Hello Foodie Friends, September is a great opportunity to celebrate one of the most versatile and delicious proteins in the world. Yes, the versatile and beloved poultry bird gets its own month of celebration, and there’s no better time to honor the delicious and nutritious chicken than now. From fried chicken to grilled chicken, from comforting chicken soups to elegant chicken dishes, this month is all about indulging in the flavors of poultry perfection.
So, let’s dive into the world of chicken and discover why September is truly a clucking good time!
National Chicken Month was officially designated in the United States to celebrate and promote the poultry industry. This annual observance, which began in the 1990s, is not just about enjoying delicious meals but also about recognizing the significance of the poultry industry. Chicken production plays a vital role in providing jobs and stimulating the economy. By choosing locally sourced chicken and supporting small-scale farmers and producers, you can contribute to the sustainability of the poultry industry.
One of the reasons chicken is celebrated during September is its unparalleled versatility in the kitchen. It’s the perfect canvas for culinary creativity, adapting to a wide range of flavors and cooking methods. Here are some delightful ways you can enjoy chicken this National Chicken Month and the perfect wine, beer and cocktail pairing for each preparation:
Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is an iconic Southern dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people across the nation and the world. Served with biscuits, coleslaw, and gravy, it’s a comfort food classic. Here are some perfect wine, beer and cocktail pairing options for fried chicken: Sparkling Wine: A dry sparkling wine, such as Champagne, Prosecco, or Cava, is an excellent choice. The effervescence and acidity of these wines cut through the richness of the fried chicken, providing a refreshing contrast. The bubbles cleanse your palate with each sip, making them a perfect pairing. Chardonnay: A buttery and oaked Chardonnay can complement the richness of fried chicken, especially if the dish includes creamy sauces or gravies. The wine’s flavors of apple, pear, and vanilla can harmonize with the crispy texture and savory notes of the chicken. Light Lager: A light lager, like American-style lagers or pilsners, is a classic and refreshing choice for fried chicken. Its clean, crisp taste and moderate carbonation complement the crispy texture of the chicken without overwhelming the palate. Pale Ale: A well-balanced pale ale, with its combination of malt sweetness and hoppy bitterness, can be a great partner for fried chicken. The hops help cut through the fried exterior, while the malt provides a pleasant backdrop for the savory flavors. Classic Margarita: The zesty and tangy flavors of a classic Margarita, made with tequila, triple sec, and fresh lime juice, can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of fried chicken. The salted rim complements the savory aspects of the dish. Moscow Mule: The effervescence and ginger kick of a Moscow Mule, featuring vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice, can cleanse the palate and add a delightful contrast to the fried chicken’s flavors.
Grilled Chicken
Grilling chicken marinated in various herbs, spices, and sauces, is a healthier alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Here are some perfect wine, beer and cocktail pairing options for grilled chicken: Chardonnay: A classic oaked Chardonnay can be a wonderful choice for grilled chicken, especially if it’s marinated or seasoned with herbs and spices. The wine’s buttery texture and flavors of apple, pear, and vanilla complement the grilled chicken’s savory profile. Sauvignon Blanc: Is known for its vibrant acidity and citrusy notes, making it an excellent match for grilled chicken. The wine’s refreshing qualities and herbaceous undertones can enhance the flavors of the dish. Pale Ale: A well-balanced pale ale can be a fantastic choice for grilled chicken. Its malt backbone and hoppy bitterness can complement the smoky flavors from the grill and enhance the savory aspects of the chicken. IPA (India Pale Ale): If your grilled chicken has a bold marinade or a spicy kick, an IPA with its hoppy and citrusy notes can be an excellent pairing. The hops can cut through the flavors and provide a nice contrast. Mojito: A Mojito, featuring white rum, fresh mint leaves, lime juice, sugar, and soda water, is a refreshing choice that can balance the grilled chicken’s richness. The mint and lime add a cool, citrusy dimension. Sangria: Red or white Sangria, with its fruity and aromatic notes, can be a delightful choice to enjoy with grilled chicken. The fruitiness and sweetness can contrast with the smokiness of the dish.
Chicken Wings
Chicken wings are a game-day favorite and a staple at sports bars and gatherings. They come in a variety of flavors, from classic buffalo to honey barbecue, and are typically served with celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing. Here are some perfect wine, beer and cocktail pairing options for chicken wings: Pinot Noir: If you enjoy red wine, a light to medium-bodied Pinot Noir can work with milder chicken wing preparations. Its red fruit flavors and subtle tannins won’t overpower the dish. Sauvignon Blanc: With its bright acidity and herbaceous notes, can work well with tangy or herb-infused chicken wings. It can provide a refreshing contrast to the flavors. Lager: A clean and crisp lager, such as American-style lagers or pilsners, is a classic choice that pairs well with most styles of chicken wings. It’s refreshing qualities can balance the heat and complement the savory flavors. IPA (India Pale Ale): If you enjoy hoppy beers and spicy chicken wings, consider an IPA. The hops can stand up to the heat and add a flavorful contrast. Bloody Mary: If you’re enjoying spicy chicken wings, a Bloody Mary can be a bold and flavorful choice. The tomato juice, vodka, hot sauce, and various spices can stand up to the heat and enhance the overall experience. Paloma: Made with tequila, grapefruit soda, lime juice, and a pinch of salt, offers a bright and citrusy profile that complements various chicken wing flavors, particularly those with citrus or spice.
Chicken Tenders or Nuggets
Loved by kids and adults alike, chicken tenders and nuggets are bite-sized pieces of chicken that are breaded and deep-fried to perfection. They’re often served with an array of dipping sauces, making them a versatile and convenient choice. Here are some perfect wine, beer and cocktail pairing options for chicken tenders or nuggets: Chardonnay (Unoaked): An unoaked Chardonnay offers clean and crisp flavors that won’t overwhelm the delicate taste of chicken tenders. Look for one with apple, pear, and citrus notes. Champagne: For a truly indulgent pairing, you can’t go wrong with Champagne. The effervescence and elegance of Champagne can elevate the experience of enjoying chicken tenders or nuggets, making it a delightful treat. American Lager: A classic American lager is a reliable choice to pair with chicken tenders or nuggets. Its light and crisp profile complements the crispy texture of the chicken, while the mild maltiness provides a neutral backdrop to the flavors. Pilsner: A Czech or German pilsner offers a bit more hop bitterness and complexity compared to American lagers. The crispness and subtle bitterness can enhance the experience of eating chicken tenders, especially when served with a dipping sauce. Gin and Tonic: A classic Gin and Tonic, with its botanical notes and effervescence, can be a straightforward and refreshing choice for chicken tenders. The herbal and citrusy qualities can complement the dish without overwhelming it. Beer Cocktail (Michelada): If you prefer beer with your chicken tenders, consider a beer cocktail like a Michelada. This Mexican-inspired concoction combines beer, lime juice, hot sauce, and spices for a unique and flavorful pairing.
Roasted Chicken
Roast chicken is a timeless and elegant dish enjoyed by many. Whole chickens are seasoned with herbs, spices, and often stuffed with aromatics like garlic and lemon. Roast chicken is often served with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes. Here are some perfect wine, beer and cocktail pairing options for roasted chicken: Pinot Noir: With its red fruit flavors like cherry and raspberry and its silky texture, is a versatile choice for roasted chicken. It provides a balanced pairing that won’t overpower the dish. Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp and herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc can offer a refreshing contrast to the roasted flavors of chicken. Its bright acidity and citrus notes can complement the dish, especially if it’s seasoned with herbs. Pilsner: A crisp and refreshing pilsner is a classic choice for roasted chicken. Its clean malt profile and subtle hop bitterness won’t overpower the dish and can cleanse the palate between bites. Amber Ale: An amber ale offers a balanced malt sweetness and a touch of caramelization that can harmonize with the roasted flavors of the chicken. It’s a great choice for a heartier preparation. Old Fashioned: With its simple combination of whiskey, sugar, and bitters, can be a great pairing for roasted chicken, especially if the dish is prepared with rich, savory sauces. The whiskey’s complexity matches the depth of the flavors. Spicy Margarita: If your roasted chicken has a spicy kick, a Spicy Margarita made with tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and a slice of jalapeño can be a bold and flavorful pairing.
Savor Our City offers a “Perfect Pairings experience” where we can arrange for a local experienced wine or beer aficionado, or mixologist to come to one’s home and provide a unique educational tasting/pairing experience. For more information about this experience, visit our Experiences page.
As September unfolds, don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate National Chicken Month by indulging in your favorite chicken dishes and exploring new ones. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast, a health-conscious eater, or simply someone who loves a good meal, chicken offers something for everyone. So, gather your family and friends, fire up the grill, or visit your favorite chicken joint, and together let’s make this National Chicken Month a clucking good time!
Until we eat (and drink) again…
I send you Delicious Wishes, xo
Denise
