When the holiday season comes around, one of the most important preparations that many fixate upon is dressing the dining table. Drinks, appetizers, entrees, sides, and desserts; there are a plethora of factors that one must consider as a host of this annual tradition. The most food-focused holiday, however, is also the most disputed regarding what should be served when the time arrives. 

Thanksgiving, rooted in the harvest feast that took place in 1621 between Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people after a harsh winter, has become more focused on indulging in lavish dinners rather than expressing gratitude to loved ones. Arguably, the turkey is the “head” of the night, often carved and arranged on a platter alongside toasted herb stuffing and a savory, comforting gravy.

Although this dish is the mascot of the fall season, included in songs and marathons on Thanksgiving day, many people are not used to eating this bird on a daily basis, and therefore do not consume it on the holiday. 

“I usually eat chicken on Thanksgiving day,” Coco Hong (11) said. “I don’t really see the appeal in turkey, and my family doesn’t enjoy it as much.” 

Chicken is an extremely common alternative to the typical entree, as it has a similar taste and overall structure. It is also far easier to cook in comparison to turkey, as it is smaller and can be cooked at higher temperatures to speed up the process. And despite the similar flavor profiles, many often prefer the taste and texture of chicken. 

“Turkey gets tough very quickly, so by the time you choose your cut and sit down to eat it’s already cold and firm,” Don Kumar (11) said. “Chicken has slightly more protein. In my opinion, is more enjoyable to eat no matter how you consume it.” 

After hours of brining, basting, flipping, and baking, if your turkey still turns out dry, the main dish of the meal is basically ruined, even after countless hours of effort. Chicken, on the other hand, is far more predictable and common to a wider audience. 

Yet, besides these two options, many families incorporate their own cultures and favorite dishes into the holiday. Tamales, biriyani, dumplings, and other specific foods are often served at dinner tables on Thanksgiving, based on the household, bringing families together just as a turkey or chicken would.

“My family likes to eat hotpot on Thanksgiving day,” Elizabeth Yu (11) said. “It’s perfect for the cold weather in November, and it still brings us together over a hearty meal.” 

With this perspective, simply restricting the tradition to turkey as the main dish feels a bit outdated, especially with America’s title as the “melting pot” that supposedly allows for the freedom of expression of one’s culture. Nevertheless, there are still some turkey-enthusiasts who will insist that without the bird, the holiday loses its identity. For many families, the turkey is a symbol of togetherness and familiarity, anchoring the table and encouraging conversations at the dinner table. 

So, to answer which bird wins over the Thanksgiving roast, both sides are valid perspectives. Turkey is the more traditional option and is more optimal for larger gatherings, while chicken highlights the growth of the tradition over the years for smaller family dinners. And everything in between just shows how diversity and culture should always be considered and welcomed into the holiday season, especially when they bring people together just as significantly.