Hey there, fellow fried chicken enthusiasts! If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably found yourself wondering when exactly you can officially celebrate that crispy, juicy, perfectly-seasoned comfort food we all love. Well, I’ve got some cluckin’ good news for you – National Fried Chicken Day is coming up on Sunday, July 6, 2025!
That’s right, it’s practically around the corner, and I couldn’t be more excited to share everything you need to know about this delicious food holiday. From its origins to the best deals you can score (who doesn’t love free chicken?), I’ve got you covered.
The History of National Fried Chicken Day
While the exact origins of National Fried Chicken Day remain somewhat mysterious (like the secret blend of 11 herbs and spices), this celebration has become a beloved tradition for food lovers across America Fried chicken itself has deep roots in Southern cuisine, with techniques that draw from Scottish frying methods and West African seasoning traditions
What makes this holiday extra special in 2025 is that it falls just two days after Independence Day! Imagine extending your Fourth of July celebrations with even more delicious food – talk about a perfect long weekend!
Why We Love Fried Chicken Day
Let’s be honest – do we really need a specific reason to celebrate fried chicken? I think not! But since we’re here let’s talk about why this dish deserves its own national day
- Universal Appeal: Almost every culture has some version of fried chicken
- Comfort Food Status: Few dishes can match the satisfaction of biting into perfectly crispy chicken
- Versatility: Whether you prefer spicy, extra crispy, or classic Southern-style, there’s a fried chicken variation for everyone
- Brings People Together: Sharing a bucket of fried chicken has been bringing families and friends together for generations
How to Celebrate National Fried Chicken Day 2025
There are countless ways to honor this important culinary holiday Here are some of my favorite suggestions
- Visit a local fried chicken restaurant – Support small businesses while enjoying some amazing food!
- Try making fried chicken at home – Challenge yourself with a new recipe
- Host a fried chicken potluck – Ask friends to bring different styles of fried chicken
- Take advantage of special deals and freebies – More on this below!
- Share your fried chicken experiences on social media – Don’t forget those hashtags! #FriedChickenDay #FriedChickenDay2025
Impeckable Deals and Freebies for National Fried Chicken Day 2025
One of the best parts about food holidays are the amazing deals restaurants offer. Here’s a roundup of some cluckin’ good offers you can score on July 6, 2025:
Big Chicken
Score an Original Chicken Sandwich for just $5 with any purchase! Just mention the promotion at the register. This is a single-use offer, so use it wisely!
Bonchon
Save $5 on online orders of $15 or more using the code GET5OFF. Perfect excuse to try their amazing Korean-style fried chicken if you haven’t already!
Church’s Texas Chicken
Rewards members who make any purchase can cash in on a free two-piece Leg & Thigh (spicy or original bone-in chicken). You’ll need to use their app or order in-restaurant to claim this single-use offer.
Cracker Barrel
Rewards members earn double points when purchasing fried chicken menu items including Southern Fried Chicken, Crispy Tender Dippers, Signature Saucy Chicken Sandwich, Homestyle Chicken, Homestyle Chicken + French Toast and Homestyle Fried Chicken Salad. Time to rack up those points while enjoying some comfort food!
El Pollo Loco
Rewards members who purchase any Chicken Meal or Family Chicken Meal on July 6 will score a free two-piece Leg & Thigh Meal with any purchase on their next visit between July 7-20. That’s like getting two chicken celebrations!
Hardee’s
Rewards members can take advantage of a buy one, get one for $1 offer on hand-breaded chicken sandwiches through July 7. Just order through their app or website.
KFC
The Colonel is offering free delivery through July 6 for orders placed on their website or app. No minimum purchase required!
Jack in the Box
Score a free Cluck Chicken Sandwich with any $5 minimum order on July 6. That’s a deal worth jumping out of the box for!
Jollibee
New rewards members can get two free pieces of Chickenjoy with every 10-piece bucket purchase through July 10. If you’ve never tried Jollibee’s Filipino-style fried chicken, you’re seriously missing out!
Kroger
Through July 8, Kroger Plus card holders can grab an eight-piece of Home Chef Fried Chicken for just $5.99. That’s enough to feed the whole family!
Mountain Mike’s Pizza
Get six wings for just $4.99 or 12 wings for $8.99 with any pizza purchase using codes 6WING4 or 12WING8. Pizza AND chicken? Yes please!
Pollo Campero
Loyalty members can get a free fried chicken leg or thigh with any meal purchase. Just mention the discount when ordering in-store, or be logged into your loyalty account for online/app orders.
Shake Shack
Starting July 6, customers can score a free Chicken Shack with any $10 purchase using code CHICKENSUNDAY in the chain’s app, website, or in-restaurant. This deal continues every Sunday through July 27!
White Castle
Through July 6, customers can get a buy one, get one free deal on their new Crispy Chicken Slider using the code CRISPY. Slider lovers rejoice!
My Personal Fried Chicken Day Traditions
I’ve been celebrating National Fried Chicken Day for years now, and I’ve developed a few traditions that make the day extra special. Last year, I hosted a fried chicken tasting party where everyone brought their favorite style – we had Nashville hot, Korean double-fried, classic Southern buttermilk, and even a gluten-free version that was surprisingly delicious!
This year, I’m thinking of doing a fried chicken crawl to hit up a few different spots offering deals. With National Fried Chicken Day falling on a Sunday in 2025, it’s the perfect opportunity for a weekend food adventure!
Fried Chicken Around the World
While we’re celebrating the American version of fried chicken on July 6, it’s worth noting that nearly every culture has their own unique take on this dish. Here are some international variations you might want to try:
| Country | Style | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Korea | Yangnyeom | Double-fried and coated in a sweet and spicy sauce |
| Japan | Karaage | Marinated in soy, ginger, and garlic, then lightly coated |
| Thailand | Hat Yai | Fried chicken with crispy shallots and a sweet chili sauce |
| Philippines | Jollibee-style | Sweet-savory marinade with a light, crispy coating |
| India | Chicken 65 | Spicy, deep-fried chicken with curry leaves and chilis |
The Perfect Side Dishes for Fried Chicken
No fried chicken celebration is complete without the perfect sides! Here are some classic pairings:
- Mashed potatoes and gravy
- Coleslaw (the tangy kind that cuts through the richness)
- Macaroni and cheese
- Biscuits (preferably slathered in honey butter)
- Collard greens
- Corn on the cob
- Potato salad
- Baked beans
- Waffles (for that chicken and waffles goodness)
Healthier Ways to Enjoy Fried Chicken Day
Look, I get it – not everyone wants to indulge in traditional deep-fried chicken, even on National Fried Chicken Day. If you’re looking for slightly healthier alternatives, consider:
- Air-fryer chicken (gets crispy with way less oil)
- Oven-“fried” chicken (baked with a crispy coating)
- Grilled chicken with fried chicken seasoning
- Chicken tenders with a light panko crust
These options still capture the spirit of the day while being a bit kinder to your waistline!
Final Thoughts: Mark Your Calendar for July 6!
Now that you know National Fried Chicken Day falls on Sunday, July 6, 2025, there’s no excuse not to celebrate! Whether you’re taking advantage of restaurant deals, making your own at home, or gathering with friends, this food holiday is one worth observing.
The best part? Since it falls just after Independence Day, you can continue your weekend celebrations with another food-focused event. What could be more American than extending a holiday weekend with more delicious food?
So mark your calendars, set those reminders, and get ready to celebrate National Fried Chicken Day in style this July 6, 2025. Your taste buds will thank you!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy fried chicken? Do you have any special plans for National Fried Chicken Day this year? Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear your thoughts!
P.S. Don’t forget to check restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm these deals, as participation may vary by location. Nothing’s worse than driving all the way to a restaurant only to find they’re not honoring the deal!
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Popeyes Hawai‘i serves up “basically free” chicken for National Fried Chicken Day
FAQ
What is National KFC Day?
National Fried Chicken Day is July 6: Here’s where to find free food deals, discounts. Mike Snider. USA TODAY. 0:35. If fried chicken is your comfort food, mark Sunday, July 6, on your calendar.
Is today International chicken Day?
July 6 is celebrated as National Fried Chicken Day—a date that sees people across the U.S. (and beyond) indulging in one of the world’s most universally loved comfort foods.
What national day is on July 6th?
Comoros National Day. On behalf of the United States of America, I send our best wishes to the Comorian people as you celebrate a historic milestone: The 50th anniversary of your independence on July 6. The relationship between the United States and Comoros is characterized by mutual respect and cooperation.
What is the hashtag for National Fried Chicken Day?
NATIONAL FRIED CHICKEN DAY BABY! @kfc. #nationalfriedchickenday #friedchicken #chicken #fried #chickenfried #chickenwings #chickentenders #chickennuggets #chickensandwich #yummy #yum #kfc #kentuckyfriedchicken #food #foodie #foodlover #foodofinstagram #foodies #foodlover #yummyformytummy.