Grammy-nominated rapper and singer Fat Joe was in Miami on Wednesday, April 9, for the takeoff of the MSC World America cruise ship from PortMiami. That morning, he did a rapid-fire Instagram interview for the Today Show's Third Hour segment, where they asked him "this or that" style questions. In this case, the questions were about two topics he loves: New York versus Miami.
In the segment, he votes for Miami Beach over Coney Island (duh), but then he gets stumped on whether to vote for a Publix "Pub Sub" (a Publix sandwich sub, for those unfamiliar) or a New York slice of pizza. Understandably, he goes for the New York slice... but then something wonderful happens. He says, "Imma take the New York pizza slice, but let me tell you something. Publix subs..." *dramatic pause* "How about let's skip [that question] and go to the Publix fried chicken. Now, you got a problem on your hands." A delicious problem, indeed.
Our "Lean Back" king loves Publix fried chicken—in both its plain glory and as a juicy Pub Sub—and we couldn't be happier.
He then goes on to reveal his love of Cuban bread over a New York bagel, and it's safe to say the New Times editorial team is proud of his choices. "Pan Cubano all the time," he proudly proclaims. Dale.
Grammy-winning singer Fat Joe is a major fan of this Publix staple.
Screenshot via Instagram/@todayshow
What Makes Publix Fried Chicken So Popular — And Loved by Fat Joe?!
Whether Fat Joe is talking about the Publix Deli fried chicken, popcorn chicken, fried chicken wings, or chicken tenders isn't clear, but we do know they've got a fan following.According to Food Republic, "Publix uses a double-breading method to create a noticeably crispy and flavorful crust. The breading is a mixture of wheat flour, salt, spices, onion powder, and modified wheat starch, forming the foundation of the chicken's signature flavor. Leavening agents contribute to the breading's airy texture, while yeast extract adds depth of flavor. Paprika, turmeric, and annatto give the chicken its golden color, and black pepper provides a slight kick in every bite. Publix fries its chicken in a blend of corn and cottonseed oil, adding a tasty, savory note."
They also note that the fried chicken is brined or marinated before breading, allowing the flavor to penetrate the meat.
No wonder why it's so clucking good. We get you, Fat Joe. Let's "make it rain" Publix popcorn chicken.
