NATIONAL GRILLED CHICKEN DAY
Fast Facts
- CELEBRATION
- Celebrate America’s healthiest and favorite protein Chicken, and the most delicious way to prepare it.
- CELEBRATED
- Each year on September 9
- FOUNDER
- Founded by El Pollo Loco in 2026
- VIBE
- Delicious, healthy, culinary delight
NATIONAL GRILLED CHICKEN DAY
National Grilled Chicken Day on September 9 fires up the grates to celebrate America’s healthiest and favorite protein and the most delicious way to prepare it. From backyard grillers to busy families looking for an easy and nutritious weeknight win, National Grilled Chicken Day honors the sizzle, the smoke, and the incredible versatility of grilled chicken.
#NationalGrilledChickenDay
Chicken is the single most consumed protein in the U.S. It transcends all demographics, making it an inclusive staple loved by health-conscious eaters, families on the go, and culinary foodies alike.
One of the great things about grilled chicken is its universal inclusivity. Whether it's served on the bone, tossed into a pollo salad, or tucked into a craveable loaded quesadilla, grilling infuses a deep, char-kissed flavor that frying simply cannot replicate. Grilled chicken is naturally low-carb, high-protein, and gluten-free. It serves as the ultimate food choice for virtually any modern lifestyle or dietary preference without the added fats, heavy batters, and extra calories.
While there are plenty of ways to cook chicken, nothing beats the flavor quite like grilled chicken. National Grilled Chicken Day gives a dedicated moment to home grillers, restaurants, and food brands that represent health, wellness, and pure culinary tradition.
WAYS TO CELEBRATE ON #NationalGrilledChickenDay
National Grilled Chicken Day is a day anyone can participate in. We invite everyone, from home-grillers to restaurant lovers, to join them in enjoying and celebrating fire-grilled chicken on September 9. Here is how you can celebrate today:
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Fire Up the Grill: There is an art to grilling, and this day is a great time to perfect your technique. Remember, the secret to juicy grilled chicken is cooking it to a perfect internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). We recommend using a meat thermometer to nail it like a pro! Backyard grillers can experiment with a new marinade on National Grilled Chicken Day. Today is your day to try that zesty cilantro lime or a savory herb-infused olive oil recipe.
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Support Your Local Smokehouse: Head out to your nearest El Pollo Loco and celebrate with the brand that started it all! Or head out to your favorite local restaurant, food truck, or diner and order their signature grilled chicken dish.
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Do Your Weekly Meal Prep: Meal prepping is important for many people. Take advantage of National Grilled Chicken Day to prepare a batch of grilled chicken to have healthy lunches throughout the week.
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Share Your Sizzle: Start a conversation about the best marinades for grilled chicken on your favorite social media platform. Don't forget to share your photos of your perfect grill marks or your final plated masterpiece using the hashtag #NationalGrilledChickenDay.
HISTORY BEHIND NATIONAL GRILLED CHICKEN DAY
National Grilled Chicken Day was submitted by El Pollo Loco in 2025 to enshrine what the brand has championed for over five decades: a passion for fire-grilled chicken and freshly prepared ingredients. As the brand expands from 500 restaurants to reach new markets nationwide, it’s sharing its enthusiasm with the entire nation by establishing a day of celebration.
The National Day Calendar Registrar approved this amazing Food Day to be celebrated each year on September 9 beginning in 2026.
