Wine probably isn’t the first drink you think of when you think of fried chicken but those who’ve tried it know what a happy marriage it is. Fried chicken is cooked in different ways across the world, from Southern Fried style to Japanese Tempura style, and you can absolutely find the perfect wine for any fried chicken dish.
Sparkling wines effortlessly slice through oils and fats in the chicken, and those gorgeous bubbles refresh between each bite, but there are also still wines that work too! Let’s dive into the indulgent mix of fried chicken and wine...
CHAMPAGNE – for southern fried chicken
Les Pionniers Brut Champagne
A favourite of ours that we’ve mentioned on the podcast before, Champagne isn’t just for washing down the likes of caviar, it also goes incredibly well with fried chicken! You probably wouldn’t put this ‘high-low’ pairing together, but why the hell not, that’s what we say. Zesty acidity and fizzing bubbles cut through perfectly, and the brioche yeastiness pairs with the umami flavour nicely too. Fried chicken will carry intense flavours and spices, so don’t splash out on an expensive fizz – this Co-op sparkler (like most of their others) is incredibly good value with a gorgeous creamy structure.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £21.25
CAVA – for tempura style chicken
Sainsbury's Cava Brut
When it comes to pairing wine with fried chicken, there is absolutely no need to splash out. Good quality Cava is made using the same method as Champagne but instead used local grapes like Paradella, Macabeo and Xarel-lo. You’ll find it’s packed full of zesty citrus, with a more savoury and tropical-led profile than something like Champagne. Its fresh, fruity and fizzy vibrance cleanses the palate wonderfully setting you up for another delicious bite.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £6
PROSECCO – for spicier chicken
Graham Norton’s Own Prosecco DOC NV
Whether it’s buffalo wings, Nashville style, or Korean chicken, lots of fried chicken packs some heat, and so long as it’s not blow-your-head-off spice, bubbles with a touch of sweetness helps. Pick out a wonderfully light expression like this, and it’s gorgeously refreshing alongside a feast.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.2%
Find here: £12
RIESLING – for lighter chicken
Reichsrat von Buhl - Riesling Trocken 2021
We always look to off-dry Riesling when matching with difficult and intense dishes. Whatever the cuisine, Riesling is the reliable and adaptable all-rounder. Pick out a highly acidic and crisp German Riesling like this one to cut through grease and spice, providing bone-dry refreshment in between bites.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £14.95
Sauvignon Blanc – for traditional fried chicken
Co-op Fairtrade Irresistible Sauvignon Blanc
Loved around the world, a glass of Sauvignon tends to be pretty food-friendly and works particularly well with classic fried chicken. Those signature zesty, savoury, and herbaceous notes mirror the food, emphasising the citrus and herbs in the seasoning. Robust acidity refreshes the palate too, making Sauvignon Blanc a fantastic bubble-free alternative.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £6.85
The right drinks accompaniment can truly make or break a meal, so check out other guides including Indian, Thai, Mexican and Sushi!