McDonald’s is testing a new chicken menu that includes an entirely new item called McCrispy Tenders, with the limited rollout currently available in Chicago.
The test menu expands on McDonald’s existing McCrispy lineup and introduces sauced tenders alongside other chicken offerings. While McDonald’s has not announced broader availability, the Chicago test gives customers an early look at how the chain may be reworking its chicken strategy.
McCrispy Tenders appear different from existing strips
Early looks at the McCrispy Tenders suggest they are not simply a rebrand of the McCrispy Strips already on menus. Snack-focused content creator Snackolator recently shared a hands-on look at the new tenders, highlighting visible differences in texture and breading.
“These are hand-breaded, and you can tell immediately how much different they are from the McCrispy Strips,” he said. “These are so much crispier than the McCrispy strips; they do remind me a lot of Popeyes tenders.”
Footage shared from the Chicago test shows thicker breading and a more rugged exterior compared to the smoother McCrispy Strips currently sold nationwide.
The McCrispy Tenders are part of a broader chicken test underway at McDonald’s, which includes new sauces and variations designed to gauge customer interest. McDonald’s has not confirmed whether the tenders or other test items will roll out nationally or remain limited to select markets.
The McCrispy Strips launched back in May 2025, and were the main ingredient in the long-awaited and wildly successful launch of the Snack Wrap in June.
