The fast food industry has been fiercely competitive over the last few years, with brands vying for supremacy. From the “chicken sandwich wars” sparked by Popeyes in 2019 to the value meal battles of 2024, innovation and affordability are key strategies for capturing customers’ attention. This year, Applebee’s has decided to step out of the sit-down restaurant norm and join the fray with a new offering.
Applebee’s Enters the Chicken Sandwich Arena
In an effort to showcase that value-driven chicken sandwiches aren’t just for fast food chains, Applebee’s has introduced the Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich.
This new menu addition is part of the Really Big Meal Deal, which offers a sandwich, fries, and a soft drink for just $9.99. With this launch, Applebee’s is challenging the notion that affordable chicken sandwiches are exclusive to drive-thrus.
What Makes the Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich Stand Out?
Applebee’s new chicken sandwich features a crispy, hand-breaded chicken breast layered with lettuce, pickles, tomato, and mayo, all served on a toasted brioche bun. According to the chain, this sandwich is “bigger and better” than any chicken sandwich they’ve offered before.
The Really Big Meal Deal doesn’t stop at chicken. Customers can also choose the Classic Bacon Cheeseburger as part of the deal. This burger comes with applewood-smoked bacon, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles on a brioche bun. Both options include fries and a soft drink, and the meal is available for dine-in, to-go, or delivery at all Applebee’s locations.
Applebee’s Size Match Guarantee
In a bold move, Applebee’s is confident in the size of its chicken sandwich. The chain is offering a size match guarantee: if you bring in a competitor’s chicken sandwich that’s larger than the Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich, Applebee’s will add an extra chicken patty to your sandwich at no additional cost.
My Honest Review of the Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich
As a chicken sandwich enthusiast, I was eager to try Applebee’s Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich, and here’s my experience:
Pros: Size and Texture
- The sandwich lives up to its name—it’s genuinely large. The chicken breast is so big it hangs over the sides of the brioche bun, just like the promotional pictures.
- The chicken patty is perfectly crispy on the outside and remains juicy on the inside, striking the ideal balance of texture.
Cons: Toppings
- While the chicken itself was impressive, the toppings left something to be desired. The lettuce, tomato, and mayo felt insufficient compared to the generous chicken patty.
- As someone who enjoys a fresh crunch and a flavorful kick, I found myself missing the extra zest that toppings like Buffalo sauce or a more generous portion of mayo could bring.
Comparison with Fast Food Sandwiches
- Applebee’s sandwich offers more substance than fast food counterparts like Chick-fil-A or Popeyes. However, as a sit-down restaurant, it’s reasonable to expect more attention to detail, particularly with toppings.
A Customization Opportunity
- One major advantage of ordering from Applebee’s is the ability to customize. Next time, I’d request extra lettuce, a side of mayo, or perhaps a drizzle of Buffalo sauce to elevate the flavor profile.
Why Applebee’s Move Matters
Applebee’s decision to join the chicken sandwich trend reflects a broader industry shift toward delivering value while maintaining quality. By introducing the Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich at an affordable price point and offering customization options, the chain is broadening its appeal beyond sit-down diners to a more value-conscious audience.
Conclusion
The Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich is Applebee’s answer to the ongoing chicken sandwich craze, and it delivers on size and texture. While the toppings could use a bit more flair, the meal’s value and customizability make it a compelling option.
Whether you’re dining in or taking it to go, this sandwich proves that Applebee’s can hold its own in the competitive chicken sandwich space.
