Featuring succulent meat beneath crispy, savory skin, fried chicken is among the most widely beloved comfort foods in the U.S. If you're a fan of this dish, knowing more about it might make chicken dinners even more enjoyable when you dine at a homestyle restaurant. Here are a handful of fascinating facts about this staple of American cuisine. 

What Might People Be Surprised to Learn About Fried Chicken?

1. It Has Debatable Origins 

Though popularized in the American South, fried chicken may have origins in Scotland. The Scots had a tradition of pan-frying chicken, which deviated from the English preparation methods of roasting or boiling the meat. When Scottish settlers migrated to the U.S., they brought this dish with them. However, West Africans also have a long history of frying foods in hot oil, and African slaves working in Southern kitchens likely introduced their version of the dish to the U.S. 

2. It Was Once Reserved for Special Occasions 

By the turn of the 20th century, fried chicken had become popular throughout the South and began spreading to other parts of the U.S. However, before World War II, chicken dinners were primarily enjoyed only on special occasions since spring chickens were in short supply and fats used for deep-frying were expensive. However, when American restaurants and fast-food eateries began preparing fried chicken in the mid-1900s, the dish became more widely accessible and affordable.

3. The South Perfected It 

Despite disputes about its exact origins, the crispy, golden-brown chicken we know and love today was perfected in the American South. The first recipe appeared in The Virginia Housewife, or Methodical Cook, published in 1825. It called for salting cut-up pieces of chicken, dredging them in flour, then deep-frying them in lard. African slaves working in Southern kitchens likely improved upon the dish by incorporating savory spices into the batter and frying the meat in oil, giving it even more flavor and a crispier texture.

4. Versions of It Exist Worldwide 

Fried chicken is now beloved throughout the world, and nearly every culture has its own take on the dish. For instance, the Japanese cut chicken into smaller pieces before dredging it in tempura batter, frying it, and serving it with soy sauce. In Korea, chefs twice-fry the meat to create an even crunchier crust before serving the chicken with sweet and spicy sauce. Thai cooks marinate chicken in fish sauce, pepper, and herbs before battering, frying, and serving it with sticky rice.

The next time you're in the mood for delicious fried chicken, head to Lee's Chicken Restaurant. Located in Lincoln, NE, this American restaurant provides Southern-fried chicken dinners for hungry patrons throughout Lincoln County. Call (402) 477-4339 to place an order for lunch or dinner, or visit the website to view the menu of appetizers, entrées, and daily specials.