A recent report on chicken nugget preferences in the United States revealed that McDonald’s is the favorite in 21 states, followed by Chick-fil-A in 19 states. Wendy’s came in third overall, but first in New York and New Jersey. Burger King was only the top choice in Kansas and Vermont, while Popeyes was popular in Louisiana. Kentucky Fried Chicken was a favorite in its namesake state.
In North Carolina, the local chain Cook Out was declared the favorite among nugget lovers. This regional staple, originating in Greensboro in 1989, offers hush puppies and classic milkshakes alongside their nuggets. The report also noted that Columbus, Ohio, home to Ohio State University, leads the nation in nugget consumption, with an average of 16.5 nuggets per meal from Wendy’s, which is headquartered in the city.
The dominance of McDonald’s in the chicken nugget market was evident in the report, with a majority of states choosing the fast-food giant as their favorite nugget provider. Chick-fil-A, popular in the South, also garnered a significant number of votes across the country. Wendy’s, known for its spicy nuggets, was a regional favorite in the Northeast, while smaller chains like Cook Out made waves in certain states.
Burger King’s nuggets, often overlooked in the fast food landscape, were the top choice in Kansas and Vermont, showcasing the diversity of preferences in different regions. Popeyes and KFC, known for their unique flavors and recipes, also had a strong showing in their respective home states. The data highlighted the significance of regional chains and local favorites in the competitive world of chicken nugget offerings across the country.
Overall, the report provided valuable insights into the chicken nugget landscape in the United States, showcasing the preferences of consumers in different states. From well-known chains like McDonald’s and Chick-fil-A to regional favorites like Cook Out and New York’s Wendy’s, the diversity of choices available reflects the varied tastes of nugget enthusiasts nationwide. The research also shed light on nugget consumption patterns in specific locations, such as Columbus, Ohio, where residents enjoy a high average of nuggets per meal from Wendy’s.
