Are you a McDonald’s lover who’s been waiting for something new to sink your teeth into? Well, the wait is almost over! The highly anticipated Chicken Big Mac is about to make its grand entrance onto McDonald’s menus across the United States, and I’ve got all the juicy details you need to know.
When Is the Chicken Big Mac Coming Out?
Mark your calendars, folks! The Chicken Big Mac officially launches on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at participating McDonald’s restaurants nationwide. This isn’t just a rumor – McDonald’s has confirmed this release date themselves, and fans are already buzzing with excitement.
After successful runs in international markets like the UK and Australia, plus a limited test in Miami back in 2022, the Chicken Big Mac is finally making its way to the broader US market. Some lucky customers in Indianapolis and El Paso, Texas have already gotten a taste, as these markets received the sandwich early.
What Exactly Is the Chicken Big Mac?
I know what you’re thinking – is it really just a Big Mac with chicken instead of beef? Well, kinda! But the details matter, so here’s what you can expect:
- Two tempura-battered chicken patties (replacing the beef patties)
- Iconic Big Mac sauce
- American cheese
- Shredded lettuce
- Pickle slices
- Three-piece sesame seed bun
One notable difference from the original Big Mac – there are no onions on the Chicken Big Mac! Otherwise, it delivers that classic Big Mac experience with a crispy chicken twist.
Nutrition Information: How Many Calories?
If you’re watching what you eat but still wanna try this new sandwich, here’s the nutritional breakdown:
- Calories: 530 (26.5% of daily value)
- Total fat: 20g (26%)
- Total carbohydrates: 61g (24%)
- Protein: 25g (49%)
Compared to the original beef Big Mac, the Chicken Big Mac actually has slightly less fat while still packing a protein punch. Not exactly a health food, but hey, it’s a treat!
The Secret McDonnell’s Pop-Up Test
McDonald’s pulled a sneaky one on us with this launch! Before the official nationwide release they secretly operated a fake pop-up restaurant called “McDonnell’s” in Los Angeles for just one day. This spot served what was essentially the Chicken Big Mac, but under a different name.
This stealth test allowed McDonald’s to gauge reactions and build buzz before the official announcement. When they revealed it was actually McDonald’s behind this “dupe” all along, social media went wild! Pretty clever marketing strategy, if you ask me.
Why a Chicken Version of the Big Mac Now?
There are a few good reasons why McDonald’s is launching the Chicken Big Mac right now:
- Chicken costs less than beef currently, making it potentially more profitable
- Consumer demand for chicken options has been growing steadily
- The chicken sandwich wars are still raging among fast food chains
- International versions of the Chicken Big Mac have performed extremely well
While McDonald’s insists this isn’t a direct response to competitors like Popeyes and Chick-fil-A, it’s hard not to see this as their way of staying competitive in the chicken sandwich market
Limited Time Only: Get It While You Can!
I gotta emphasize this point – the Chicken Big Mac is being advertised as a limited time offering available “while supplies last.” So if you want to try it, don’t wait too long!
That said, there’s always the chance it could become a permanent menu item if it sells well. McDonald’s has done this before with limited offerings that performed beyond expectations. So if you love it, make some noise on social media and let McDonald’s know!
Marketing Push: Kai Cenat Collaboration
To generate extra hype for the launch, McDonald’s has partnered with popular internet personality and self-proclaimed “Big Mac superfan” Kai Cenat. He’ll be livestreaming his first taste of the Chicken Big Mac and debating the big question: “Is the Chicken Big Mac a Big Mac?”
Cenat will welcome his famous friends to try the sandwich on his stream and share their unfiltered reactions. You can follow along on McDonald’s social channels to see when Kai goes live with his taste test. With his massive following, his endorsement could really boost the sandwich’s popularity.
Where to Find the Chicken Big Mac
The Chicken Big Mac will be available at participating McDonald’s locations nationwide starting October 10th. However, not every single location may have it on day one, as the rollout might take some time to reach all restaurants.
If you’re desperate to try it ASAP, I recommend checking the McDonald’s app to see if your local restaurant has it available. You can also call ahead if you’re planning a special trip just for this sandwich.
Price Point: What Will It Cost?
The Chicken Big Mac will cost approximately $5.50, though prices will vary depending on your location. For comparison, some markets that got early access were selling it for:
- Indianapolis: $4.59
- El Paso, Texas: $5.99
So expect some regional variation in pricing based on local market conditions.
How Does It Compare to Other Chicken Sandwiches?
The Chicken Big Mac enters a pretty crowded field of fast food chicken sandwiches. Here’s how it stands out:
- Unlike most competitors’ single-patty offerings, it features TWO chicken patties
- It’s the only chicken sandwich with the iconic Big Mac middle bun and sauce
- The tempura batter provides a different texture than typical breaded chicken sandwiches
- It’s aimed at Big Mac fans looking for variety, not necessarily competing directly with Popeyes or Chick-fil-A’s offerings
Don’t Forget: Boo Buckets Are Coming Too!
While you’re marking your calendar for the Chicken Big Mac, it’s worth noting that McDonald’s is also bringing back their popular Monster Boo Buckets on October 15th! These Halloween-themed Happy Meal containers are perfect for trick-or-treating and come with customizable stickers.
This year features a new blue bucket alongside the returning colors, with friendlier monster faces than last year’s designs. So if you’ve got kiddos (or you’re a collector yourself), that’s another McDonald’s event to look forward to this month!
My Thoughts: Will It Be Worth The Hype?
Honestly, I think the Chicken Big Mac has a good shot at being a hit. McDonald’s isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel here – they’re taking a beloved classic and giving it a twist that makes sense. The Big Mac is iconic, and chicken sandwiches are hugely popular right now, so combining them seems like a no-brainer.
The tempura batter should give the chicken patties a nice crunch that pairs well with the soft bun and creamy sauce. My only concern is whether two chicken patties might make the sandwich too dry compared to the beef version, but that’s what the sauce is for, right?
I’m definitely planning to try one on release day, and I’d recommend any fast food fan do the same. Even if you’re not usually a McDonald’s person, this unique offering might be worth the trip.
Final Countdown: October 10th Is Almost Here!
With just days until the nationwide launch, the anticipation for the Chicken Big Mac is reaching fever pitch. McDonald’s clearly has high hopes for this sandwich, and based on its international success, it could be one of their biggest launches of the year.
Remember these key points:
- Launch date: Thursday, October 10, 2024
- Limited time only while supplies last
- Features two tempura chicken patties with classic Big Mac toppings
- No onions unlike the original Big Mac
- Approximately $5.50 depending on location
Whether you’re a devoted Big Mac fan curious about this chicken variation or just someone who enjoys trying new fast food items, the Chicken Big Mac promises to be an interesting addition to McDonald’s lineup. Don’t miss your chance to try it – and maybe grab a Boo Bucket while you’re at it!
Kai Cenat Introduces McDonalds Chicken Big Mac
FAQ
Is the Chicken Big Mac coming to the US?
Now, it’s likely hoping for similar success in the United States. Beginning October 10, the highly anticipated sandwich will be sold for a limited time at McDonald’s US locations. The Chicken Big Mac is similar to its beefy sibling; however, it replaces the two burgers with two tempura chicken patties.
Is the Chicken Big Mac coming back in 2025?
Yes, the Chicken Big Mac is coming back to U.S. McDonald’s restaurants as a limited-time offering in 2025, following its initial introduction to U.S. menus in late 2024. The sandwich, which features two breaded chicken patties instead of beef, was also confirmed in a February 2025 earnings call and will be a part of McDonald’s broader strategy to expand its chicken offerings.
When can I get Chicken Big Mac?
McDonald’s limited-time Chicken Big Mac launches in the US on October 10, 2024. Here’s how it matches up to the go-tos in the chicken sandwich game.
Is the Chicken Big Mac permanent now?
McDonald’s Chicken Big Mac will be available starting October 10, 2024. Fans can take advantage of this new menu item at most locations, but note that it is currently a short-term deal, with Chicken Big Macs only available while supplies last.