The Chicken Big Mac has finally landed in the United States, and people have opinions—lots of them. McDonald’s latest addition to the Big Mac lineup ditches the classic beef patties for tempura-battered chicken.
Other than the protein swap, the familiar formula is all there: the iconic sauce, middle bun, plenty of lettuce, and pickles. Yet, the reaction from American customers is as mixed as a side of McDonald’s fries.
Across social media, the verdict on the Chicken Big Mac is far from unanimous. From Twitter (or “X,” if you’re following along with its recent rebrand) to Reddit, people have taken to the internet to share their thoughts, and they aren’t shy about it.
Some folks are loving the switch, while others feel that McDonald’s might have missed the mark. One common theme? The patties are being compared to oversized Chicken McNuggets—giant, tempura-crusted nuggets slapped into a Big Mac bun.
On X, one user poked fun at the name, quipping, “You’re telling me they actually called it The Chicken Big Mac when The Big MacChicken was RIGHT THERE.” Others echoed the sentiment that the chicken patties don’t quite live up to expectations.
User Timothy Jimothy complained, “The chicken is basically a large version of their chicken nugget, which tastes really bland at that size.” The general consensus among the critics? The breading overpowers the flavor, leaving the sandwich feeling a little, well, flat. Many wonder why McDonald’s didn’t just go with their McChicken patties, which are known for their more seasoned, peppery kick.
But not everyone is ready to write off the Chicken Big Mac. There are fans who are absolutely “lovin’ it”. Alyssa Rose, daughter of Mets announcer Howie Rose, dubbed it “the greatest culinary creation of our lifetime” on social media. Food editor Taryn Pire had a different take in her review, stating that the Big Mac’s signature sauce and pickles seem to stand out more with the chicken patties, adding that it feels like a more substantial sandwich than the beef version.
One thing’s clear—McDonald’s knows how to stir up excitement with its menu changes. The Chicken Big Mac’s U.S. debut follows successful runs in Europe, and many fans have been clamoring for it stateside since its international appearance.
At around $5.50 (depending on your location), it’s a relatively affordable curiosity for fast food fans to try.
This launch is just one of several big moves from the fast-food giant this year. Earlier in 2024, the Double Big Mac returned for a brief but glorious stint, and rumors about The Big Arch, a new, larger burger set to hit U.S. menus later this year, are already sparking conversations. And let’s not forget—McDonald’s breakfast bagels are making a comeback after a four-year hiatus, much to the delight of longtime fans.