NATIONAL FRIED CHICKEN DAY
NATIONAL FRIED CHICKEN DAY
On July 6, chicken lovers across the country recognize National Fried Chicken Day by feasting at a nearby restaurant, at home, or at an outdoor picnic.
#NationalFriedChickenDay
Scottish immigrants brought their tradition of deep-frying chicken in fat to the southern United States. After its introduction to the American South, fried chicken soon became a staple. Over time, cooks added seasonings and spices to enrich the flavor of the chicken.
"The best comfort food will always be greens, cornbread and fried chicken." ~ Poet, Maya Angelou
Did you know a fried chicken sandwich was launched into space?
Hilariously true! In 2017, a major fast-food chain actually launched a fried chicken sandwich into the stratosphere using a high-altitude space balloon. It spent a few hours floating about 15 miles above Earth before parachuting back down. Does anyone know if someone ate the sandwich after landing back on earth?
Fried chicken is a dish consisting of chicken pieces floured or battered, then pan-fried, deep-fried, or pressure-fried. The breading adds a crisp coating to the exterior of the chicken. Knowing how to get a good crisp on the chicken may seem elusive to some. Some of the best cooks will tell you the keys to achieving the crispiest fried chicken involve seasoning well and early in the process, adding starch to your flour, and frying your chicken at the right temperature (the oil should be 300°F). Finally, let the chicken rest before serving to allow the juices to be absorbed back into the meat. Just like beef and pork, chicken will be more tender when allowed to rest.
Traditionally, the chicken is fried in lard. However, corn oil, peanut oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil are also frequently used.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL FRIED CHICKEN DAY
Use this batter mix as you try this fried chicken recipe. Serve it with your favorite side dishes, too. Potato salad, cornbread, greens, or watermelon. And be sure to share! Invite some friends over, make some fried chicken, and share photos on social media using #NationalFriedChickenDay.
"Fried chicken just tend to make you feel better about life." ~ Minnie Jackson from the film The Help
NATIONAL FRIED CHICKEN DAY HISTORY
National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this food holiday.