Innovations in Chicken Cuisine: A Spotlight on Foodservice Trends

KANSAS CITY — In the ever-evolving landscape of foodservice, chicken innovations have emerged as a significant focal point for operators aiming to enhance their menus and attract customers. With chicken’s versatility and widespread appeal, brands are continually exploring new formats and flavor combinations to keep their offerings fresh and exciting.

Jollibee’s New Chicken Tenders

One notable player in this space is Jollibee, the renowned fried chicken manufacturer. The company has recently expanded its menu with the introduction of chicken tenders, specifically designed to cater to the growing demand for convenient and flavorful chicken options. Made from all-white meat chicken tenderloins, these tenders are hand-breaded with a light, crispy coating that promises to deliver a satisfying crunch.

Alongside the chicken tenders, Jollibee is also launching its signature tender sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor to this new offering. “We know that for chicken tender lovers, there’s no substitute,” remarked Luis Velasco, the senior vice president and marketing head at Jollibee Foods Corp., North America. “That’s why we crafted our new Jollibee chicken tenders with them in mind, focusing on quality and superior flavor in each bite. We’re confident our new recipe will become an instant favorite and impress even the most discerning palates.”

KFC Partners with Mike’s Hot Honey

In an exciting collaboration, Yum! Brands’ subsidiary KFC has teamed up with Mike’s Hot Honey to introduce two limited-time “swicy” offerings, which blend sweet and spicy flavors. This partnership features a three-piece tender meal that includes KFC’s original recipe tenders drizzled with Mike’s Hot Honey, as well as a two-piece fried chicken meal available in either original or extra crispy varieties, also topped with the hot honey drizzle.

Catherine Tan-Gillespie, the chief marketing officer and development officer for KFC US, expressed enthusiasm for this flavor combination, stating, “Combining KFC’s flavorful fried chicken with the bold, sweet heat of Mike’s Hot Honey just makes sense. Crispy, juicy, salty, spicy, sweet — it’s food alchemy that’s meant to be.” This collaboration highlights the growing trend of blending traditional fried chicken with innovative flavor profiles, catering to consumers’ evolving tastes.

Krispy Krunchy Chicken’s New Nuggets

Meanwhile, Atlanta-based Krispy Krunchy Chicken has also joined the wave of chicken innovations by adding chicken nuggets to its menu. These nuggets are crafted from whole-muscle white chicken breast that is marinated in a proprietary seasoning blend and then coated with the company’s signature “krunchy” breading. This new product aims to capture the attention of nugget enthusiasts and families looking for convenient meal options.

Jim Norberg, the chief executive officer of Krispy Krunchy Chicken, shared his excitement about the introduction of this product, stating, “We’re excited to introduce this product to consumers and provide our operators with a product that’s proven in market testing to drive in new customers and increase overall sales.” This approach not only enhances Krispy Krunchy Chicken’s menu but also reinforces the brand’s commitment to delivering high-quality, flavorful chicken options that resonate with their customer base.

The Growing Demand for Chicken Innovations

The recent surge in chicken innovations reflects a broader trend within the foodservice industry, where operators are increasingly focused on convenience, quality, and unique flavor experiences. As consumer preferences shift towards more diverse and exciting menu offerings, brands are responding by experimenting with new formats, ingredients, and flavor combinations that appeal to a wide range of palates.

Moreover, the emphasis on high-quality ingredients and preparation methods has become paramount. Consumers are more discerning than ever, seeking out chicken products that not only taste great but also align with their values regarding food quality and sourcing. This trend has driven brands like Jollibee, KFC, and Krispy Krunchy Chicken to prioritize quality in their new product launches, ensuring that their offerings stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Conclusion

As the foodservice industry continues to evolve, chicken remains a staple that operators can rely on to attract customers. The innovative approaches taken by brands such as Jollibee, KFC, and Krispy Krunchy Chicken exemplify the creativity and adaptability of the industry in response to consumer demands. By focusing on quality, flavor, and convenience, these brands are well-positioned to capture the attention of chicken lovers and drive sales in an increasingly competitive environment.