Mark your calendars for a tasty celebration - it’s National Fried Chicken Day! Every year, on the 6th of July, we all have a reason to appreciate this well-loved delicacy that soothes the soul and tantalizes the tastebuds. On this unique occasion, it’s only fitting to spoil yourself with your preferred version of the dish or even attempt to prepare the classic dish at home.
Whether you prefer it homemade or served up fast-food style, today is the day to bask in the culinary delight that fried chicken truly is.
History of National Fried Chicken Day
Celebrated every year on July 6th, National Fried Chicken Day is a beloved occasion that pays tribute to a classic American dish, the iconic fried chicken. The tradition of frying chicken is originally credited to Scottish immigrants who made their home in the southern US. Unlike their English neighbors who boiled or baked their chicken, the Scots were fans of deep-frying their chicken in fat.
The unique and flavorful infusion of seasonings and spices that have come to signify southern-style fried chicken can be traced back to African slaves who worked as cooks in the South.
As fried chicken became a mainstay of American cuisine, the popularity of National Fried Chicken Day soared. Enterprises like Kentucky Fried Chicken, Popeyes, and other fast-food outlets greatly contributed to the national appeal of this dish and the holiday dedicated to it.
Modern celebrations often include cooking and enjoying fried chicken with family and friends or dining out at a preferred restaurant. Since many restaurants and fast food chains offer special promotions for the holiday, there are plenty of opportunities to partake in the festivities worldwide.
National Fried Chicken Day Timeline
Invention of Deep Frying
The process of deep frying was first documented by the Egyptians.
Introduction of Chicken Farming
Poultry farming largely began in Rome and spread to the rest of Europe.
First Fried Chicken Recipes
Early recipes of fried chicken were developed in Europe during the Middle Ages.
Popularity in the Southern United States
Scottish Immigrants brought their tradition of deep frying chicken to the southern United States.
First Fast Food Chicken Restaurant
Harland Sanders started serving fried chicken at his gas station, which would later become Kentucky Fried Chicken.
Global Love for Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is enjoyed in countless variations all over the world, and is a signature dish in certain cuisines.
Ideas to Celebrate National Fried Chicken Day
Fried Chicken Feast
Prepare a grand feast featuring various styles of fried chicken. This could range from classic southern fried chicken to Korean fried chicken. Pair this with a variety of delicious side dishes like mac and cheese, coleslaw, and cornbread.
Fried Chicken Recipe Exchange
Organize a fried chicken recipe exchange with your friends or family. Everyone brings their own unique recipe and you can have a tasting party to enjoy all the different variations.
Visit a Local Fried Chicken Spot
Support your local restaurants by visiting your favorite local fried chicken place or try a new one that you’ve never been to before.
Fried Chicken and Movie Night
Have a laid-back celebration with a fried chicken and movie night. Order from your favourite place, pick a few great films, and make it a comfort food night.
Fried Chicken Picnic
Prepare some fried chicken, pack it up with other picnic-friendly foods, and enjoy a meal out in your favorite park or backyard.
6 Interesting Facts About Fried Chicken
Origin of Fried Chicken
Though fried chicken is a staple in American Southern cuisine, its origins can be traced back to the Middle Ages in Scotland. Unlike other European countries which usually baked or boiled chicken, the Scots were frying their poultry as early as the 12th century.
Largest Fried Chicken Festival
New Orleans is home to the world's largest fried chicken festival, where chicken lovers flock to sample an array of innovative and classic takes on this popular dish.
Harland Sanders' Recipe
Colonel Harland Sanders, the founder of KFC, used a secret blend of 11 herbs and spices for his famous fried chicken. The handwritten recipe is locked inside a vault at KFC's headquarters in Louisville, Kentucky.
Fried Chicken and Waffles
The combination of fried chicken and waffles is unique to American cuisine. The dish was popularized in the 1930s during the Jazz Age, with late-night joints in Harlem serving it as a meal that bridged the gap between dinner and breakfast.
Fried Chicken in South Korea
South Korea has its own unique take on fried chicken, called 'Yangnyeom'. This version is typically double fried to make it extra crispy, then delicately brushed with a sweet and spicy sauce.
Fried Chicken Consumption
Americans love their fried chicken! It is estimated that they eat over 90 pounds of chicken per capita per year.
National Fried Chicken Day FAQs
Next National Fried Chicken Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | July 6th | Thursday |
| 2024 | July 6th | Saturday |
| 2025 | July 6th | Sunday |
| 2026 | July 6th | Monday |
| 2027 | July 6th | Tuesday |
| What is the pattern? | Every July 6th | |
National Fried Chicken Day Word Search
- Fried
- Chicken
- Crunchy
- Delicious
- Poultry
- Juicy