(Monthly) National Chicken Month

Celebrated on 09/01/2026

Quick Fact

Chicken is the most consumed meat in the United States, with the average American eating over 90 pounds of chicken per year. National Chicken Month was established in 1989 by the National Chicken Council to celebrate the versatility and affordability of chicken.

Origins and Establishment of (Monthly) National Chicken Month

National Chicken Month was established in 1989 by the National Chicken Council, a trade association representing the U.S. chicken industry. The goal was to promote chicken consumption during September, which coincides with the end of summer grilling season and the start of fall cooking. The month-long celebration was designed to highlight chicken's affordability, nutritional benefits, and versatility in recipes.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, National Chicken Month has grown into a widely recognized observance, with retailers, restaurants, and food bloggers participating through special promotions, recipes, and events. In recent years, the focus has expanded to include not just traditional chicken dishes but also global cuisines and innovative preparations like air-frying and sous-vide. Social media campaigns using hashtags like #NationalChickenMonth have further amplified the celebration.

Facts & General Observations

• Americans consume more than 9 billion chickens per year, making chicken the most popular meat in the U.S.
• Chicken production has increased by over 1,000% since 1960, driven by demand for lean protein.
• September was chosen for National Chicken Month because it marks the peak of chicken consumption due to back-to-school lunches and tailgating season.

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