Fried Chicken and Chicken Food in QSR Market Size, Share, Growth, And Industry Analysis by Type (Chicken Burgers and Sandwiches, Chicken Nuggets and Strips, Fried Chicken Legs, Fried Chicken Wings, Fried Chicken Breast, Chicken Salads, and Chicken Sides) by Application (Dine-in, and Takeout and Delivery) Forecast From 2025 To 2033

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FRIED CHICKEN AND CHICKEN FOOD IN QSR MARKET OVERVIEW

The global Fried Chicken and Chicken Food in QSR Market size was approximately valued at USD 44 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 74.33 Billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of about 6%.
during the forecast period.

The success of many QSRs comes in large part from their fried chicken and other chicken dishes. Because it is tasty, crunchy and liked by all, fried chicken is at the center of many menus for companies such as KFC, Popeyes, Chick-fil-A and also smaller regional chains. Because chicken is easy to work with, QSRs can make different dishes such as spicy wings, tenders or even sandwiches and wraps, opening up opportunities for many customers.

Chain restaurants involved in the QSR business are constantly experimenting with flavors, cooking approaches and local influences to compete with each other. Eating spicy chicken sandwiches, trying Korean-style fried chicken and choosing plant-based or mixed-up chicken dishes are becoming more usual. Because of increased use of delivery and ordering online, QSRs now need to ensure their chicken items don’t lose quality and stay crispy when delivered.

GLOBAL CRISES IMPACTING FRIED CHICKEN AND CHICKEN FOOD IN QSR MARKET

COVID-19 IMPACT

Fried Chicken and Chicken Food in QSR Industry Had a Positive Effect Due to Comfort-Food Appeal during COVID-19 Pandemic

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the market experiencing higher-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden market growth reflected by the rise in CAGR is attributable to the market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The pandemic created challenges for QSRs in the fried chicken and chicken-based food business by disrupting shipments, changing rules for eating out and helping them embrace technology. Right from the beginning, many QSRs dealt with a lack of chicken because of factory closures, not enough staff and challenges in getting the product. Because of this problem, some restaurants had to remove chicken sandwiches and wings from their menus for some time.

Even with the challenges, people ate more fried chicken and other chicken products than ever during the pandemic. Since many wanted comfort from their favorite foods, pizza and burgers rose in popularity when people were uncertain about things. When iconic cars were launched, fans felt a strong urge to grab one. Because of this, QSRs increased their focus on digital order systems and using ghost kitchens.

LATEST TREND

Premiumization of Fried Chicken Offerings to Drive Market Growth

There have been notable developments in the market which has the potential to boost the fried chicken and chicken food in QSR market share. Strong, worldwide influences in flavor are becoming more common in QSR fried chicken, uniting tastes such as spicy, smoky and umami. Adventurous customers enjoy this new trend in flavors. There is now a stronger push for using cleans ingredients and showing how they are used. These ingredients help take traditional fried chicken and turn it into something richer and more special.

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FRIED CHICKEN AND CHICKEN FOOD IN QSR MARKET SEGMENTATION

By Type

Based on Type, the global market can be categorized into Chicken Burgers and Sandwiches, Chicken Nuggets and Strips, Fried Chicken Legs, Fried Chicken Wings, Fried Chicken Breast, Chicken Salads, and Chicken Sides.

• Chicken burgers and sandwiches: come with fried or grilled chicken inside buns along with lettuce, mayo and pickles. Because they can be handed easily and made to your liking, they are common in QSRs.
• Chicken Nuggets and Strips: Little (nuggets) or longer (strips) pieces of fried chicken breading and usually come with dips for sale. Often eaten in snacks and meals for children.
• Fried Chicken Legs: Chicken legs are seasoned, battered and deep-fried until crispy on the outside. Traditional fried chicken isn’t complete without them.
• Fried Chicken Wings: When dined on at home or in restaurants, wings are usually eaten with your hands and are especially chosen when watching sports.
• Fried Chicken Breast: Both boneless and boned reasons are popular because of the chewy yet lean quality. You can enjoy fried chicken breast by itself or inside sandwiches.
• Chicken Salads: Either grilled or pan-fried pieces of chicken on top of fresh veggies, with cheese and nuts—occasionally with dressing. Serves up a low-fat meal that you can still find lots of protein in.
• Chicken Sides and Other: Chicken popcorn, tenders and patties are included in this section, frequently teamed up with fries or coleslaw. They go along with main dishes and add some endings to the QSR menu. 

By Application

Based on application, the global market can be categorized into Dine-in, and Takeout and Delivery.

• Dine-in: At QSRs, where customers pick-in, they enjoy their meals onsite, using the tables and getting fast service. In many cases, the type of service provided by the brand is decided between dining or self-service.
• Takeout and Delivery: Customers can choose to have their order delivered or to pick it up themselves. As a result of the pandemic, this delivery format became much more popular and gave customers access to more businesses. 

MARKET DYNAMICS

Driving Factors

Rising Demand for High-Protein Foods to Boost the Market

There are several elements inspiring the fried chicken and chicken food in QSR growth. More and more people are interested in healthy options and demand meals packed with protein. A lot of people believe chicken is a healthier alternative than red meat, especially if you grill or air-fry it. Chicken is popular with a wide array of people and fits into many dietary plans. The fact that it can be grilled, fried, spiced in many ways or seasoned differently, helps it fit with any global cuisine.

Fast Preparation to Expand the Market

Making nuggets, tenders and sandwiches with chicken is easy and you can quickly customize them with sauces, breads and toppings. Their ability to run efficiently matches perfectly with QSRs’ need for quick and flexible service. Because chicken items keep their flavor and texture throughout delivery, they are suitable for both takeout and internet orders. As a result, many people are now turning to fast food because it’s available through food delivery and ghost kitchens.

Restraining Factor

Rising Competition from Plant-Based Alternatives to Potentially Impede Market Growth

Younger and more flexible eaters are showing a fast increase in their love for plant-based "chicken" products. Unless QSRs stay ahead, it could lead to traditional fried chicken shrinking its share of the market. How poultry is raised and processed is being watched more closely these days. Problems related to factory farms, the use of antibiotics and treating animals badly may change a company’s image among consumers who prefer ethical brands. Some people do not eat fried chicken because it’s believed to be high in fat, calories and sodium. An increased understanding of obesity and heart problems may make people think twice about fast food.

Expansion Through Healthier and Alternative Chicken Options to Create Opportunity for the Product in the Market

Opportunity

Many people now choose grilled chicken, air-fried food and items that are labeled clean, meaning no use of antibiotics, organic or free-range. Fast food outlets can test both hybrid and plant-based chicken dishes that taste and feel like chicken while being environmentally friendly. It helps reach more customers and makes the brand look better. Adding Korean, peri-peri or Indian seasonings to your foods will appeal to anyone eager to try something new. By being transparent and creative, fast-food chains can make chicken seem delicious and good for the environment.  

Balancing Cost Pressures with Quality Expectations Could Be a Potential Challenge for Consumers

Challenge

Now, poultry producers must handle increased costs for feeding the birds, hiring staff and following animal welfare requirements, while keeping products affordable and of high quality for consumers. QSRs must keep their prices low, despite market changes in supplies and the economy. While demanding better quality, fair sourcing and greater nutrition, consumers are shaping the industry. Trying to meet all the needs without compromising taste, steadiness or earnings will pose a challenge.

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FRIED CHICKEN AND CHICKEN FOOD IN QSR MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

• North America

North America is the fastest-growing region in this market. The United States fried chicken and chicken food in QSR market has been growing exponentially owing to multiple reasons. Fried chicken and many chicken items are selling well in North America because so many people want tasty, fast and simple meals. Added products such as savory chicken sandwiches and distinct regional flavors have increased the company’s growth. Ordering online has led to an increase in how many people are able to order food. More and more people are searching for healthier and vegetable-based chickens. Top QSR companies are adding many new dishes and engaging in strong marketing strategies to appeal to many kinds of customers.

• Europe

In Europe, fried chicken businesses are growing by offering better, healthier foods. Many shoppers now want to buy chicken raised without antibiotics, without added hormones and in an environmentally responsible way. Asian and South American trends in seasonings and flavors are being featured more at European QSRs to tempt bold eaters. Expanding delivery and takeaway services are now helping the industry increase its growth following the pandemic. But compliance with rules and attention to the environment are encouraging brands to improve their approach.

• Asia

The region of Asia Pacific is experiencing quick growth in fried chicken and chicken food dishes, thanks to more people moving to urban areas and higher income levels. With more interest in local foods, spices are making their way onto new dishes and Korean fried chicken and spicy options have become favorites. Because the middle class and younger people are growing, they are requiring more convenient and inexpensive meals. Due to food delivery apps, market penetration has gone up in this industry.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Key Industry Players Shaping the Market Through Innovation and Market Expansion

Key industry players are shaping the fried chicken and chicken food in QSR marketplace through strategic innovation and market expansion. These companies are introducing advanced techniques and processes to improve the quality and performance of their offerings. They are also expanding their product lines to include specialized variations, catering to diverse customer preferences. Additionally, they are leveraging digital platforms to increase market reach and enhance distribution efficiency. By investing in research and development, optimizing supply chain operations, and exploring new regional markets, these players are driving growth and setting trends within the fried chicken and chicken food in QSR.

List Of Top Fried Chicken And Chicken Food In Qsr Companies   

• Call A Chicken [Pakistan]
• Restaurant Brands International Inc. [Canada]
• Cajun Operating Company [U.S.]
• Raising Cane’s USA, LLC [U.S.]
• Chick-fil-A, Inc. [U.S.]

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT

August 2021: Popeyes took significant strives ahead in the fried chicken and chicken food in QSR marketplace. They recently developed Popeyes Chicken Sandwich. The fried chicken sandwich, with its crisp, flavor-laden fried chicken filet on a buttery brioche bun, pickle, and mayo, attracted huge popularity. This huge popularity created significant foot traffic and online buzz, heralding the new era of Popeyes in the chicken QSR market.

REPORT COVERAGE       

SWOT analysis is presented in this work at a high level, and helpful recommendations regarding further evolvement of the market are considered. This paper takes an opportunity to review and discuss the market segments and possible applications that have the potential to influence the market growth in the future years. The work uses both, the data regarding the modern state of the market and the information on its evolution to identify the possible development trends.

 The fried chicken and chicken food in QSR with better portability is expected to gain high growth rates due to better consumer adoption trends, increasing application areas, and more innovative product developments. Yet, there might be some problems like, for instance, the shortage of raw materials or higher prices for them However, the growing popularity of specialized offerings and tendencies towards enhancing quality foster the growth of the market. All of them are progressing through technology and innovative strategies in developments as well as in supply chain and market. Due to changes in the market environment and growing demand for variety, the fried chicken and chicken food in QSR has a promising development since it constantly develops and expands its application.