McDonald’s has always been synonymous with the burger, but a major shift is quietly underway, and your wallet might actually thank them for it.
With beef prices continuing to climb, the fast food giant is leaning harder into chicken, and it’s not alone. Burger King and Wendy’s have been making similar moves, with industry experts pointing to tightening beef supply as the driving force.
For McDonald’s, the chain has been quietly testing a new lineup of McCrispy Strip flavors across select locations, generating serious buzz on social media in the process.
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Popular food account Snackolator has been among those tracking the tests closely, posting on Friday, April 4 that “McDonald’s is still testing new Glazed or Seasoned McCrispy Strips and these NEED to go nationwide! They’ve got six options that really unlock the potential of the McCrispy Strips.”
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While a plain version of the strips debuted in 2015, with a brief return in 2025, the new flavors are a welcome addition to the menu. The potential flavors being tested include Sweet Chili, Teriyaki, Kickin’ BBQ, Spicy Chili Garlic, Garlic Parm, and Sweet Asian—a mix of sauces and dry rubs that signals McDonald’s is thinking well beyond the classic dipping sauce approach. While nothing has been confirmed for a nationwide rollout, the enthusiasm from both fans and food media suggests it’s only a matter of time.
“The bbq ones were so good they need to bring those back,” one fan begged.
“The spicy chili garlic ones look amazing!” another wrote.
A third commented, “I would definitely try the garlic parm.”
The chicken push isn’t the only thing shaking up McDonald’s menu right now. The chain has also teamed up with Netflix for a limited-edition collaboration inspired by the streamer’s KPop Demon Hunters series, dropping two adult combo meals—The Saja Boys Breakfast Meal and The HUNTR/X Meal—each with collectibles and South Korean-inspired flavors.
A new Derpy McFlurry rounds out the collab. “Everything we do at McDonald’s is for the fans, and no one can relate to that more than Netflix and KPop Demon Hunters,” said Alyssa Buetikofer, McDonald’s chief marketing and customer experience officer. The limited-time menu items are available now while supplies last.