Do you remember when eating chicken was a once-in-a-blue-moon luxury? Back then, chicken wasn’t just food—it was an event. In many Nigerian homes, chicken only made its grand appearance on Christmas Day, turning an already festive occasion into something spectacular. It was the “big deal” on the menu, a symbol of celebration and abundance. For many of us, that first bite of tender, flavorful chicken marked the highlight of Christmas, creating memories that would stay with us forever.
I can still picture it: the days leading up to Christmas were filled with excitement and the faint clucking of chickens in the compound. It wasn’t just about the meal—it was about the anticipation. You’d hear the “kukuruku” of the rooster early in the morning, a sound that signaled Christmas was near. It wasn’t unusual for children to bond with the Christmas chicken, giving it names and even secretly feeding it extra grains, only to mourn its absence later when it appeared on the dinner table, stewed and spiced to perfection.
A Tradition of Togetherness
The chicken tradition wasn’t just about the bird itself; it was about what it represented. Killing the chicken on Christmas morning was a family affair. While some people plucked feathers, others prepped the spices, and everyone contributed to turning that humble chicken into a feast fit for a king. In a way, it taught us the value of teamwork, even in the simplest of things.
And let’s not forget the sharing. In the true Nigerian spirit of “what is mine is ours,” plates of chicken and rice were sent to neighbors and relatives, each carefully balanced with enough meat to show respect and generosity. This act of sharing wasn’t just about food; it was about connection, community, and spreading the joy of the season.
How Times Have Changed
Today, chicken is no longer the rare luxury it once was. You can buy it any day of the week, in any style you like—grilled, fried, roasted, or stewed. Yet, there’s something about Christmas chicken that remains unmatched. Maybe it’s the nostalgia, or perhaps it’s the way food always tastes better when it’s prepared with love and shared with family.
At Demi’s Nigerian Restaurant, we honor this beloved tradition with dishes that remind you of the joy of home-cooked Christmas meals. Our Stewed Chicken is slow-cooked to perfection, capturing the essence of the festive season with every bite. For those craving something fiery, our Chicken Suya delivers a smoky, spiced experience that feels like a celebration on your taste buds. And of course, our Spicy Chicken Wings are perfect for sharing—or savoring all to yourself.
This Christmas, bring the spirit of the chicken tradition to your table. Whether you’re gathering with family or treating yourself to a festive feast, Demi’s has everything you need to make the season unforgettable.
Reserve a Table Today: Experience the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones at Demi’s Nigerian Restaurant.
Order for Delivery: Bring the taste of Christmas straight to your doorstep. Our spicy chicken dishes are just a click away on Uber Eats and other delivery platforms.
Host Your Festive Party with Us: From cozy family dinners to larger celebrations, let us make your Christmas one to remember.
