Chicago P.D. has become a cornerstone of NBC’s One Chicago franchise. Known for its gritty realism, morally complex characters, and high-stakes storytelling, the show has given fans unforgettable moments across its twelve seasons. But among the hundreds of episodes, a select few stand out as truly defining the heart of the series. These episodes not only showcase the raw drama of police work in Chicago but also the personal struggles and sacrifices of the Intelligence Unit. Here are the 10 best episodes of Chicago P.D. that every fan should revisit.
1. “Stepping Stone” (Season 1, Episode 1)
It all began here. The pilot episode introduced fans to the world of Hank Voight’s Intelligence Unit. Right from the start, the series made it clear that this wasn’t a typical procedural—Voight was a leader with questionable morals, and the team was a mix of rookies and veterans trying to prove themselves. This episode set the tone with gritty casework and hinted at the larger storylines that would come to define the series. It remains a perfect starting point for new viewers and a nostalgic gem for longtime fans.
2. “A Beautiful Friendship” (Season 1, Episode 15)
The Season 1 finale delivered everything fans hoped for from a police drama: suspense, shocking revelations, and emotional payoffs. The episode tied together key storylines, highlighted Erin Lindsay’s loyalty to Voight, and underscored the risks that come with being part of the unit. It also set the stage for bigger and more ambitious storytelling in later seasons, proving the show could balance character-driven drama with thrilling cases.
3. “Push the Pain Away” (Season 2, Episode 6)
This episode is remembered for its emotional gut punch. After a shooting involving Antonio’s family, the Intelligence Unit comes together in a powerful way. It’s one of the first episodes that truly cemented the show’s reputation for blending action with heart. The case was intense, but the real impact came from seeing how the team protected one of their own. It highlighted the unit’s bond and showed why Chicago P.D. was more than just another crime drama.
4. “The Number of Rats” (Season 2, Episode 20)
Crossovers have become a signature of the One Chicago universe, and this episode is a standout. As part of a three-show event with Chicago Fire and Law & Order: SVU, the Intelligence Unit worked alongside Olivia Benson and her team. The episode combined the grittiness of P.D. with the legal expertise of SVU, creating a thrilling hour of television. Fans loved seeing the universes collide, and it reminded viewers of the unique power of the Wolf Entertainment franchise.
5. “Start Digging” (Season 3, Episode 23)
The Season 3 finale is widely regarded as one of the most emotional in the series’ history. Erin Lindsay, played by Sophia Bush, faced devastating personal challenges as the team investigated a brutal crime. By the end, her character was left questioning her place in the unit and in Voight’s world. This episode not only showcased Bush’s incredible performance but also marked the beginning of the end for Lindsay, who would depart the show in Season 4. Fans still consider this one of the most powerful episodes ever aired.
6. “Justice” (Season 4, Episode 21)
Another memorable crossover, this time with the short-lived series Chicago Justice. In this episode, the Intelligence Unit investigates a murder case that brings them into direct conflict with the prosecutors. The clash of police work and the legal system created a tense and thought-provoking story. It was also an important turning point for Antonio Dawson, who began to transition into the legal drama spinoff. The episode stands out for its layered storytelling and exploration of justice from multiple angles.
7. “Emotional Proximity” (Season 4, Episode 16)
This crossover with Chicago Fire is considered a masterpiece. The Intelligence Unit investigates a deadly warehouse fire, and the emotional stakes are sky-high since victims include people connected to Firehouse 51. The pacing, performances, and heartbreaking twists made this episode unforgettable. It showed just how interconnected the One Chicago world could be and gave fans one of the most intense episodes in franchise history.
8. “Rabbit Hole” (Season 6, Episode 1)
The Season 6 premiere picked up after the shocking death of Alvin Olinsky in the Season 5 finale. Voight’s grief and guilt dominated the hour, showing Jason Beghe at his very best. This episode was a turning point, as it dealt with the emotional fallout of Olinsky’s death and set the tone for a darker, more introspective season. It remains one of the most heartbreaking yet beautifully executed episodes in the series.
9. “Burden of Truth” (Season 7, Episode 11)
Atwater’s storylines have always been powerful, but this episode in particular stands out. Tackling themes of race, policing, and justice, it pushed the series into socially relevant territory. LaRoyce Hawkins delivered an unforgettable performance, showing Atwater’s strength, vulnerability, and moral clarity. The episode was widely praised for addressing real-world issues while staying true to the show’s gritty style.
10. “A Good Man” (Season 10, Episode 3)
This episode marked the farewell of Detective Jay Halstead, played by Jesse Lee Soffer. After years of being a cornerstone of the series, Halstead’s exit was emotional and bittersweet. The storyline, which saw him making a difficult choice about his future, gave fans closure while leaving the door open for a possible return. It was a reminder of how much the character had grown since Season 1 and why he remains one of the most beloved figures in Chicago P.D. history.
Why These Episodes Matter
What makes these episodes stand out isn’t just their shocking twists or action-packed cases. Each one highlights what makes Chicago P.D. unique: its ability to blend gritty police work with deep character exploration. From Voight’s moral gray areas to Burgess’s resilience, from Atwater’s strength to Lindsay and Halstead’s complicated journeys, the show consistently reminds us that behind every badge is a story worth telling.
These ten episodes capture the very best of what Chicago P.D. has offered fans over the years. They balance procedural tension with emotional stakes, proving why the series continues to resonate after more than a decade. Whether you’re a longtime fan revisiting old favorites or a newcomer diving into the One Chicago universe, these episodes are essential viewing.
