Former McDonald's Chef Explains Grilled Chicken Sandwich's Disappearance, Possibility of Return

McDonald's is exploring an expansion of its chicken offerings, potentially including the return of grilled chicken sandwiches, a healthier option that was removed from U.S. menus in 2020. The fast-food chain's executives mentioned plans to broaden its chicken lineup, encompassing grilled chicken sandwiches and wraps, amidst growing demand for protein-based choices.

According to Chef Mike Haracz, who served as McDonald's manager of culinary innovation from 2015 to 2019, the grilled chicken sandwich was discontinued primarily because it did not meet the necessary sales threshold to remain profitable. "For many of the menu items at McDonald’s, and this is true for any corporate chain restaurant, there is a certain sales threshold that means it will be profitable, and it makes sense to have in the restaurant," Haracz told Fox News Digital. "Once sales dip below a certain level, it does not make financial sense to keep it on the menu, as you will end up throwing away product."

McDonald's first introduced a grilled chicken sandwich in 1993 as a lighter alternative. The original iteration featured a marinated skinless chicken breast filet, lettuce, tomato, onion, Monterey Jack cheese, and a herb sauce on a bun. In 2015, the company updated the preparation, announcing that the grilled chicken would be cooked using canola oil, olive oil, and natural spices and herbs, rebranding it as the Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich.

Despite these efforts, the sandwich ultimately failed to maintain sufficient customer interest. Haracz noted that while some customers, particularly parents seeking healthier options for themselves, appreciated the grilled chicken, its sales performance did not justify its continued presence on the menu. The limited kitchen space at McDonald's locations is optimized for profitability, and items that do not generate adequate revenue can be quickly removed.

Haracz also suggested that the flavor profile of the grilled chicken sandwich may not have consistently impressed consumers. Furthermore, he pointed to the potential for menu cannibalization, where a new item might divert sales from existing popular products like Chicken McNuggets. By removing the grilled chicken sandwich, McDonald's might have aimed to encourage customers to choose other, more profitable chicken options.

Potential for Return

Despite its previous discontinuation, Haracz believes a comeback for the grilled chicken sandwich is possible. He cited the rising cost of beef as a significant factor that could drive McDonald's to offer more affordable protein alternatives like chicken. "I do think there’s a chance it could come back because many chains are dealing with the fact that beef prices are rising, and a way to offset that is to offer a more affordable protein option, which would be chicken," he said.

While he is uncertain about a specific resurgence of the grilled chicken sandwich, Haracz anticipates a general increase in the popularity of chicken items. "Certainly chicken items, in general, will be more popular, not only because of the beef prices, but also, that is a bigger profit margin if McDonald’s develops it appropriately," he added.

McDonald's has not yet made an official announcement regarding the return of the grilled chicken sandwich.