McDonald’s is rolling out a new recipe for its McCrispy strips following widespread customer disappointment with the previous version. Fans criticized last year's release for being too skinny and featuring a thin, underwhelming breading. The fast-food giant has spent recent months listening to consumer feedback to address these quality concerns.
The updated recipe features a crispier and more robust exterior designed to satisfy customers looking for a crunchier texture. These improved strips will also serve as the anchor for the chain's popular Snack Wraps. Corporate leaders hope the sturdier breading will keep the chicken crispy throughout every bite of the rolled tortilla.
After a substantial number of complaints regarding McDonald's McCrispy Strips, the fast food chain is changing the recipe to be crispier and thicker. https://t.co/qSI2ejZIF7
— The Takeout (@thetakeout) July 6, 2026
There is no uniform nationwide launch date for the new recipe since individual franchise locations must transition at their own pace. Each restaurant will need to fully deplete its existing inventory before clearing the way for the updated strips. This measured rollout ensures that food waste is minimized across the company's domestic supply chain.
Early reviews of the modified chicken strips suggest that the changes are a significant step in the right direction. Social media user snachwithzach posted a video demonstrating the visible differences in the new product. He described the updated breading as markedly craggly and bumpy compared to the original version.
@snachwithzach McDonald’s is changing its McCrispy Strips just a year after they originally landed on the menu as a permanent item. The new iteration of McDonald’s McCrispy Strips look to more closely emulate the beloved Chicken Selects, using a heavier breading to deliver a crispier bite. They’ll be rolling out to McDonald’s restaurants nationwide over the course of this week, taking the place of the original McCrispy Strips as stores run out. Will you be trying McDonald’s updated McCrispy Strips? #mcdonalds #fastfood #foodtok #chickentenders #chickennuggets
The reviewer also tested the updated strip inside a Snack Wrap to see how it performed under real-world conditions. "These are absolutely gonna hold up better in the Snack Wrap," snachwithzach stated in his video. While the overall flavor profile remains similar, the physical improvements draw favorable comparisons to popular wholesale warehouse tenders.
Texture remains a matter of personal preference, but the change aligns closely with the beloved Chicken Selects of the past. The adjustment represents a sensible compromise by a private-sector leader trying to earn back the trust of its customer base. Hungry consumers can expect a much more satisfying crunch during their next drive-thru visit.