Ah, the sizzle of golden, crispy fried chicken hitting the plate—nothing quite captures the joy of comfort food like it does. Even as we reflect on the summer’s highlights in October 2025, National Fried Chicken Day on July 6 remains a feather-ruffling favorite. This unofficial holiday, celebrated annually on the first Sunday in July, invites fried chicken enthusiasts across the U.S. to indulge without guilt (or at least, with fewer calories burned worrying about the bill). Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Southern-style bone-in buckets or prefer tenders dipped in spicy sauce, 2025 delivered a platter full of mouthwatering deals that made clucking over savings as satisfying as the meal itself.
Chicken Day 2025 is an exciting celebration dedicated to everyone’s favorite crispy and flavorful dish. On Chicken Day 2025, food lovers around the world come together to enjoy delicious chicken meals and special restaurant offers. Many brands mark Chicken Day 2025 with exclusive discounts, new menu items, and fun promotions for chicken fans. Whether you love fried, grilled, or roasted, Chicken Day 2025 is the perfect occasion to indulge in your favorite flavors. Celebrate Chicken Day 2025 with friends and family by savoring the best chicken dishes and making the day truly delicious.
At Trueblue Deals, we’re all about uncovering the hottest offers to keep your wallet as light as air-fried alternatives. In this retrospective roundup, we’ll dive into the best restaurant promotions from National Fried Chicken Day 2025, drawing from nationwide chains and grocery gems. From free sandwiches to discounted buckets, these deals saved savvy diners an estimated $20–$50 per outing. We’ll break it down by category, sprinkle in some history and tips, and link you to more ways to score on everyday eats. Grab a napkin—it’s time to relive the feast!
A Brief History of National Fried Chicken Day: From Scottish Roots to American Icon
Fried chicken’s journey to stardom is as layered as its batter. While many associate it with Southern U.S. cuisine, its origins trace back to 19th-century Scottish immigrants who brought “friars’ chicken”—a simple fry-up of poultry in fat. Enslaved African Americans in the antebellum South elevated it into an art form, incorporating West African seasoning techniques like spicy marinades and dredging in seasoned flour. Post-Civil War, it became a staple at church picnics and family gatherings, symbolizing resilience and community.
Chicken Day 2025 is a special event that celebrates the love for all things chicken, from crispy fried delights to juicy grilled favorites. Food enthusiasts eagerly await Chicken Day 2025 to enjoy exclusive deals and flavorful creations from top restaurants. Many popular brands mark Chicken Day 2025 with exciting offers, making it the perfect time to indulge in your favorite chicken dishes. Whether dining in or ordering out, Chicken Day 2025 brings people together over a shared passion for delicious food. Celebrate Chicken Day 2025 with mouthwatering bites and unbeatable deals that make the day unforgettable.
The modern holiday? It emerged in the 1980s amid a wave of “national days” to boost food sales, though no official proclamation exists. By 2025, it had evolved into a $1.5 billion industry driver, with chains like KFC and Popeyes reporting 20–30% sales spikes on the day. Fun fact: Did you know Colonel Sanders fried his first batch in a pressure cooker during the Great Depression? That innovation cut cooking time from 30 minutes to mere moments, birthing KFC’s empire. Today, July 6 honors not just the bird but the bold flavors that make it irresistible—from classic buttermilk soaks to Nashville hot’s fiery kick.
For more on food holidays that pack a punch, check out our Ultimate Guide to Summer Food Deals, where we spotlight events like Taco Tuesday and Pizza Day.
Chicken Day 2025 is the perfect occasion to celebrate everyone’s favorite comfort food with flavor and fun. Restaurants across the country mark Chicken Day 2025 with irresistible deals, crispy meals, and special combos for chicken lovers. Food enthusiasts look forward to Chicken Day 2025 as a time to enjoy their favorite fried, grilled, or roasted dishes. Whether you’re a fan of spicy wings or tender drumsticks, Chicken Day 2025 offers something delicious for every taste. Gather your friends and family to make Chicken Day 2025 a flavorful celebration filled with mouthwatering moments.
Fast Food Frenzy: The Top 10 Chain Deals That Had Us Lining Up
No National Fried Chicken Day would be complete without fast-food fireworks. In 2025, chains pulled out all the stops, leveraging apps and loyalty programs to lure in crowds. Here’s our curated list of the best offers, ranked by value (savings potential) and ease of redemption. Most required a quick app download, but the payoffs were worth it—think freebies that fed families for under $10.
- KFC: 30% Off 8-Piece Bucket + Free Delivery
The Colonel’s crew dominated with this app-exclusive steal: Rewards members scored 30% off an 8-piece Original Recipe meal (typically $20+), dropping it to about $14, plus zero delivery fees on orders over $10. Valid July 6 only, it was perfect for picnic prep. Pro tip: Pair it with their $7 Fill Up boxes for a full feast under $25. Head to KFC’s site to join Rewards and snag similar ongoing promos. - Popeyes: 3-Piece Signature Chicken for $5 + BOGO Wings
Louisiana’s finest kept it spicy with a $5 three-piece meal (hand-battered tenders or bone-in), available nationwide through July 22. Rewards members added buy-one-get-one free on six-piece spicy bone-in wings—ideal for game-day leftovers. Savings: Up to $15 on a family share. Download the Popeyes app for instant access. - Burger King: Free Royal Crispy Chicken Sandwich with $1 Spend
Royal Perks loyalists got a full sandwich (crispy fillet, pickles, mayo on a brioche bun) gratis with any $1 purchase—like a soda—on July 6. At a $6 retail value, this was a no-brainer for lunch runs. Regional tweaks, like Cleveland’s $5 minimum, varied, but the core deal ruled. Explore more BK hacks in our Fast Food Loyalty Guide. - Church’s Texas Chicken: Free 2-Piece Leg & Thigh with Any Buy
Real Rewards app users redeemed a complimentary spicy or original duo (worth $4) alongside fries or a drink, valid July 6 at participating spots. It couldn’t combine with other deals, but stacking it mentally with everyday value meals saved $10+. Church’s jalapeño cheese bombs were the ultimate sidekick. Visit Church’s website for the app. - Shake Shack: Free Chicken Shack with $10 Purchase
Using code “CHICKENSUNDAY” in the app or at kiosks, diners nabbed a buttermilk-marinated breast sandwich (buttery bun, pickles, ShackSauce) free with $10 spent—every Sunday in July, starting July 6. A $8 value, it turned shakes into full meals. Urbanites raved about the Shack’s crinkle-cut fries pairing. Sign up at Shake Shack. - Jack in the Box: Free Cluck Chicken Sandwich with $5 Order
No membership needed—just a $5 minimum (think curly fries) unlocked this crispy fillet sammy on July 6. Late-night warriors loved the 24/7 access, saving $6 per hit. It’s a staple in our Late-Night Eats Deals. - El Pollo Loco: Free 2-Piece Meal on Next Visit
Loco Rewards buyers of any chicken meal on July 6 earned a gratis leg-and-thigh duo (redeemable July 7–20). Flame-grilled with citrus vibes, it extended the savings streak—$7 value. El Pollo Loco’s rewards make it easy. - Bojangles: Free Bo’s Chicken Sandwich with $5 Spend
App users marked a fave location for this free Southern-style sammy (July 6–11), pairing pickled okra for authenticity. $6 saved, with biscuit bonuses. Southeast fans, this was your jam. - White Castle: BOGO Crispy Chicken Slider
Code “CRISPY” scored buy-one-get-one on these oniony bites through July 6—no app required. Tiny but mighty, saving $2–$3 per duo. Crave more sliders? See our Burger Deals Roundup. - Bonchon: $5 Off $15+ Online Orders
Korean double-fried wings fans used “GET5OFF” for July 4–6 savings on buckets or tenders. Up to 33% off a 50-wing haul. Bonchon’s site delivers the heat.
These deals weren’t just flash sales; they highlighted a trend toward app-integrated perks, with 70% requiring digital sign-ups. Chains like Hardee’s (BOGO $1 sandwiches through July 7) and Pollo Campero (free leg with meal) rounded out honorable mentions, but the top 10 covered coasts to heartland.
Chicken Day 2025 is a flavorful celebration that brings together food lovers from around the world to enjoy the best chicken dishes. Many restaurants highlight Chicken Day 2025 with exclusive discounts, limited-time offers, and special menu creations. Whether you crave crispy fried chicken or juicy grilled pieces, Chicken Day 2025 is the ultimate time to indulge. Families and friends gather on Chicken Day 2025 to share delicious meals and create lasting memories. With its exciting deals and irresistible flavors, Chicken Day 2025 promises to be a feast that no chicken lover should miss.
Grocery Store Steals and Beyond: Stock Up for Home Frying
Not everyone braves drive-thrus—some prefer DIY. Grocery chains stepped up in 2025, turning aisles into deal zones.
- Kroger: 8-Piece Home Chef Fried Chicken for $5.99
With a free Plus card, this ready-to-heat bucket (through July 8) fed four for pennies. At Ralphs or Fred Meyer, it was $6.99—still a 40% markdown. Pair with Kroger’s weekly ads for sides. - Krispy Krunchy Chicken: $5.99 Meal Deal
Gas station staple offered nuggets, tenders, or sandwiches through July 8—no frills, all flavor. Rural road-trippers saved big.
Other notables: Cracker Barrel’s double rewards points on homestyle fried chicken (July 6) and Jollibee’s two free pieces with a 10-piece bucket for newbies (through July 10). For at-home recipes, link to our Easy Fried Chicken Tutorials.
Maximizing Your Cluck: Tips for Future Feasts and Savings Strategies
Missed 2025’s frenzy? No sweat—prep for 2026 with these hacks:
- Layer Loyalty Programs: Apps like KFC Rewards or Popeyes’ stack digital coupons, often yielding 20–50% off. Track them via Trueblue’s App Tracker.
- Timing is Key: Early birds snagged limited freebies; order by noon to avoid sell-outs.
- Go Hybrid: Combine grocery hauls (Kroger buckets) with chain apps for picnics—total savings hit $30+.
- Eco-Tip: Opt for reusable packaging where possible; many chains offered compostable options in 2025.
Health-conscious? Air-fryer versions cut oil by 70%, per USDA guidelines. For more budget bites, browse our Weekly Food Coupons.
Wrapping Up: The Last Bite on a Finger-Lickin’ Holiday
National Fried Chicken Day 2025 wasn’t just about crispy exteriors—it celebrated smart spending amid indulgence. From KFC’s bucket busters to Shake Shack’s sunny steals, these offers fed the nation while fattening savings accounts. As we head into fall, remember: Great deals are year-round at Trueblue Deals.
Chicken Day 2025 is a global celebration that honors the irresistible taste and joy of chicken dishes enjoyed by millions. Food lovers eagerly wait for Chicken Day 2025 to savor exclusive offers, discounts, and limited-edition chicken meals. Restaurants and fast-food chains make Chicken Day 2025 extra special with mouthwatering deals and new menu launches. Whether you love spicy wings, crispy tenders, or juicy drumsticks, Chicken Day 2025 is the perfect time to indulge your cravings. Celebrate Chicken Day 2025 with friends, family, and plenty of delicious bites that make this day unforgettable.
Deals That Had Us Lining Up
No National Fried Chicken Day would be complete without fast-food fireworks. In 2025, chains pulled out all the stops, leveraging apps and loyalty programs to lure in crowds. Here’s our curated list of the best offers, ranked by value (savings potential) and ease of redemption. Most required a quick app download, but the payoffs were worth it—think freebies that fed families for under $10.
- KFC: 30% Off 8-Piece Bucket + Free Delivery
The Colonel’s crew dominated with this app-exclusive steal: Rewards members scored 30% off an 8-piece Original Recipe meal (typically $20+), dropping it to about $14, plus zero delivery fees on orders over $10. Valid July 6 only, it was perfect for picnic prep. Pro tip: Pair it with their $7 Fill Up boxes for a full feast under $25. Head to KFC’s site to join Rewards and snag similar ongoing promos. - Popeyes: 3-Piece Signature Chicken for $5 + BOGO Wings
Louisiana’s finest kept it spicy with a $5 three-piece meal (hand-battered tenders or bone-in), available nationwide through July 22. Rewards members added buy-one-get-one free on six-piece spicy bone-in wings—ideal for game-day leftovers. Savings: Up to $15 on a family share. Download the Popeyes app for instant access. - Burger King: Free Royal Crispy Chicken Sandwich with $1 Spend
Royal Perks loyalists got a full sandwich (crispy fillet, pickles, mayo on a brioche bun) gratis with any $1 purchase—like a soda—on July 6. At a $6 retail value, this was a no-brainer for lunch runs. Regional tweaks, like Cleveland’s $5 minimum, varied, but the core deal ruled. Explore more BK hacks in our Fast Food Loyalty Guide. - Church’s Texas Chicken: Free 2-Piece Leg & Thigh with Any Buy
Real Rewards app users redeemed a complimentary spicy or original duo (worth $4) alongside fries or a drink, valid July 6 at participating spots. It couldn’t combine with other deals, but stacking it mentally with everyday value meals saved $10+. Church’s jalapeño cheese bombs were the ultimate sidekick. Visit Church’s website for the app. - Shake Shack: Free Chicken Shack with $10 Purchase
Using code “CHICKENSUNDAY” in the app or at kiosks, diners nabbed a buttermilk-marinated breast sandwich (buttery bun, pickles, ShackSauce) free with $10 spent—every Sunday in July, starting July 6. A $8 value, it turned shakes into full meals. Urbanites raved about the Shack’s crinkle-cut fries pairing. Sign up at Shake Shack. - Jack in the Box: Free Cluck Chicken Sandwich with $5 Order
No membership needed—just a $5 minimum (think curly fries) unlocked this crispy fillet sammy on July 6. Late-night warriors loved the 24/7 access, saving $6 per hit. It’s a staple in our Late-Night Eats Deals. - El Pollo Loco: Free 2-Piece Meal on Next Visit
Loco Rewards buyers of any chicken meal on July 6 earned a gratis leg-and-thigh duo (redeemable July 7–20). Flame-grilled with citrus vibes, it extended the savings streak—$7 value. El Pollo Loco’s rewards make it easy. - Bojangles: Free Bo’s Chicken Sandwich with $5 Spend
App users marked a fave location for this free Southern-style sammy (July 6–11), pairing pickled okra for authenticity. $6 saved, with biscuit bonuses. Southeast fans, this was your jam. - White Castle: BOGO Crispy Chicken Slider
Code “CRISPY” scored buy-one-get-one on these oniony bites through July 6—no app required. Tiny but mighty, saving $2–$3 per duo. Crave more sliders? See our Burger Deals Roundup. - Bonchon: $5 Off $15+ Online Orders
Korean double-fried wings fans used “GET5OFF” for July 4–6 savings on buckets or tenders. Up to 33% off a 50-wing haul. Bonchon’s site delivers the heat.
These deals weren’t just flash sales; they highlighted a trend toward app-integrated perks, with 70% requiring digital sign-ups. Chains like Hardee’s (BOGO $1 sandwiches through July 7) and Pollo Campero (free leg with meal) rounded out honorable mentions, but the top 10 covered coasts to heartland.
Grocery Store Steals and Beyond: Stock Up for Home Frying
Not everyone braves drive-thrus—some prefer DIY. Grocery chains stepped up in 2025, turning aisles into deal zones.
- Kroger: 8-Piece Home Chef Fried Chicken for $5.99
With a free Plus card, this ready-to-heat bucket (through July 8) fed four for pennies. At Ralphs or Fred Meyer, it was $6.99—still a 40% markdown. Pair with Kroger’s weekly ads for sides. - Krispy Krunchy Chicken: $5.99 Meal Deal
Gas station staple offered nuggets, tenders, or sandwiches through July 8—no frills, all flavor. Rural road-trippers saved big.
Other notables: Cracker Barrel’s double rewards points on homestyle fried chicken (July 6) and Jollibee’s two free pieces with a 10-piece bucket for newbies (through July 10). For at-home recipes, link to our Easy Fried Chicken Tutorials.
Home Kitchen Heroes: Must-Have Products for Fried Chicken Lovers
While restaurant deals stole the show on July 6, 2025, recreating that crispy magic at home became easier than ever with top-rated products. Whether you’re brining a whole bird or air-frying tenders, these essentials—sourced from Amazon best-sellers and expert reviews—elevate your game without the mess of deep-frying. We’ve curated a list of game-changers, focusing on seasonings, kits, and tools that promise restaurant-quality results. Pro tip: Stock up now for National Chicken Wing Day on July 29!
Top Seasonings and Rubs
Seasonings are the secret to Southern soul—bold, balanced, and MSG-free for guilt-free crunch.
- McCormick Culinary Poultry Seasoning (12 oz Jar)
A classic blend of thyme, sage, marjoram, and nutmeg that’s perfect for dredging chicken before frying. No MSG, versatile for rubs or marinades. Amazon best-seller with over 10,000 reviews praising its fresh aroma for holiday roasts or weeknight tenders. Price: ~$8. Shop on Amazon. - Dan-O’s Original Seasoning (2.5 oz Bottle)
Sugar-free, zero-calorie all-purpose magic for chicken, veggies, or burgers. Low-sodium with onion, garlic, and herbs—ideal for spicy Nashville hot twists. Users love it for air-fryer recipes, saving calories without skimping on flavor. Price: ~$6. Get it here. - Southern Fry Kings Chicken Fry Batter Mix (2.25 lbs)
Creole-spiced coating for ultra-crispy pork or chicken—dip, dredge, and fry for that golden crunch. Gluten-free options available; reviewers swear it’s better than takeout. Price: ~$12. Amazon link.
Brining and Kit Essentials
Brining locks in juices for tender results—especially for buckets that rival Jollibee’s award-winning Chickenjoy.
- Kosmos Q Turkey Brine Soak (16 oz Bag)
Brown sugar and Worcestershire-infused mix for whole birds, smoked, roasted, or fried. Easy 1-cup-per-gallon ratio yields savory, moist chicken. Top-rated for beginners; works wonders on tenders too. Price: ~$10. Buy on Amazon. - Lane’s Ultimate Turkey Brine Kit with Bag
Includes 20 oz brine, SPG seasoning, Spellbound rub, and XL brining bags—gluten-free, no MSG. Perfect for flavorful, tender fried chicken; users report 40% juicier results. Price: ~$25. Shop now.
Tools for Effortless Frying
Ditch the oil splatter with these 2025 favorites.
- Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer
Best overall for crispy wings or tenders—cooks 70% faster than traditional ovens with even heat. User-friendly touchscreen; tested to perfection on frozen nuggets. Price: ~$130. Amazon best-seller. - Publix-Style Grocery Fried Chicken Kit (Inspired Home Version)
Not a direct kit, but replicate the fan-fave with this bundle: Pre-seasoned tenders from Walmart’s Freshness Guaranteed line plus a basic dredge station (flour, eggs, breadcrumbs). Affordable and moist—reviewers call it “restaurant-beating.” Price: ~$15 for components. Walmart link.
These products not only complement our restaurant recs but also tie into our Home Cooking Deals section—score 10% off seasonings with code CHICKENDAY25 at checkout on Trueblue Deals!
Maximizing Your Cluck: Tips for Future Feasts and Savings Strategies
Missed 2025’s frenzy? No sweat—prep for 2026 with these hacks:
- Layer Loyalty Programs: Apps like KFC Rewards or Popeyes’ stack digital coupons, often yielding 20–50% off. Track them via Trueblue’s App Tracker.
- Timing is Key: Early birds snagged limited freebies; order by noon to avoid sell-outs.
- Go Hybrid: Combine grocery hauls (Kroger buckets) with chain apps for picnics—total savings hit $30+.
- Eco-Tip: Opt for reusable packaging where possible; many chains offered compostable options in 2025.
Health-conscious? Air-fryer versions cut oil by 70%, per USDA guidelines. For more budget bites, browse our Weekly Food Coupons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About National Fried Chicken Day
Got questions lingering from the 2025 cluck-fest? We’ve rounded up the most common queries based on diner buzz and chain announcements.
Q: When is National Fried Chicken Day celebrated?
A: It’s always the first Sunday in July—the next one is July 5, 2026. Mark your calendar for back-to-back fun with National Chicken Wing Day on July 29!
Q: Do all locations participate in the deals?
A: Most do, but check your local spot via apps or social media. For example, McDonald’s $1 McCrispy Strips were app-exclusive at participating franchises only.
Q: Can I stack deals with loyalty rewards?
A: Often yes—Popeyes let Rewards members add BOGO wings to their $5 meal. Always confirm in-app to avoid glitches.
Q: Are there vegetarian or healthier alternatives?
A: Absolutely! Try air-fried cauliflower “wings” with Dan-O’s seasoning, or chains like Shake Shack offered plant-based ShackMeister options during the holiday.
Q: How can I celebrate at home without deep-frying?
A: Use an air fryer like the Instant Vortex Plus for 70% less oil. Brine with Kosmos Q for juicy results, and dredge in Southern Fry Kings batter.
Q: What’s the most popular fried chicken chain in 2025?
A: Jollibee took the crown for the second year, per USA Today’s 10Best, edging out Chick-fil-A for its crispy Chickenjoy.
For more FAQs on food holidays, visit our Deals Glossary.
Wrapping Up: The Last Bite on a Finger-Lickin’ Holiday
National Fried Chicken Day 2025 wasn’t just about crispy exteriors—it celebrated smart spending amid indulgence. From KFC’s bucket busters to Shake Shack’s sunny steals, these offers fed the nation while fattening savings accounts. As we head into fall, remember: Great deals are year-round at Trueblue Deals.
