Fast-food chains are constantly striving to keep their menus fresh and exciting. Whether it’s to cater to changing consumer tastes, dietary needs, or simply to add a new twist to an old favourite, the fast-food industry is always buzzing with innovation. This constant evolution is what makes the fast-food scene so fascinating and why, as consumers, we should always stay up-to-date with the latest trends.
Based on real-world trends, data analysis, expert interviews, and customer surveys, we’ve compiled a list of 10 fast-food chains that are currently testing new menu items. Expect a tantalising mix of familiar names and innovative newcomers, all offering something exciting for your taste buds.
1. McDonald’s
McDonald’s, a global fast-food titan, is known for experimenting with its menu to meet the diverse tastes of its customers worldwide. The company is currently testing a new Crispy Chicken Sandwich in select markets. The sandwich, which is meant to rival similar offerings from Chick-fil-A and Popeyes, is made with a crispy chicken fillet served on a toasted, buttered potato roll with pickles.
Given the recent chicken sandwich wars that have taken the fast-food industry by storm, McDonald’s move to introduce its own version is a strategic one. The chicken sandwich trend has been a profitable venture for many chains. For more insight into this trend, check out this Business Insider report.
2. Taco Bell
Taco Bell is renowned for its unique and innovative menu items. The Mexican-inspired fast-food chain is currently testing a new Crispy Chicken Sandwich Taco in select locations. This unique offering blurs the lines between a taco and a sandwich, featuring crispy chicken with a spicy breading, served with chipotle sauce in a soft, warm taco-shaped bread.
This new menu item reflects the ongoing trend of fast-food chains innovating within the booming chicken sandwich category. Taco Bell’s fresh approach to the trend could attract consumers looking for a different take on the popular fare. Learn more about Taco Bell’s innovation in this CNBC article.
3. Burger King
Burger King is always looking for ways to improve its menu and keep up with shifting consumer tastes. The fast-food giant is currently testing a new Sourdough King in select markets. The burger features a quarter-pound of flame-grilled beef, melted American cheese, thick-cut bacon, freshly sliced onions, and creamy signature sauce, all served on a toasted sourdough bun.
The inclusion of sourdough, a type of bread that has seen a resurgence in popularity over the past year, shows Burger King’s effort to tap into current food trends and offer more premium options. Check out this QSR Magazine article for more details.
4. Wendy’s
Wendy’s, known for its commitment to fresh, never-frozen beef, is currently testing a new Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger in select locations. The burger features a fresh beef patty, applewood smoked bacon, American cheese, crispy onions, and a new bourbon bacon sauce.
The new burger aligns with current industry trends of incorporating premium ingredients and bold flavors into traditional fast food offerings. For more information on Wendy’s Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger, refer to this Restaurant Business Online article.
5. KFC
KFC is renowned for its signature fried chicken and innovative menu items. The fast-food chain is currently testing a new Chicken Sandwich in select markets. This sandwich features a quarter-pound, all-white meat, double-breaded, Extra Crispy chicken filet, served with thicker pickles and the option of spicy or classic mayonnaise, all sandwiched between a new, toasted, buttered brioche bun.
Like McDonald’s and Taco Bell, KFC is also tapping into the popular chicken sandwich trend. With its new offering, KFC aims to provide a more premium, satisfying chicken sandwich experience. Read more about KFC’s chicken sandwich in this Business Insider article.
6. Domino’s
Domino’s is well-known for its wide selection of pizzas and constant menu innovation. The pizza chain is currently testing a new Cheeseburger Pizza in select markets. This pizza features ketchup-mustard sauce, American cheese, beef, onions, diced tomatoes, shredded provolone, and cheddar cheese.
The introduction of the Cheeseburger Pizza is a creative approach to blending two popular fast food items. It reflects the industry’s ongoing trend of offering out-of-the-box menu items to attract and retain customers. Find out more about Domino’s Cheeseburger Pizza in this Delish article.
7. Dunkin’
Dunkin’ is a global leader in the coffee and bakery fast-food sector. The chain is currently testing a new Avocado Toast offering in select markets. This health-conscious option features a thick slice of toasted sourdough bread topped with avocado spread and sprinkled with everything bagel seasoning.
With the rising trend of healthier fast food options and the popularity of avocado toast, Dunkin’s new item is a strategic move to attract health-conscious consumers. Learn more about Dunkin’s Avocado Toast in this QSR Magazine article.
8. Subway
Subway is well-known for its made-to-order sandwiches and salads. The sandwich chain is currently testing a new Protein Bowl offering in select markets. This customizable bowl option allows customers to choose their favourite sandwich fillings and have them served in a bowl instead of in a sub.
The introduction of Protein Bowls aligns with the rising trend of customizable, healthier fast food options. For more information on Subway’s Protein Bowls, refer to this QSR Magazine article.
9. Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A, renowned for its chicken sandwiches, is currently testing a new Honey Pepper Pimento Chicken Sandwich in select markets. This sandwich features an original Chick-fil-A filet drizzled with honey, topped with Southern-style pimento cheese, and served on a warm, toasted bun with mild pickled jalapeños.
This new menu item exemplifies the trend of adding unique, bold flavors to traditional offerings. For more insight into Chick-fil-A’s new offering, check out this Delish article.
10. Panera Bread
Panera Bread, known for its fresh, clean ingredients and delicious bakery items, is currently testing a new Flatbread Pizza in select markets. The pizza features a crispy flatbread crust and is available in three flavors: Margherita, Chipotle Chicken & Bacon, and Cheese.
The introduction of Flatbread Pizza is a strategic move to tap into the popular pizza market and diversify its menu offerings. Learn more about Panera’s Flatbread Pizza in this USA Today article.
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