On July 6th, the world celebrates the World Fried Chicken Day, a dish that has transcended being just a craving to become an empire: its global industry is valued at over $40 billion annually. Whether in a bucket, as wings, in a sandwich, or with habanero aioli at an upscale restaurant, fried chicken reigns across almost all continents—especially in Mexico.
Fried Chicken: More Than Just Fast Food
Crispy, juicy, and with that comforting warmth, fried chicken is more than just fast food; it’s an emotional recipe, a universal one, and—according to data from firms like IBISWorld and Research and Markets—one of the most lucrative in the world. That golden crust moves economies, generates millions of jobs, and fuels an ecosystem ranging from global franchises to dark kitchens.
Mexico: The Land of Crunchy Chicken
In Mexico, fried chicken isn’t a trend; it’s devotion. With an annual per capita consumption of 34.7 kg, one of the highest in the world, poultry represents 60% of animal protein consumed in the country. This preference has fostered a growing market where fried chicken is the star.
KFC Mexico, with around 400 outlets, has led the sector for decades. Following are Church’s Texas Chicken, with 119 active outlets, and Popeyes, which by June 2025 has already amassed 42 outlets in operation. KFC alone has managed to sell up to 6 million pieces in a single day, illustrating the national appetite for this dish.
Gourmet, Street-Style, or in a Bucket: Fried Chicken Reinvents Itself
The fried chicken fever in Mexico has crossed the boundaries of fast food and reached the menus of high-end restaurants. Establishments like Somsaa—with its Thai version infused with lemongrass and fermented chilies—or La Cocina del Bizco, serving it in a homemade craft beer sauce, reinterpret the dish without losing its signature crunch.
Here, the recipe gets a Mexican twist: marinated with citrus fruits, coated in dried chilies, served with mole or adobo sauces. Fried chicken has evolved from a quick meal to a vehicle for creativity. It’s in sandwiches, bowls, toasts, tacos, and even tasting menus.
A Gold Mine Crackling with Success
Every bite is a test. That glorious crunch as the crust breaks is the sound of a thriving industry. With $40 billion at stake, and millions of orders each week, fried chicken has solidified its global reign. In Mexico, it’s more than a fad; it’s a constant. From the family bucket to the chef’s table, fried chicken is an integral part of our diet. And yes, this July 6th, it has its very own day.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the global value of the fried chicken industry? The global fried chicken industry is valued at over $40 billion annually.
- Why is fried chicken so popular in Mexico? In Mexico, fried chicken is deeply ingrained in the culture with a high annual per capita consumption of 34.7 kg, representing 60% of animal protein consumed in the country.
- Which brands dominate the fried chicken market in Mexico? KFC Mexico, Church’s Texas Chicken, and Popeyes lead the market with numerous outlets across the country.
- How has fried chicken evolved beyond fast food? Fried chicken has transcended fast food to become a gourmet experience, with high-end restaurants offering creative interpretations of the dish.
- What is the significance of World Fried Chicken Day? World Fried Chicken Day, celebrated on July 6th, acknowledges the global impact and popularity of fried chicken.
