HONOLULU (KHON2) -- National Fried Chicken Day is being celebrated on Saturday, July 6. This day honors one of America’s favorite comfort foods: fried chicken.
While fried chicken has become a staple in American cuisine, its origins are diverse, combining Scottish frying techniques with West African seasoning traditions.
Scottish immigrants brought the tradition of frying unseasoned chicken in fat, while enslaved Africans in the American South added a blend of spices to the dish, creating the fried chicken we know today.
The local places
Southern Love Fried Chicken is, of course, offering a special for this day. As ubiquitous as fried chicken is to life in the United States South, fried chicken is loved here in Hawaiʻi. They will be offering a 2-piece drumstick with a side for $16.
Oli's Kitchen is offering something super special. They will be at the Mōʻiliʻili Summer Festival offering something that is not usually on their menu. You can experience their fried chicken skewers that will specially priced just for locals and visitors.
What the national chains are offering
Popeyes Cajun Kitchen
Popeyes is offering free chicken wings to it reward members. They are giving away a free six-piece boneless fried chicken wings with every $10+ purchase at participating stores.
Click here for more information.
Kentucky Fried Chicken
KFC is offering you a chance to win a KFC x BoxLunch collaboration. For one grand-prize winner, there will $1,000 in KFC gift cards along with exclusive pieces from the KFC x BoxLunch collection, $500 in BoxLunch gift cards and six months of Uber One. For six runners up, they will receive a combo giveaway with exclusive piece from the KFC x BoxLunch collection, $100 in BoxLunch gift cards and six months of Uber One.
Click here for more details and to enter to win.
Buffalo Wild Wings
Buffalo Wild Wings GO is giving 6 free wings with a $10+ takeout or delivery order.
Click here for more information.
Celebration
On National Fried Chicken Day, people across the country enjoy fried chicken in various forms. Many restaurants and fast-food chains offer special deals or limited-time menu items to mark the occasion.
Regional variations
Fried chicken comes in many regional variations across the United States. Some well-known styles include:
- Southern Fried Chicken: Known for its crispy, seasoned breading and juicy meat.
- Nashville Hot Chicken: Characterized by its spicy, cayenne pepper-laced coating.
- Korean Fried Chicken: Double-fried for extra crispiness and often coated in a sweet and spicy sauce.
Cultural significance
Fried chicken holds cultural significance, especially in the Southern U.S. It is often associated with family gatherings, picnics and holidays. The dish also has a storied history in African American culture, where it has been a symbol of resilience and culinary ingenuity.
Health considerations
While delicious, fried chicken is also high in calories, fat, and sodium. Moderation is key, and some people may opt for healthier versions, such as oven-fried or air-fried chicken, to celebrate the day.
National Fried Chicken Day is a time to indulge in this beloved dish, share recipes, and enjoy the rich cultural heritage associated with it.