National Chicken Month

History & origins

National Chicken Month is an informal September observance in the United States that highlights chicken as food, livestock, and a backyard animal. Its exact founder is unclear, and no single official proclamation is commonly tied to its start. The month is broadly promoted by poultry and food calendars, including chicken industry education efforts that use September to spotlight chicken’s role in American agriculture and dining.

Why it matters

National Chicken Month matters because chicken is one of the most important proteins in the U.S. diet and a major part of the poultry economy. It also brings attention to how chickens are raised, processed, and kept in backyards, which connects food choices with agriculture, animal care, and sustainability.

How to celebrate

Visit a local farm or petting zoo. Learn about chicken breeds and care. Consider raising backyard chickens (if permitted). Support local farmers. Try new chicken recipes. Learn about sustainable farming practices.

Facts

• Americans consume over 95 pounds of chicken per person annually
• There are more chickens than people in the world
• Chickens were domesticated over 8,000 years ago
• Backyard chicken keeping is growing in popularity in American cities
• Chickens are highly social and intelligent birds