About National Chicken Finger Day
What is National Chicken Finger Day?
Every year on July 27, food lovers across the country unite to honor one of the undisputed champions of comfort food: the chicken finger.
Whether you call them tenders, strips, or goujons, these crispy, golden-brown strips of seasoned white meat chicken have carved out a special place in American culinary culture.
National Chicken Finger Day is all about taking a moment to appreciate this amazingly versatile dish—and, of course, indulging in a basket full of your favorite hot, crunchy tenders paired with a delicious assortment of dipping sauces!
Did you know? True chicken fingers are made from the inner tenderloin muscle of the chicken breast, known as the pectoralis minor. Because there are only two tenderloins per chicken, they are naturally the most tender piece of poultry you can eat!
The History of National Chicken Finger Day
While chicken tenders became popular in American diners and fast-food joints during the late 20th century, the official holiday was established much more recently.
Todd Graves, the founder of the popular fast-food chain Raising Cane's, created National Chicken Finger Day back in 2010.
When Graves first proposed opening a restaurant that served exclusively chicken finger meals in 1996, business professors told him it would never succeed. Proving the doubters wrong, Raising Cane's grew into a massive nationwide success.
To celebrate the fan-favorite menu item and thank their loyal customers, Graves created the holiday.
Did you know? Raising Cane's has given away well over one million free chicken fingers to customers on National Chicken Finger Day since the holiday was first created.
How to Celebrate National Chicken Finger Day
Getting involved in National Chicken Finger Day is as easy as it is tasty! Here are some fun ways you can join in the celebration:
Hunt down deals: Check out local chicken joints and national fast-food chains on July 27. Many restaurants run special promotions, free giveaways, or buy-one-get-one deals in honor of the day.
Host a dipping sauce tasting: Gather your friends and family for a tender feast! Set up a dipping station featuring classic choices like honey mustard, barbecue, garlic parmesan, ranch, and spicy buffalo.
Make them homemade: Try making your own chicken tenders from scratch. Dip chicken breast strips in seasoned flour, buttermilk, and panko breadcrumbs, then fry or air-fry them until golden and crispy!
Share the love on social media: Post photos of your ultimate chicken finger platter using hashtags like #NationalChickenFingerDay and #ChickenFingers.
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