McDonald’s has announced the eagerly awaited return of chicken strips, a menu item that has been absent for five years. On April 24, 2025, the fast-food giant revealed that McCrispy Strips will be available at participating locations nationwide starting May 5, 2025. These all-white meat chicken tenders, coated in crispy golden-brown breading, come with a new dipping sauce called Creamy Chili Dip, which is described as savory, sweet, and tangy.
According to Alyssa Buetikofer, McDonald’s chief marketing and customer experience officer, the demand for chicken strips has been “remarkable to see across the industry.” She emphasized that the company took its time to develop a product that fans would truly crave. “We knew we had to deliver something so craveable that it was worth the wait. And the best part is we’re just getting started,” Buetikofer stated in a press release.
The return of McCrispy Strips marks the first time since 2021 that McDonald’s has introduced a permanent menu item in the U.S. The last new item was the crispy chicken sandwich, which debuted following the surge in popularity of similar offerings from competitors like Popeyes.
Chicken strips were removed from the McDonald’s menu in 2020 as part of a broader strategy to simplify operations during the pandemic. However, their absence has sparked numerous petitions from fans eager for their return. The McCrispy Strips will be available in servings of three or four pieces, and customers can choose from a variety of sauces, including barbecue, spicy buffalo, and ranch dressing, in addition to the new Creamy Chili Dip.
The introduction of McCrispy Strips is seen as a strategic move to regain market share in the increasingly competitive chicken segment of the fast-food industry. Chains like Raising Cane’s and Wingstop have seen significant success with their chicken offerings, forcing McDonald’s to respond to consumer preferences.
In addition to the return of chicken strips, McDonald’s has hinted at the revival of another fan-favorite item: the Snack Wrap. Earlier this month, the company teased its return with a cryptic post on social media, stating “snack wraps 0x.14.2025.” While the exact date is yet to be confirmed, the anticipation has fans buzzing with excitement.
The original Snack Wrap, which featured crispy or grilled chicken, shredded lettuce, cheese, and sauce wrapped in a tortilla, was discontinued in 2016. Its return could be closely tied to the success of McCrispy Strips, as they use the same chicken tenders for their filling.
McDonald’s has seen its chicken revenue lag behind that of its competitors, prompting the need to innovate and expand its menu. The company has struggled financially over the past year, with customers voicing concerns over rising prices. In response, McDonald’s has been working on a new value menu to attract budget-conscious consumers.
As the fast-food giant prepares to launch McCrispy Strips, it is also set to report its earnings on May 1, a crucial moment that could reveal the impact of these new menu items on its financial performance.
Food blogger Burger Beast, who sampled the McCrispy Strips ahead of their official release, praised them as “crispy and flavorful.” He reported prices of $4.99 for a three-piece serving with two sauces and $5.99 for a four-piece serving with two sauces, although McDonald’s has indicated that prices may vary by location.
With the return of McCrispy Strips and the potential revival of the Snack Wrap, McDonald’s is clearly making a concerted effort to cater to customer cravings and stay competitive in the fast-food landscape. The chain’s commitment to chicken this year is evident, and as Buetikofer noted, they are just getting started.
As consumers eagerly await the arrival of McCrispy Strips on May 5, it remains to be seen how these new offerings will affect McDonald’s standing in the fast-food market. Will the return of chicken strips and the anticipated Snack Wrap be enough to entice customers back to the Golden Arches? Only time will tell.
