According to Yelp, searches for “chicken sandwich” were up 125% in June compared to June 2019, when the craze exploded after Popeyes’ launched its viral sandwich.
WASHINGTON — Over the past several years, chicken sandwiches have taken the fast food industry by storm. Now, it’s time to figure out which chain serves the best ones.
Yelp has recently released its first-ever list of the top 20 fast food chicken sandwich chains in the U.S.
“Whether it’s a fiery Nashville-style filet, a buttermilk-brined classic or a saucy chicken finger creation, chicken sandwiches have taken center stage on menus across the country,” Yelp said.
According to Yelp, searches for “chicken sandwich” were up 125% in June 2025 compared to June 2019, when the craze first exploded after Popeyes’ launched its viral sandwich. The new list is based on reviews that specifically mention chicken sandwiches and only includes chains with at least 100 locations across multiple states.
Chick-fil-A topped the list, with its “its simple, perfectly seasoned chicken sandwich served on a toasted buttered bun,” Yelp said.
“The brand is known for its consistency, customer service and loyal fanbase. It’s no surprise Chick-Fil-A continues to dominate the chicken sandwich scene,” Yelp added.
Best fast food chicken sandwich chains, according to Yelp
- Chick-fil-A
- Dave’s Hot Chicken
- Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers
- Shake Shack
- Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
- Habit Burger & Grill
- Denny’s
- Wingstop
- McDonald’s
- Zaxby’s
Other major chains, such as Arby’s, Sonic Drive-In, Jack in the Box, Slim Chickens, KFC, Wendy’s and Burger King, made the list but failed to crack the top 10.
Yelp also reviewed regional chicken sandwich trends. McDonald’s and Popeye’s ranked near the top across all regions, while Zaxby’s stood out in the South and Midwest. Chick-fil-A earned strong reviews in the South and Northeast for its sauces and ingredients.