Mr. T -- I Pity the Fool Who Don't Get Fried Chicken

Mr. T has poultry priorities ... which is why he made sure to visit a fried chicken staple in New Orleans Friday -- and he came bearing gifts.

The folks at Willie Mae's Scotch House tell us the 80's icon passed out "Mr. T in Your Pocket" key chains to the staff ... and took pics with all comers.

We're told T and his party ordered fried chicken, catfish, red rice and beans ... costing a grand total of $60 -- plus a $25 tip.