National Fried Chicken Day - July 6, 2024

Fried chicken’s a greasy, deliciously indulgent comfort food enjoyed all over the world. But did you know that the ultimate soul food originated in our own backyard — where Scottish chicken-frying methods were combined with West African seasoning traditions — to create what is now one of the world’s favorite guilty pleasures? Fried chicken was an expensive delicacy up until World War II, but thanks to mass production techniques, we’re now able to indulge ourselves on the cheap in almost any city in the world. So on July 6, we get out our buckets ‘o’ chicken and napkins, because it’s National Fried Chicken Day.

National Fried Chicken Day Activities

Fry it up yourself

Find a recipe, hit the kitchen, and dive in. Serve the results to family and friends. They'll probably love you for it.

Go authentic

Fast food fried chicken is delicious, but on this special day, step up your fried chicken game. Try the real thing by finding an authentic Southern restaurant in your area. Chances are — fried chicken occupies a prominent place on the menu.

Treat the boss

Fried chicken is traditionally a family meal shared from a common bucket, bowl, or plate. Surprise your coworkers by carting a giant bucket 'o' chicken to the office and enjoying it together during your lunch hour. Make sure to bring plenty of napkins. Nobody wants greasy keyboards.

Why We Love National Fried Chicken Day

Humble beginnings

Fried chicken acted as a means to empower slaves, who were able to generate independent cash flows by selling it. The dish became popular prior to the Civil War since chickens were the only animals slaves were allowed to own and raise.

Endless variety

Spicy? Extra crispy? Regular? There are as many ways to cook fried chicken as there are people lined up to eat it. Fried chicken can be dunked in vegetable shortening, lard, peanut oil, or any other oil of your choice.