Chicken Surpasses Burgers, Mexican and Pizza

Chick-fil-A has led the charge in the soaring popularity of chicken.

September 02, 2016

NEW YORK CITY – Chicken has jumped ahead of the pack when it comes to quick-service restaurants, QSR Magazine reports. Consumers are more interested in fast-food chicken chains than Mexican or burgers, according to a new YouGov survey. Bumping up chicken is the success of Chick-fil-A.

“While [the chicken sandwich] was our own little secret for years, the cat is definitely out of the bag now,” said David Farmer, vice president of menu strategy and development for the number-one U.S. chicken chain. “We are certainly seeing an uptick in the quick-service chicken trend, and we still think there is room for everybody.”

Interest in chicken has spilled over to other chicken restaurants, such as Boston Market, Church’s KFC and Popeye’s, which have seen an increase in interest. During the past year and a half at fast-food restaurants, chicken is spiking up away from pizza, Mexican and burger chains, according to Ted Marzilli, CEO of YouGov BrandIndex. More than 19% of consumers are thinking about choosing chicken for their next quick-service stop, compared to just over 17% thinking about burgers. Those two percentage points “can be pretty meaningful in a large and mature sector,” he said.

“People are looking for healthier proteins when they are on the go, and chicken fits that bill,” Farmer said. “Chicken is also very versatile, so it can be used as an ingredient in any type of cuisine.”

Chick-fil-A continues expanding, on track to open 90 new locations this year, plus an additional 90 in 2017. Farmer points to chicken’s healthier side as driving the trend. “People want the choice of healthier options,” he said. “Chicken is seen as better for you, and consumers are coming down on the side of balance.”

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