KFC's new burgers make an early appearance
Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) is launching its new standard "Original Chicken Burgers" at stores nationwide today, October 14.
The classic "Chicken Fillet Burger" (formerly "Chicken Fillet Sandwich"), with 43 years of history, has been significantly revamped. The change moves from chicken breast meat to a single piece of chicken thigh, and the product name will also be changed to "Original Chicken Burger."
McDonald's new chicken burgers also arrive from October 21
Coincidentally, McDonald's will also sequentially discontinue its long-selling "Chicken Filet-O" and other items, launching three new chicken burgers made with a single piece of chicken thigh as standard menu items from October 21.
KFC's New Burgers: All 6 Varieties, Starting from 490 yen!
As a chicken specialist, KFC has re-evaluated its burger recipes and preparation methods from scratch, which it has maintained for 43 years.
Adopting new "chicken thigh" boneless chicken
The biggest change this time is the switch from chicken breast to a single piece of chicken thigh for the main chicken. KFC states that they have also re-engineered the breading method, cooking process, and sauces to best suit the burger, aiming for ultimate juiciness.
The new standard "Original Chicken Burgers" line-up consists of six varieties in total: four basic items, plus two premium burgers combining thick-cut bacon and a round omelet.
▲Original Chicken Burger 490 yen
A simple burger featuring the newly developed single piece of chicken thigh sandwiched in a bun. It promises to deliver the chicken's juiciness and the crispy texture of its coating.
▲Original Chicken Burger (Red Hot Sauce) 540 yen
This burger features a newly developed mayonnaise-based red hot sauce. It is characterized by a mild spiciness reminiscent of "Red Hot Chicken."
▲Original Chicken Burger (Cheese) 540 yen
A burger combined with a slice of cheddar cheese. The richness of the cheese is said to enhance the chicken's spice and savory aroma.
▲Original Chicken Burger (Teriyaki) 540 yen
Uses a sweet, soy-sauce-based teriyaki sauce. It is characterized by a flavor with suppressed spiciness.
Furthermore, two "Premium Burgers" designed for a more substantial meal will also appear.
▲Premium Burger 750 yen
This burger layers a single piece of chicken thigh with thick-cut bacon and a round omelet, combined with a special garlic pepper mayo sauce.
▲Premium Cheese Burger 790 yen
A richer version of the "Premium Burger" with added cheddar cheese.
・Related Article: KFC's Burger Overhaul! From Chicken Breast to Single Thigh Piece. Goodbye “Chicken Fillet Burger”
McDonald's to Launch 3 New Burgers from October 21!
Meanwhile, McDonald's will also introduce three new chicken burgers, including the "Zaku Zaku Juicy Mac," as standard menu items from October 21.
McDonald's newly develops "Zaku Zaku Juicy Thigh Chicken" using chicken thigh meat
The development of these new products took five years and involved testing over 100 prototypes. Replacing the previous "Chicken Filet-O" and similar items, McDonald's will now use "Zaku Zaku Juicy Thigh Chicken," made from a single piece of chicken thigh.
▲Zaku Zaku Juicy Mac 460 yen~
This burger combines a rich tartar sauce with the flavor of coarsely ground mustard, a hint of black pepper, and the enjoyable texture of onions.
▲Spicy Zaku Zaku Juicy Mac 470 yen~
This burger features a savory and spicy sauce flavored with chili pepper and garlic.
▲Teriyaki Chicken Juicy Mac 470 yen~
A burger combining a sweet and rich teriyaki sauce, flavored with ginger and garlic, with a refreshing sweet lemon sauce. It is McDonald's only "fried x teriyaki" burger.
Each product will also be available as a regular "Double Burger" (600 yen~) with a doubled patty, exclusively during evening hours.
・Related Article: McDonald's "Chicken Filet-O" to End! 3 New Burgers Developed Over 5 Years Become Standard
Both KFC and McDonald's Revamp Chicken Burgers with "Thigh Meat"!
While it might be a bit nostalgic for those who have grown fond of the long-loved products, chicken burgers seem to be making a significant shift towards juicy thigh meat.
Even with the same chicken thigh meat, what differences will there be between chicken specialist KFC and McDonald's? It makes you want to try both and compare them! First up is KFC's launch!
*All prices include tax.
