Fried Chicken in Denver for Christmas :
Christmas in Denver is a magical time, with snow-capped mountains, festive lights, and a delicious array of food that brings families and friends together. While turkey, ham, and stuffing may take center stage in traditional holiday meals, there’s one dish that’s making waves in Denver during the festive season – fried chicken. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it from a local restaurant or whip up your own at home, fried chicken in Denver for Christmas is a flavorful and fun option for your holiday feast.
In this article, we’ll explore the best places to find fried chicken in Denver, provide tips on making your own crispy masterpiece, and offer some creative ways to serve fried chicken at your Christmas dinner. We’ll also link to useful resources, such as recipes and cooking guides, to help you on your journey.
Why Fried Chicken is the Perfect Christmas Dish in Denver
While fried chicken might not be the first thing you think of when planning your Christmas dinner, it’s quickly becoming a holiday favorite in Denver. The city’s vibrant food scene, influenced by Southern cooking and diverse culinary traditions, has led to a surge in popularity for fried chicken, especially during the holidays. The crispy, golden texture and juicy, flavorful meat make it a perfect alternative to traditional holiday meats like turkey or ham.
1. Comforting and Hearty
Fried chicken offers a satisfying, comforting meal that pairs perfectly with the cold winter weather in Denver. Imagine biting into a crispy piece of chicken, dipped in your favorite holiday sauce, and enjoying it with mashed potatoes, gravy, and a side of greens. It’s a hearty dish that provides warmth and nourishment, making it ideal for Christmas celebrations.
2. Versatility
Fried chicken is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a main dish, added to sandwiches, or made into a holiday feast with a variety of sides. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, fried chicken can be customized to suit every taste and preference.
3. Great for Sharing
Christmas is a time for gatherings, and fried chicken is perfect for family-style meals. Whether you’re hosting a large group of relatives or enjoying a quiet evening with close friends, fried chicken is easy to share. It’s a fun and interactive meal that everyone can enjoy, making it a great choice for holiday parties.
Where to Find the Best Fried Chicken in Denver During Christmas
If you’re not in the mood to cook, Denver has plenty of restaurants that serve up some of the best fried chicken in the city. Here are a few top spots you should check out this Christmas:
1. Birdcall
Birdcall is known for its crispy, juicy fried chicken and innovative take on fast food. Their mission is to serve fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a sustainable and eco-friendly way. Located in the heart of Denver, Birdcall serves a range of fried chicken options, from classic pieces to sandwiches and bowls. Their Christmas specials often include seasonal sides that pair perfectly with their fried chicken, making it a must-visit during the holiday season.
External Link: Birdcall Official Website
2. The Post Chicken & Beer
The Post Chicken & Beer is a popular spot in Denver, known for its mouth-watering fried chicken and craft beers. The restaurant offers a variety of fried chicken styles, including their famous “Spicy Fried Chicken.” For the holidays, they often feature special holiday dishes like fried chicken with honey butter and seasonal sides. Whether you’re planning a festive family meal or a casual holiday dinner, The Post Chicken & Beer is a great place to enjoy fried chicken in Denver.
3. Denver Biscuit Company
Denver Biscuit Company is a local favorite, serving up delicious fried chicken on buttery, flaky biscuits. Their “Chicken & Biscuit” dish is a fan favorite, combining the rich flavors of fried chicken with the softness of freshly baked biscuits. During Christmas, they often offer seasonal variations of this dish, making it a fantastic option for your holiday meal.
4. Rosie’s Chicken Shack
Rosie’s Chicken Shack serves fried chicken in a variety of ways, from classic fried chicken to chicken tenders and sandwiches. They focus on using high-quality ingredients, and their fried chicken is known for its perfect crispiness and juicy interior. Rosie’s also offers a range of sides that complement their fried chicken, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and cornbread. During Christmas, Rosie’s offers family-sized meals that are perfect for sharing with loved ones.
How to Make Fried Chicken for Your Christmas Feast in Denver
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to make fried chicken for your Christmas dinner at home, we’ve got you covered. Below is a simple and delicious recipe for crispy fried chicken that will impress your guests this holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or wings)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This marination step ensures the chicken remains moist and flavorful. - Prepare the Flour Mixture
In another bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give the chicken a crispy, flavorful coating. - Heat the Oil
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy skillet over medium heat. The oil should reach around 350°F (175°C). - Coat the Chicken
Take each piece of chicken out of the buttermilk marinade and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. - Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry them for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. - Drain and Serve
Once the chicken is crispy and cooked, place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve with your favorite holiday sides and enjoy!
Internal Link: For more holiday recipes, visit Recipesify Fried Chicken Recipes.
Pairing Fried Chicken with Christmas Sides
No Christmas dinner is complete without the right sides to complement the main dish. Here are some side dishes that go perfectly with fried chicken and will elevate your holiday feast:
1. Mashed Potatoes
A classic side for fried chicken, mashed potatoes are creamy and comforting. You can make them with butter, cream, and garlic for added flavor.
2. Collard Greens
Southern-style collard greens are a great way to balance out the richness of fried chicken. The slightly bitter greens provide a fresh contrast to the crispy, fried chicken.
3. Cornbread
Cornbread adds a slightly sweet, soft texture that pairs well with the savory, crunchy chicken. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for extra flavor.
4. Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a crowd favorite and pairs perfectly with fried chicken. The creamy, cheesy pasta complements the crispy texture of the chicken.
Conclusion: Celebrate Christmas with Fried Chicken in Denver
This Christmas, why not try something a little different and serve up some fried chicken at your holiday feast? Whether you’re enjoying it at one of Denver’s top restaurants or making it at home with your family, fried chicken is a delicious and festive dish that will satisfy your guests and bring a new twist to your holiday traditions.
If you’re looking for more fried chicken recipes or other holiday meal ideas, head over to Recipesify, where we share a variety of recipes perfect for every occasion.
