Chicken Big Mac: A Twist on a Classic

A New Take on a 1968 Classic

A new menu item just hit McDonald’s restaurants nationwide — but it may taste familiar to fans, in more ways than one.

International Debut

According to the Chicago-based burger chain, the brand’s new Chicken Big Mac will be available at McDonald’s restaurants across the country for a limited time beginning Thursday. The launch marks the sandwich’s U.S. debut, though it’s been available internationally, in markets including the UK and Australia, according to the restaurant.

What’s in the Sandwich?

The twist on one of McDonald’s most popular menu items comes weeks after the chain teased its release on social media, with the phrase “Not not a Big Mac.”

The sandwich — a new take on the 1968 classic Big Mac — features nearly all the toppings and fixings Big Mac eaters know and love: Pickles, lettuce, cheese, Big Mac sauce, and a sesame seed bun. The only changes are no onions, and of course, the chicken.

Tempura-Battered Chicken Patties

According to officials, the tempura-battered chicken patties used were specifically designed to fit the Big Mac. They are also unlike the patties used in McDonald’s other chicken sandwiches — like the McChicken, which uses a blend of muscle meat, or the McCrispy, which is a breast filet.

“This is like if I were to put chicken nuggets on a burger,” a McDonald’s official said. “It’s like a chicken nugget burger basically,” another added.

More Updates from McDonald’s

The new sandwich is the latest update from the chain, which also recently announced the return of its beloved Boo Buckets, this time with a new look.

In a Monday announcement, the Chicago-based burger chain revealed the iconic Halloween pails would return to McDonald’s Happy Meals beginning in mid-October. It also unveiled new bucket designs for 2024, saying the nostalgic pails were getting a “refresh.”

Reaction on Social Media

However, some on social media didn’t love the updated look.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I get the Chicken Big Mac? – The sandwich will be available at McDonald’s restaurants across the country for a limited time beginning Thursday.

What’s in the sandwich? – The Chicken Big Mac features tempura-battered chicken patties, pickles, lettuce, cheese, Big Mac sauce, and a sesame seed bun.

Is the sandwich available internationally? – Yes, the sandwich has been available internationally in markets such as the UK and Australia.

Will the Boo Buckets return? – Yes, the classic Halloween pails will return to McDonald’s Happy Meals beginning in mid-October with a new look.

When will the Boo Buckets be available? – The buckets will hit McDonald’s stores beginning October 15 and will be available “while supplies last.”