onboard.
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Try breakfast at least once – many cruisers don’t realize Big Chicken serves breakfast, so it’s often less crowded in the morning.
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Don’t miss the sauces – they elevate the already delicious chicken to a whole new level.
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Feel free to take food back to your cabin if you want to enjoy it privately or on your balcony.
Conclusion
If you’re sailing on one of the Carnival ships that features Big Chicken, make sure to add it to your must-try list! It’s a casual, delicious dining option that won’t disappoint (or cost you extra). I honestly think it’s one of the best quick-service spots in the entire Carnival fleet.
Happy cruising and happy eating!
Cost to Eat at Big Chicken
Enjoying a meal at Big Chicken comes at no extra cost to Carnival Cruise Line guests, as it is included in the cruise fare. This makes it an appealing option for everyone onboard to savor without worrying about additional charges.
Big Chicken Menu Highlights
At Big Chicken, guests can indulge in crispy chicken sandwiches with a choice of dark or white meat, including signature options like the M.D.E. (Most Dominant Ever) and the Shaq Daddy with Swiss cheese and Carolina honey mustard BBQ sauce. The menu also features a fried chicken basket, chicken strips, and a variety of sidekicks like potato salad and jalapeno slaw, complemented by a selection of sauces. For brunch enthusiasts, Big Chicken extends its all-day breakfast menu until 3pm, featuring delights like chicken & biscuit and a savory three-cheese omelette.