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Ideas to Make it Memorable National Fried Chicken Day!

June 25, 2026

At the height of cookout season, National Fried Chicken Day on July 6 provides the perfect excuse to take a break from the grill. Whether you opt for the air fryer or order from the Freddy’s near you, celebrate this tasty occasion with one of the many different fried chicken preparations. Below, find some meal ideas that may help you decide how to honor fried chicken on July 6 or fulfill your craving for it on any other day of the year!

 

Meal Ideas for National Fried Chicken Day

 

As shared at National Today, the first written recipe for fried chicken may have appeared in the middle of the 18th century, but the preparation of and love for this dish began even earlier. Today, different variations of fried chicken and dishes featuring it can be found across the world. Therefore, it’s fitting that there is a day designated each year for celebrating this dish. On July 6 or any other time you’re craving fried chicken, here are 5 meal ideas to consider:

 

1. Make or order your favorite fried chicken pieces.

 

From homemade chicken tenders to your favorite restaurant preparation, there are many scrumptious possibilities for July 6 to choose from! For some menu inspiration on National Fried Chicken Day, Serious Eats offers a collection of over 15 different fried chicken recipes, if you are interested in doing the cooking. Otherwise, for dine-in, carry-out, or delivery, both 3 piece or 5 piece chicken tenders are featured on the Freddy’s menu and available as individual orders or as part of combo meals. A Kid’s Tender Combo that includes two crispy tenders with a choice of sauce, side and a drink is another option for guests 12 and under.

 

2. Experiment with different fried chicken dipping sauces.

 

While the chicken is certainly the star of any meal on National Fried Chicken Day, a delicious dipping sauce for crispy chicken fingers or any other fried chicken preparation can further enhance the overall experience. One idea is to try making your own batches of classic sauces, such as honey mustard or barbecue sauce. As another option, consider picking out some new sauces to try, such as Freddy’s Smoky Fry Sauce®, or prepare a unique variation on a familiar favorite like ranch.

 

3. Savor a fried chicken sandwich.

 

Although fantastic on its own or served with a simple sauce, fried chicken also stands out on a sandwich, such as the Crispy Chicken Club Sandwich or Spicy Chicken Sandwich at Freddy’s. In addition to preparing the chicken itself, the choice of sauce and other toppings can really make or break this type of sandwich. For example, crispy bacon adds another savory, textural element to the Crispy Chicken Club, while the lettuce and tomato add layers of freshness. Mayonnaise and Swiss cheese are also included, providing a welcome creamy component to each bite.

 

4. Add fried chicken to a salad.

 

Feeling the summer heat or just craving some extra veggies with your meal? For a refreshing contrast to warm and crunchy fried chicken, consider enjoying your chicken on top of crisp romaine lettuce, tomato and onion as in the new Crispy Chicken Bowl at Freddy’s. Sprinkled with chopped bacon and both Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, select your favorite dressing to complete your bowl. You can also make this bowl or any bowl into a combo meal.

 

5. Cater fried chicken for a crowd!

 

Skip the math on how many thighs, wings or other chicken pieces that you may need in favor of chicken tender catering for National Fried Chicken Day on July 6 and other celebratory occasions. At Freddy’s, each Chicken Tender Tray provides 25 tenders and a selection of several different dipping sauces, including Freddy’s Famous Fry Sauce®. On our catering menu, you’ll also find our two different fried chicken sandwiches in our collection of 10 different individual lunches.

 

Food holidays like National Fried Chicken Day on July 6 offer the opportunity to appreciate many popular ingredients and dishes. From savory selections like fried chicken to sweeter treats like frozen custard, Freddy’s can help you enjoy a variety of these fun food days or brighten any other day with our extensive menu of options. By joining Freddy’s Rewards, participants have even more reason to celebrate, as they earn 10 points for every dollar they spend when ordering at Freddy’s. Sign up for this program today to start collecting points toward FREE Freddy’s items with every order!