Fried Chicken: Best Christmas Picks You Should Try!

Christmas treats in Japan are very diverse and carry a fun Western vibe, and of course, fried chicken is one of them. Today, the Christmas bucket at KFC remains a joyful tradition in Japan, having started over 50 years ago.

Besides KFC, people in Japan also have many other places to enjoy delicious fried chicken during the holidays. Let’s discover how Christmas fried chicken began in Japan and explore the different spots where you can enjoy it.

How did Japan’s Christmas fried chicken trend get started?

Japan’s Christmas fried chicken story begins in the late 1960s, when families started enjoying small Christmas parties at home. In 1970, KFC opened its first store in Nagoya. Later, a visitor at KFC Tokyo joked that he ate fried chicken instead of turkey. His funny comment inspired a bright idea that sparked something new in Japan!

In 1974, KFC introduced its first Christmas set, featuring delicious fried chicken and a bottle of wine for adults. People loved the fun party bucket, so the idea spread across many towns. Families enjoyed opening the bucket together, making the meal feel warm and cheerful. By the late 1970s, the trend grew fast because it felt simple, happy, and perfect for a winter night!

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, KFC added new surprises, such as cute Colonel statues dressed as Santa outside stores, and each year brought Christmas specials, including roast chicken filled with cheese and mushrooms. The brand even opened early reservations each October because so many people wanted the holiday sets. 

Wendy’s First Kitchen

First Kitchen is a popular fast-food brand that began in Tokyo in 1977. It later teamed up with Wendy’s and expanded across Japan. Kids and families love its playful style, colorful stores, and tasty menu that mixes Japanese ideas with American flavors.

Each winter, the brand brings extra joy with its special Christmas fried chicken. The chicken has a crispy outside and a juicy inside that feels warm and comforting. It’s sold during the holiday season, and many people buy fun ticket packs to enjoy it later. Families often choose five-piece or ten-piece packs because they feel perfect for both small and large parties. 

The brand also releases other winter foods that make the visit even more exciting! These holiday treats help Wendy’s First Kitchen become a welcoming stop for families seeking Christmas fun.

Are you looking for amazing snacks to go along with your fried chicken for the winter? Check out TokyoTreat! TokyoTreat delivers limited-edition Japanese noodles, drinks, snacks, and sweets directly to your door, allowing you to enjoy the latest Japanese treats straight from Japan.

Family Mart

Family Mart is a giant convenience store chain that first opened in Japan in 1973. Today, it has more than 24,000 stores worldwide, with numerous shops in countries such as Taiwan, Vietnam, and Indonesia. It’s well-known for its warm meals and fun snacks. 

Near the end of each year, the store makes Christmas extra cheerful with its special fried chicken menu. Families enjoy choosing juicy bone-in chicken seasoned with eighteen spices that create a flavorful taste. Plus, some people also love the flame-roasted chicken leg, which boasts a sweet and spicy flavor.

Family Mart’s Christmas sets feel exciting as they offer a variety of tastes in one happy pack. You can enjoy party boxes that mix bone-in chicken, roasted legs, and boneless pieces for fun sharing. The crunchy batter, strong spices, and soft meat create a warm and playful holiday meal.

Buttermilk Channel Harajuku

Buttermilk Channel made its debut in Brooklyn in 2008 and later brought its warm American spirit to Harajuku in 2018. The restaurant blends cozy American comfort food with gentle French techniques, creating a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere. 

The restaurant is famous for its buttermilk-fried chicken, which stays tender inside and crispy outside thanks to its creamy buttermilk soak. Each plate comes with a cheddar waffle that tastes soft, warm, and slightly sweet. People love pouring the maple balsamic syrup on top, watching the sauce blend with the crunchy chicken to create a new playful flavor. With its charm and amazing fried chicken, this is an excellent pick for a festive and delicious Christmas dinner.

Why should I try Christmas fried chicken at these places?

Tasting Christmas fried chicken at places beyond KFC gives you a chance to explore different flavors and experiences. These variations make holiday meals more playful and memorable for families! Visiting different spots also highlights how Christmas fried chicken has grown into a shared tradition in Japan.

It’s not only about the food, but about enjoying moments together, tasting new recipes, and discovering how simple meals can feel festive. From cozy cafés like Buttermilk Channel to convenience stores, each place offers a unique way to celebrate. Which style of fried chicken would you like to try first for Christmas? Share your favorite in the comments!