Chicken burgers overtake beef as America’s favorite food choice

In the United States, a notable shift in consumer preferences has emerged in the fast-food industry, where chicken burgers have gained unprecedented popularity. Analysis from DoorDash's 2024 Year-End Report highlights that chicken burgers have emerged as the top choice in 17 states, including major markets such as California, Florida, Tennessee, and Texas. This marked preference suggests a sizeable cultural change in how Americans perceive their ideal burger, moving from traditional beef patties to poultry options. This transformation is attributed to various factors, notably the viral chicken sandwich wars that began a few years ago, which sparked a nationwide craving for chicken-based offerings. As Cristen Milliner, a consumer trends expert at DoorDash, states, the continual innovation of chicken burger options by restaurants has kept the momentum alive, aligning with the rising health-conscious choice of poultry as a preferred protein source. Data indicates that 74% of Generation Z and 69% of millennials frequently order restaurant items they discover through viral social media posts, illustrating the significant influence of digital trends on dining habits. The popularity of chicken burgers is not the only trend observed, as veggie burgers have similarly gained ground, becoming the preferred choice in 13 states, including Colorado, New York, and Wisconsin. This shift indicates a larger movement towards vegetarian and vegan dining, reinforcing the evolution of American dietary preferences. Alon Chen, the CEO of Tastewise, noted a 48% year-over-year increase in chicken burger consumption and a 3.1 times growth since 2020, showcasing that these items have become staple food options rather than mere trends. As the boundaries between indulgence, wellness, and sustainability blur, chicken and veggie burgers are evolving beyond traditional definitions of diet and cuisine. Consumers today are making choices based on a variety of factors including mood and lifestyle, indicating that the food industry must adapt to meet these changing demands. This reflects a broader societal shift towards more diverse eating patterns, reshaping menus, grocery selections, and product development in the food sector across the United States.