In 2025, chicken strips are making a major comeback in the fastfood industry, with major chains like McDonalds and Taco Bell reintroducing and expanding their crispy chicken offerings. This resurgence is driven by consumer demand, particularly among Gen Z, who favor bold flavors and customizable options.
McDonalds Reintroduces Chicken Selects
After discontinuing its Chicken Selects in 2015, McDonalds is bringing back the popular item in 2025. The new chicken strips, made from 100 allwhite meat, are part of a broader strategy to revamp the companys chicken menu. Alongside the return of Snack Wraps and the introduction of the Chicken Big Mac, McDonalds aims to cater to evolving consumer preferences and regain market share in the competitive fastfood landscape citeturn0search0.
Taco Bells Crispy Chicken Nuggets Return
Taco Bell is also capitalizing on the crispy chicken trend by reintroducing its Crispy Chicken Nuggets on April 24, 2025. These nuggets, marinated in jalapeño buttermilk and coated with a tortillachip crumb, were a hit during their limited release in December 2024, selling out in just one week. The chain plans to make crispy chicken a permanent menu category by 2026, potentially including items like chicken strips, tacos, and burritos citeturn0news12.
The Rise of Chicken Tenders
The renewed focus on chicken strips and tenders is part of a larger trend in the fastfood industry. Chains like KFC and Raising Canes are emphasizing boneless, crispy chicken products to meet consumer demand. KFC, for instance, launched its Original Recipe Tenders in October 2024, aiming to spark a chicken tender battle among competitors citeturn0search4.
Gen Zs Influence
Gen Zs preferences are significantly shaping fastfood trends in 2025. With an estimated 360 billion in disposable income, this demographic favors bold, international flavors and customizable options. Fastfood chains are responding by introducing diverse dipping sauces and innovative menu items to cater to these tastes citeturn0search1.
Conclusion
The resurgence of chicken strips in 2025 reflects a broader shift in the fastfood industry towards crispy, flavorful, and customizable offerings. As major chains invest in revamping their chicken menus, consumers can expect a variety of new and returning favorites to satisfy their cravings.