Fried Chicken & Freedom: Honouring Juneteenth Through the Foods That Tell Its Story

June 16, 2025

On June 19, 1865, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed, enslaved African Americans in Texas were finally told they were free. This date, now known as Juneteenth, marks a turning point in U.S. history — the day slavery truly ended.

More than just a historical moment, Juneteenth is a cultural celebration. Across the country and beyond, families come together to commemorate it with music, storytelling, and food that carries deep ancestral memory.

One dish you’ll almost always find on the Juneteenth table? Fried chicken.

Why Fried Chicken Matters 🍗

Fried chicken is a dish with roots in survival, skill, and resilience. During slavery, Black cooks often had limited access to ingredients yet managed to create meals full of flavour and comfort. Chicken, which could be raised and cooked without expensive equipment, became a core ingredient.

Through skillful seasoning and frying techniques passed down generations, fried chicken evolved into a dish of pride! Nourishing bodies and spirits during both hard times and moments of celebration.

On Juneteenth, it isn’t just food, it’s a statement of freedom, dignity, and joy.

Simple Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

Here’s a classic version you can try, in honour of Juneteenth. Serve it proudly!

Ingredients:

· 8 chicken drumsticks or thighs (skin-on, bone-in)

· 2 cups buttermilk

· 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)

· 2 cups all-purpose flour

· 1 tsp salt

· 1 tsp garlic powder

· 1 tsp smoked paprika

· ½ tsp black pepper

· ½ tsp cayenne (adjust to taste)

· Cooking oil (enough for shallow or deep frying)

Instructions:

1. Marinate. In a large bowl or ziplock bag, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours).

2. Prep the Coating. In another bowl, mix flour, salt, garlic powder, paprika, pepper, and cayenne.

3. Coat the Chicken. Remove chicken from the marinade (don’t pat dry). Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing gently so it sticks well.

4. Fry. Heat oil in a deep pan (cast iron works best for even frying). Fry chicken in batches for 10–12 minutes, turning once, until golden and cooked through.

5. Drain. Remove and place on a tray lined with FoodWrapz ChefBake Non-stick paper to absorb excess oil.

6. Serve & Celebrate. Serve hot, with cornbread, collard greens, or a glass of red drink!