You might think that fried chicken is an indulgent comfort food best saved for special occasions, but there’s far more to this delicious dish than just a crispy coating and a juicy bite. Boasting a surprisingly global history and impressive nutritional value, fried chicken has definitely earned its place on menus – and plates – around the world.
Whether you enjoy it as a special treat, a quick meal, or something to share with friends and family, here are a few things you might not know about this much-loved classic – and why Zan Fish offers some of the best fried chicken in Derby.
Things you might not know about fried chicken
Most people associate fried chicken with its variety of delicious flavours and its convenience as a quick, tasty meal, but did you know that this humble dish possesses a rich culinary history and nutritional value as well? Here are a few surprising facts that might just change how you think about fried chicken:
A dish with global roots
Although fried chicken as we know it today is often linked to the American South, the technique of frying chicken actually dates back centuries. The Scottish were amongst the first Europeans to deep-fry chicken in fat with breadcrumbs and seasonings, as evidenced by 18th-century entries into cookbooks and diaries – a method they later brought with them across the Atlantic as Europeans began sailing to the ‘new world’. Many West African cultures also recorded a history of deep-frying seasoned chicken in palm oil, which were combined with Scottish and European traditions in America to create what we now recognise as southern-fried chicken – meat battered and fried in fat, coated with the African seasonings that were familiar to enslaved peoples.
Today, fried chicken is enjoyed worldwide, from Japanese karaage to Korean double-fried chicken, proving that crispy chicken is loved across cultures.
Is fried chicken really that bad for you?
Fried chicken has earned a bit of a bad reputation, but like most foods, it’s all about balance and moderation. Chicken is a high-quality protein, helping to support muscle repair, energy levels, and keeping you fuller for longer.
It also naturally contains key nutrients such as vitamins B6 and B12, niacin, selenium, and phosphorus, which support everything from energy metabolism to immune and bone health. Enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet and prepared using healthier methods such as oven baking, fried chicken can absolutely have its place.
Why fried chicken is the ultimate comfort food
There’s a reason fried chicken is loved across generations and cultures. It’s familiar, satisfying, and often linked to good times - whether that’s a treat day, sharing food with friends and family, or grabbing something quick that truly hits the spot. Historically, fried chicken was a rare favourite amongst African communities in the American South reserved for special occasions, making its status as a beloved feel-good food special even today.
It’s not just about the flavour - it’s about the comfort, nostalgia, and feel-good factor that comes with every bite.
Introducing Zan Fish’s new chicken fillets
Our new fillets are perfect for any appetite:
- 1 fillet - £2.25
- 3 fillets - £4.55
- 5 fillets - £7.45
Go solo, share with friends, or treat yourself to the full five - however you enjoy them, each fillet is golden, crispy, and full of flavour.
Meal deals that hit the spot
Want to go bigger? Try our meal deal:
3 fillets + chips & a side – £8.95
Or for something a little handier, grab a chicken fillet wrap - £6.45 (add chips for £1.80). Perfect for lunch on the go or a quick dinner treat.
Why Zan Fish chicken fillets are a must-try
There’s nothing like that first bite of crispy, juicy chicken paired with golden, perfectly cooked chips. Our fillets are versatile - you can enjoy them on their own, in a wrap, or as part of a meal deal. Either way, it’s fried chicken done right.
Don’t wait to indulge - your new favourite fillets are waiting at Zan Fish Village, Allenton, and Spondon. Grab 1, 2, 3… or all 5 and treat yourself today!
FAQs
Q: Where can I get the new Zan Fish chicken fillets?
A: Our fillets are available at Zan Fish Village, Allenton, and Spondon locations.
Q: How much do the fillets cost?
A: Single fillets start at £2.25, 3 fillets for £4.55, and 5 fillets for £7.45.
Q: Can I make a meal out of the fillets?
A: Definitely! Try our meal deal – 3 fillets with chips and a side for £8.95 or a chicken fillet wrap for £6.45 (+ £1.80 for chips).
Q: Are the fillets spicy?
A: Our fillets are golden, crispy, and full of flavour, but not spicy, making them perfect for everyone!
Q: Can I share them with friends or family?
A: Absolutely! Our fillets are perfect for sharing or grabbing as a personal treat.
Q: Are your fillets freshly cooked?
A: Yes! Every fillet is cooked fresh to order so you get that perfect crispy outside and juicy inside every time.
