McDonald’s is ready to shake up its menu with a brand-new addition: the Chicken Big Mac! If you’re a fast-food fan, you’re probably familiar with the iconic Big Mac jingle:
“Two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions on a sesame seed bun.” But now, McDonald’s is adding a twist—swap those beef patties for crispy chicken, and you’ve got the Chicken Big Mac.
This new sandwich is familiar to McDonald’s, as it’s been available in other countries for some time. However, it’s only made short, selective appearances at a few U.S. locations. But now, the Chicken Big Mac is going nationwide, offering customers across America the chance to try this limited-time menu item.
A Taste Test to Remember
In August, McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski conducted a taste test to compare the Big Mac and the Chicken Big Mac side by side. His verdict? He loved both.
He even highlighted a unique aspect of the Chicken Big Mac: the added “crunch” from the crispy chicken patties you don’t get with the traditional beef version. According to Kempczinski, the texture of the breaded chicken offers a whole new mouthfeel and experience.
While we have yet to try it, the combination of crispy chicken, Big Mac sauce, and all the classic toppings sounds pretty irresistible.
From the U.K. to the U.S.
The Chicken Big Mac debuted in the U.K. in February 2022, where it quickly became a fan favorite, selling out in less than two weeks. After seeing its success overseas, McDonald’s brought the sandwich stateside, testing it in Miami at the end of 2022.
The limited test run was a hit, and now, two years later, the Chicken Big Mac is finally going nationwide.
Starting on October 10, 2024, you’ll be able to find the Chicken Big Mac at participating McDonald’s locations across the U.S. But as with most extraordinary things, it’s only available for a limited time—so if you want to try it, don’t wait too long!
What’s in the Chicken Big Mac?
The Chicken Big Mac is almost identical to its beef counterpart. It features two tempura-battered chicken patties instead of the usual hamburger patties, paired with McDonald’s signature special sauce, shredded lettuce, cheese, and pickles on a sesame seed bun. There is one slight difference, though—this version does not have onions.
It’s worth noting that the chicken patties used in the Chicken Big Mac differ from those in a McChicken or a McCrispy sandwich. Instead, these patties are tempura-battered, similar to the chicken nuggets McDonald’s is known for. So, expect a different texture and flavor compared to McDonald’s other chicken sandwiches.
A Sandwich Worth Trying
The Chicken Big Mac combines the classic Big Mac elements you know and love with a crispy, breaded chicken twist. Whether you’re a loyal Big Mac fan or love a good chicken sandwich, this new menu item seems worthwhile.
As fans gear up to get their hands on the Chicken Big Mac, one question remains: is the Chicken Big Mac a Big Mac? In 2023, an E.U. court ruled that the Chicken Big Mac doesn’t qualify as a Big Mac. But when it comes to taste, that’s up to you to decide.
Crunch Factor
One key feature that sets the Chicken Big Mac apart from its beef counterpart is the crunch of the tempura-battered chicken. While the traditional Big Mac is known for its layers of soft textures, the Chicken Big Mac offers a bit more bite, thanks to the crispy coating on the chicken patties.
As McDonald’s CEO pointed out after his taste test, this added crunch gives the sandwich a different eating experience. It’s not just about swapping beef for chicken—it’s about introducing a new texture that makes the sandwich stand out in its own right.
Will It Stick Around?
The Chicken Big Mac is being introduced for a limited time, but it may be here to stay. McDonald’s has a history of testing new products, and the future of this sandwich likely depends on how well it’s received by customers nationwide.
Given the success of the Chicken Big Mac in the U.K. and its positive reception during U.S. testing in Miami, this could become a more permanent menu option. However, that all hinges on customer feedback and sales over the next few months.
The Future of McDonald’s Menu
The launch of the Chicken Big Mac comes as part of McDonald’s ongoing efforts to keep its menu fresh and exciting. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, McDonald’s is looking to innovate and offer new options to keep customers coming back.
Whether by introducing new twists on classic menu items like the Chicken Big Mac or entirely new offerings, McDonald’s shows it’s always ready to shake things up.
Conclusion:
As the Chicken Big Mac makes its way to McDonald’s locations across the U.S., it’s sure to generate plenty of buzz. Its crispy tempura-battered chicken patties, signature Big Mac sauce, and familiar toppings make it a unique take on the beloved Big Mac. Whether you’re a chicken sandwich enthusiast or a Big Mac loyalist, this limited-time offering seems worthwhile.
So, mark your calendars for October 10, and get ready to sink your teeth into this crunchy new creation. Whether it becomes a long-term favorite or a fleeting fast-food memory, the Chicken Big Mac will leave its mark on McDonald’s fans nationwide.
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