McDonald's is answering the call of chicken lovers everywhere by bringing back its long-missing chicken tenders.
Starting May 5, fans can get their hands on the new McCrispy Strips, marking the first permanent menu addition in four years.
The crispy tenders, made with all-white meat and coated in golden-brown breading, are returning after a five-year break. They disappeared in 2020 during the pandemic as McDonald's trimmed its menu to speed up service.
Now, with chicken items booming across fast food, McDonald's is jumping back into the battle.
"The demand for chicken strips has been remarkable to see across the industry, so we knew we had to deliver something so craveable that it was worth the wait," said Alyssa Buetikofer, McDonald's chief marketing and customer experience officer.
"We took our time, listened to our fans and created a product we knew they would crave."
According to DailyMail, the McCrispy Strips will be sold in three or four pieces, with prices ranging from $4.99 to $5.99. Each order includes one or two sauce cups.
Alongside classic options like barbecue, spicy buffalo, and ranch, McDonald's is introducing a brand-new Creamy Chili dip.
NEW McDonald’s McCrispy Strips.
— Markie Devo (@markie_devo) April 24, 2025
🥫McD’s is also dropping a NEW Creamy Chili Dip-savory, sweet and tangy sauce.
📍At some locations now, find the new McCrispy Strips nationwide at participating McDonald’s locations by May 5th.
(News/Image::McDonald’s)
Will you try this👇🏻 pic.twitter.com/kJkoyCQS2Q
McDonald's Crispy Tenders Return Amid Sales Slump
McDonald's faces stiff competition from chicken-focused chains like Raising Cane's, Wingstop, and newer players like Taco Bell, which have all seen big sales thanks to crispy tenders and nuggets, CNN said.
McDonald's, once the go-to for fast food, has seen a drop in chicken sales and has had to rethink its menu to stay competitive.
The new tenders are part of McDonald's McValue platform, which is aimed at customers looking for more affordable options.
Rising menu prices have caused frustration among diners, leading the chain to focus on bringing back popular, lower-cost favorites.
Chicken fans are also watching closely for the return of the Snack Wrap, another item that used the same tenders. Though McDonald's hasn't confirmed a date, insiders suggest it could appear as soon as next month.
The company is hoping these menu moves will help turn things around. McDonald's has had a rocky year with declining sales and public backlash over prices. Its next earnings report is due May 1, and executives are betting that the return of crispy chicken will help drive excitement and sales.
"Protein is hot. Everybody's into protein," said CEO Chris Kempczinski in a recent Instagram video. "It works perfectly with items like chicken and fish fillets."
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