November has arrived, bringing with it the crisp air of autumn and the anticipation of the holiday season. While many of us are gearing up for Thanksgiving feasts and Christmas celebrations, there’s another delicious occasion to mark on your calendars: National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day on November 9.
This day is dedicated to celebrating one of America’s favorite comfort foods—the fried chicken sandwich. To honor this culinary delight, several popular restaurant chains are offering mouthwatering deals that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a fried chicken aficionado or just looking for a tasty meal, these deals are sure to make your day a little brighter.
A Brief History of National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day
Before we dive into the deals, let’s take a moment to appreciate how National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day came to be. Unlike holidays steeped in centuries of tradition, this day is a relatively recent creation. It emerged as a marketing event, likely introduced by the restaurant industry to celebrate the soaring popularity of the fried chicken sandwich.
The fried chicken sandwich has been a staple in American cuisine for decades, but it wasn’t until 2019 that it truly took center stage.
That year, Popeyes introduced its own chicken sandwich, igniting what became known as the “chicken sandwich wars.” Competing chains like Chick-fil-A, Wendy’s, and McDonald’s jumped into the fray, each claiming superiority.
The rivalry garnered massive attention on social media, fueling a surge in demand for fried chicken sandwiches across the country. In response, National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day became an opportunity for restaurants to showcase their offerings and engage with customers through special promotions.
Top 5 Deals for National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day
While specific offers for 2024 have yet to be officially announced, based on previous years, here are five deals you can look forward to:
1. McDonald’s: McCrispy Chicken Sandwich for Just $2
McDonald’s is known for its iconic burgers, but their chicken sandwiches have also carved out a loyal following. On November 9, you can score the chain’s McCrispy chicken sandwich for just $2. This deal is a fantastic way to enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. The McCrispy features a tender, juicy chicken fillet with a crispy coating, topped with crinkle-cut pickles, and served on a toasted buttered potato roll.
But that’s not all. If you’re in the mood for something different, McDonald’s is running a McNugget deal through December 2, where you can get a 10-piece order for just $1. And don’t forget about Free Fry Fridays—enjoy free medium fries with any $1 purchase every Friday for the rest of the year. These deals are typically available through the McDonald’s app, so make sure to download it and sign up to take advantage.
2. Popeyes: Free Chicken Sandwich with a $10 Purchase
Popeyes wouldn’t be the same without its famous chicken sandwich, which played a pivotal role in the chicken sandwich wars. To celebrate National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day, Popeyes is offering a free Chicken Sandwich with any $10 minimum purchase through the Popeyes app for mobile order pick-up and delivery. This promotion runs through November 10 and includes their new Ghost Pepper Sandwich, the Classic, and the Spicy versions.
The Popeyes Chicken Sandwich is renowned for its buttermilk-battered and hand-breaded white meat chicken, served on a toasted brioche bun with pickles and your choice of classic mayo or spicy Cajun spread. It’s a deal that’s hard to resist, especially if you’re a fan of bold flavors.
3. Jollibee: BOGO Chicken Sandwich for Loyalty Members
If you’re looking to try something different, Jollibee, a popular Filipino fast-food chain, is joining the celebration with a Buy One, Get One Free deal on its chicken sandwiches. On November 9, loyalty program members can snag this offer through the app. This applies to both the regular and spicy versions of their chicken sandwich.
Jollibee’s sandwich features a marinated, hand-breaded chicken breast that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, topped with garlic aioli sauce and fresh lettuce, all nestled between a soft brioche bun. If you’re not already a member of their loyalty program, there’s still time to sign up and enjoy this tasty deal.
4. Wing Snob: Chicken Sando Meal for $9.99
Wing Snob, best known for its flavorful wings and an array of dipping sauces, is celebrating National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day with a special offer. For one day only, you can enjoy any of their freshly made Chicken Sandos, paired with fries and a drink, for just $9.99. Normally, this meal costs between $12.79 and $13.99, depending on the sandwich.
Their Chicken Sando options include the Buffalo Ranch Chicken Sando, featuring crispy chicken tossed in buffalo sauce with ranch dressing, and the Mac Daddy Chicken Sando, which combines fried chicken with creamy mac and cheese. This deal is perfect for those looking to indulge in a hearty meal at a discounted price.
5. Chick-fil-A: BOGO Chicken Sandwich During Lunch Hours
Chick-fil-A has long been a favorite for its classic chicken sandwich. On November 9, the chain is offering a Buy One, Get One Free deal on its chicken sandwiches between the hours of 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.—just in time for lunch. Both the regular and spicy varieties are included in this promotion.
Known for its seasoned, hand-breaded chicken breast served on a toasted, buttered bun with dill pickle chips, Chick-fil-A’s sandwich is a staple for many. This deal provides the perfect opportunity to share with a friend or enjoy a double serving of your favorite sandwich.
While the top five deals are certainly exciting, other chains have historically participated in National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day with their own promotions:
- Burger King: In previous years, Burger King offered a free Royal Crispy Chicken Sandwich with orders of $5 or more placed through their app or online. Keep an eye on their app for any similar deals this year.
- KFC: The famous Kentucky Fried Chicken chain has provided free delivery on orders placed via their app or website, as well as discounts on chicken sandwiches through delivery platforms like DoorDash and Uber Eats.
Why the Fried Chicken Sandwich Craze?
National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day doesn’t have a deep historical background but has quickly become a beloved food holiday. Its inception is tied closely to the surge in popularity of fried chicken sandwiches following the 2019 chicken sandwich wars. This friendly competition among fast-food giants captured the nation’s attention and highlighted the fried chicken sandwich as a cultural phenomenon.
The day serves as a marketing opportunity for restaurants to showcase their offerings and engage with customers through special deals and promotions. It’s a testament to how a simple menu item can ignite a nationwide craze and become a staple in American fast-food culture.
The allure of the fried chicken sandwich lies in its simplicity and comfort. A perfect blend of crispy, juicy chicken nestled in a soft bun, often complemented by pickles, sauces, and other toppings, creates a satisfying and flavorful experience.
The 2019 chicken sandwich wars not only sparked competition but also innovation, leading to new variations and improvements in quality across the board.
Social media played a significant role in amplifying the craze. Platforms like Twitter and Instagram buzzed with debates, memes, and reviews, turning the sandwich into a viral sensation. The hype led to long lines at restaurants, sold-out menus, and a renewed focus on this classic item.
Tips to Enjoy the Deals
To make the most of National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day, consider the following tips:
- Download Restaurant Apps: Many of these deals require ordering through the restaurant’s app. Download them in advance and create an account to save time.
- Check Participation: Offers may vary by location. Confirm that your local restaurant is participating to avoid disappointment.
- Plan Your Visit: Some deals are time-specific, like Chick-fil-A’s lunch hours promotion. Plan accordingly to ensure you don’t miss out.
- Invite Friends: Share the experience with friends or family. BOGO deals are perfect for enjoying a meal together.
- Stay Updated: Follow your favorite restaurants on social media for real-time updates on promotions and any additional deals.
National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day is more than just a marketing gimmick; it’s a celebration of a beloved comfort food that brings people together. Whether you’re a loyal fan of a particular chain or eager to try something new, this day offers a chance to indulge in delicious sandwiches at great prices.
So, mark your calendar for November 9 and prepare your taste buds for a feast. With these fantastic deals, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy your favorite fried chicken sandwiches or discover a new favorite. After all, what’s better than celebrating a national food holiday with a crispy, juicy sandwich in hand?
Happy National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day!
