For anyone who’s ever felt McDonald’s menu could use just a little more crunch, your wish has officially been granted. After a four-year wait, McDonald’s is bringing a brand-new, bold chicken item to the forefront—and this time, it’s here to stay. Say hello to the McCrispy Strips, the fast-food chain’s newest permanent menu addition, officially rolling out nationwide by May 5.
Chicken strips may not be a new concept in fast food, but McDonald’s is promising something special with this release. These aren’t your childhood tenders—they’re grown-up, flavor-packed, and ready to join the ranks of fan-favorite items like McNuggets and the Spicy McCrispy sandwich. With the McCrispy Strips, McDonald’s is signaling that the chicken wars are far from over—and they’re ready to make their mark.
What Are McCrispy Strips?
The new McCrispy Strips are made with 100% white meat chicken, hand-breaded in a golden, crunchy coating that’s infused with a black pepper kick. That means every bite brings together a satisfying crunch, juicy interior, and just enough heat to keep your taste buds engaged. It’s an upgrade from the standard breading you might expect, leaning into the bolder flavor profiles that modern fast food fans increasingly demand.
They’ll be available in three-piece and four-piece servings, which come with one or two sauces, respectively. And while the strips are designed to shine on their own, McDonald’s knows that what you dip them in can make or break the experience.
That’s where the Creamy Chili Dip comes in.
The Sauce Steals the Spotlight
With any new chicken item, the dipping sauce is just as important as the chicken itself—and McDonald’s seems to understand that better than ever. Alongside the McCrispy Strips, they’re launching a brand-new sauce that’s completely unique to this rollout: the Creamy Chili Dip.
Described by McDonald’s as “savory, sweet, and tangy with a hint of heat,” this sauce balances complexity with comfort. It’s not just a spicy mayo clone or an updated barbecue. It’s something entirely its own—designed to complement the peppery bite of the McCrispy Strips, but versatile enough that you’ll want to dunk fries or even a McDouble in it too.
For those who love to mix and match, McDonald’s is encouraging fans to get creative. Pair your McCrispy Strips with the Tangy BBQ, Honey Mustard, or even the Sweet ‘N Sour—creating a personalized flavor experience that keeps each bite new and exciting.
Why Now? Listening to the Fans
So, what sparked this chicken innovation? According to McDonald’s, it’s been a long time coming—and driven almost entirely by customer demand.
Alyssa Buetikofer, McDonald’s Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer, explained it clearly in a press release: “The demand for chicken strips has been remarkable to see across the industry, so we knew we had to deliver something so craveable that it was worth the wait. We took our time, listened to our fans, and created a product we knew they would crave. And the best part is—we’re just getting started.”
McDonald’s had previously experimented with tenders and limited-time chicken items over the years, but none ever earned a permanent spot. The introduction of the McCrispy line—including the Spicy Deluxe McCrispy sandwich—marked a shift in that approach. These new strips expand on that same foundation, offering the portability and dipping potential fans have been missing.
The message is clear: McDonald’s sees a long-term place for chicken beyond the nugget.
When (and Where) to Get Them
The official nationwide launch date for McCrispy Strips is May 5, but McDonald’s has hinted that select locations may start offering them sooner. If you’re the type who likes being among the first to try new items, it might be worth checking your local store’s app or menu board this week.
Once the rollout is complete, you can expect the McCrispy Strips to be available at all participating U.S. locations—permanently. No limited-time fine print, no seasonal pullback. Just a new go-to option for chicken lovers, finally added to the mainstage.
A Nod to the Chicken Strip Comeback
Fast food chicken has been enjoying a renaissance over the past few years. With the explosive popularity of Popeyes’ chicken sandwich and other chains following suit, it’s clear that fans are hungry for more than just burgers. McDonald’s has been steadily stepping up their game in this arena—and McCrispy Strips might just be their most promising move yet.
This isn’t just a copycat response to the latest food trend. It’s a sign that McDonald’s is refining what its fans want most and delivering something familiar—but elevated. The peppery breading, the juicy white meat, and that creamy, spicy dip all work together to make this more than just another nugget alternative.
Pairing Ideas and Pro Tips
Want to make the most out of your first McCrispy Strip experience? Here are a few ideas and tips to help you build the ultimate meal:
1. Double Down on Sauce Variety
While the Creamy Chili Dip is a must-try, don’t stop there. Order extra sauces and go wild with combinations. Try alternating between Chili Dip and Ranch, or stack a little BBQ on top for smoky sweetness.
2. Fresh is Best
Just like with McNuggets, you can ask your server to prepare your McCrispy Strips fresh. This often means a short wait, but it’s worth it for peak crispiness.
3. Build a Combo
Pair the strips with fries and a refreshing drink, or take it a step further by ordering alongside a McDouble or Spicy McCrispy for a little bit of everything.
4. Add Heat
If you’re someone who likes a spicy kick, add a packet of hot sauce or pair with the Spicy McCrispy sandwich. The balance of spice and creamy dip will elevate both.
Final Thoughts: A Welcome Crunch to the Menu
With the launch of McCrispy Strips, McDonald’s isn’t just adding another chicken option—they’re responding directly to years of customer feedback and making chicken a central part of their long-term vision. This isn’t nostalgia-driven or trend-chasing; it’s a smart, well-executed move that fills a clear gap in the menu.
Whether you’re a loyal McNugget fan or someone who’s been holding out for a dippable, bold-flavored chicken strip, this new menu item is definitely worth the hype. The McCrispy Strips deliver on texture, taste, and versatility—and they come with a dip that’s every bit as craveable as the chicken itself.
With a permanent place on the menu and room for future innovations hinted at by McDonald’s execs, this feels like just the beginning of a renewed chicken era for the fast food giant. And honestly? It’s about time.
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