All about July
July Celebrations and Holidays

Every year on July 6th, food lovers across the U.S. celebrate National Fried Chicken Day—a delicious tribute to one of America’s most beloved comfort foods. Golden, crispy, and irresistibly flavorful, fried chicken holds a special place in culinary history.

Whether you prefer it spicy, buttermilk-soaked, or extra crunchy, this holiday is the perfect excuse to indulge. From its Southern roots to global fame, fried chicken has a rich story to tell.

Ready to dig in? Let’s explore the origins, best ways to celebrate, and mouthwatering variations of this iconic dish!

The History of Fried Chicken: A Global Comfort Food

Fried chicken didn’t start in the U.S.—it has ancient roots. Scottish immigrants brought their tradition of pan-frying chicken in fat to the American South. Enslaved African cooks, however, perfected the method by seasoning it and deep-frying it to crispy perfection.

By the 19th century, fried chicken became a Southern staple. Later, restaurants like Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) turned it into a worldwide phenomenon. Today, it’s a universal comfort food with countless regional twists.

Why We Love National Fried Chicken Day

This holiday isn’t just about eating—it’s about tradition, creativity, and community. Here’s why fried chicken deserves its own day:

• Comfort Food at Its Best: Crispy skin and juicy meat make it irresistible.

• Versatile Flavors: From Nashville hot to Korean glazed, there’s a style for everyone.

• Cultural Icon: It’s a symbol of Southern hospitality and global fusion cuisine.

• Shareable Joy: Fried chicken brings people together at picnics, parties, and family dinners.

How to Celebrate National Fried Chicken Day

Whether you’re dining out or cooking at home, here are delicious ways to enjoy the day:

1. Visit a Legendary Fried Chicken Spot

Try iconic restaurants like:

• Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken (Memphis-style spicy)

• Willie Mae’s Scotch House (New Orleans’ gold standard)

• Howlin’ Ray’s (Nashville hot chicken)

• Jollibee (Filipino crispy joy)

2. Host a Fried Chicken Feast

Pair it with classic sides like:

• Fluffy buttermilk biscuits

• Creamy mac and cheese

• Tangy coleslaw

• Sweet honey butter

3. Try a New Recipe

Experiment with styles like:

• Korean fried chicken (double-fried with sticky glaze)

• Japanese karaage (marinated in soy and ginger)

• Nashville hot (fiery cayenne coating)

• Vegan “fried chicken” (made with mushrooms or tofu)

4. Support Local Businesses

Order from a neighborhood joint or food truck.

5. Share the Love

Post your best #NationalFriedChickenDay pics—or deliver a bucket to a friend!

Global Fried Chicken Variations

Fried chicken isn’t just Southern—it’s a world traveler. Try these international twists:

• Korean Yangnyeom Chicken: Crispy with sweet-spicy gochujang sauce.

• Japanese Karaage: Light, juicy, and soy-marinated.

• Jamaican Jerk Fried Chicken: Spiced with Scotch bonnet peppers.

• South African Peri-Peri Chicken: Zesty with African bird’s eye chili.

Each culture adds its own flair, proving fried chicken is a universal language.

Fun Fried Chicken Facts

• The biggest fried chicken dish weighed 6,900 lbs (Guinness World Record).

• KFC sells over 2 billion pieces annually in 150+ countries.

• National Fried Chicken Day was likely started by a food PR team—but we’re not complaining!

• Thomas Jefferson helped popularize fried chicken in early America.

DIY Fried Chicken Tips

Want to make it at home? Follow these pro tips:

• Brining is key: Soak chicken in buttermilk or pickle juice overnight.

• Double-dip: Flour, egg wash, then flour again for extra crunch.

• Fry at 350°F: Too hot = burnt; too cool = greasy.

• Drain on a rack: Keeps it crispy (not soggy).

Final Thoughts: Pass the Chicken!

National Fried Chicken Day celebrates a dish that’s simple, satisfying, and deeply cultural. Whether you like it classic or adventurous, today’s the day to savor every bite.

So grab a drumstick, try a new recipe, or share a bucket with friends. After all, fried chicken tastes better together!

What’s your all-time favorite fried chicken style? Share your top pick in the comments!

“Please note that some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission. This helps support my blog and allows me to continue creating content for you. Thank you for your support!” 

All about July
July Celebrations and Holidays