Cooper’s Cookin & Catering Brings Home 1st Prize at the Gordonsville Chicken Festival!

If you were anywhere near Gordonsville on October 4th, you could smell it: that golden, crispy, can’t-walk-past-without-grinning aroma of perfectly fried chicken. And when the judges tallied their scores at the Gordonsville Chicken Festival, one name rose to the top—Cooper’s Cookin & Catering. We’re thrilled (and still doing a happy dance) to share that we took 1st Prize!

A Win That Tastes Like Home

Gordonsville has long been celebrated as a fried chicken capital, and the festival is where traditions meet creativity. For Cooper’s Cookin & Catering, this win is more than a ribbon—it’s a recognition of the craft we practice daily: sourcing quality ingredients, respecting classic techniques, and serving food that feels like home from the very first bite.

Our award-winning plate didn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of:

• Thoughtful sourcing of fresh, local ingredients whenever possible.

• A secret seasoning profile—bold enough to sing, balanced enough to let the chicken shine.

• A double-crisp technique, locking in juiciness while delivering that signature crunch.

• No shortcuts, ever. From brine to breading to the exact oil temperature, every detail matters.

Festival Day Highlights

From the moment we set up, we knew it would be special. Lines formed early, friendly rivalries brought just the right energy, and the community spirit was everywhere—kids dancing to live music, neighbors catching up over plates piled high, and visitors making new friends in the shade. By the time our last batches came out of the fryer, we were humbled by the smiles and the “just one more” requests. When our name was called for 1st Prize, it felt like a celebration of everyone who has ever supported Cooper’s—family, friends, customers, and the Gordonsville community that makes events like this unforgettable.

What Sets Our Chicken Apart

There’s fried chicken, and then there’s Cooper’s fried chicken:

• Flavor that builds: an herb-and-pepper warmth that doesn’t overpower.

• Texture perfection: shatteringly crisp on the outside, tender and juicy inside.

• Consistency: whether it’s a festival tent or a wedding reception, every plate tastes like a win.

And while chicken might be our claim to fame, our full catering menu goes far beyond the bird—think buttery mac ‘n’ cheese, garden-fresh sides, slow-simmered greens, and desserts that send your guests home smiling.

Thank You, Gordonsville

A heartfelt thank-you to the festival organizers, fellow vendors, and the judges who worked tirelessly to make the day a success. Most of all, thank you to everyone who came out, cheered us on, and trusted us with your appetites. Your support fuels us—literally and figuratively!

Planning an Event? Let’s Make It Delicious.

From intimate gatherings to large celebrations, Cooper’s Cookin & Catering brings championship-level flavor to your table. Whether you want an elevated Southern spread, a family-style buffet, or a custom menu built around your theme, we’ll handle the details so you can enjoy your day.

Perfect for:

• Weddings & rehearsal dinners

• Corporate lunches & employee appreciation days

• Family reunions & milestone birthdays

• Festivals, fundraisers, and community events

How to Book

Ready to serve your guests the #1 fried chicken from the Gordonsville Chicken Festival? Contact us today!!