Chicken sandwich

Chicken sandwich
Jack in the Box's basic chicken sandwich.
Type	Chicken sandwich
Introduced	circa 1991

A chicken sandwich is a sandwich that typically consists of boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh, served between slices of bread. Variations on the "chicken sandwich" include chicken on a bun, chicken on a Kaiser, hot chicken, or chicken salad sandwich.

Since the introduction of the Chicken Supreme in 1980, Jack in the Box has served a variety of chicken sandwiches. Its basic chicken sandwich was introduced circa 1991.

Background

In the United States, the chicken sandwich usually consists of a chicken filet or patty, toppings and bread. The chicken meat can be deep fried, grilled, roasted or boiled, served hot or cold, and white or dark meat chicken can be used. Shredded chicken in one form or another, such as chicken salad, can also be used in chicken sandwiches. Another form is made with cold cuts. Wrap versions of the sandwich can also be made, in which the ingredients are rolled up inside a flatbread, such as a tortilla. Open-faced versions of the chicken sandwich, which feature hot chicken served with gravy on top of bread, are also common variations.

The ongoing competition for market share in the United States in fried chicken sandwiches has demonstrably impacted the fast casual and quick-service restaurant industry. This competition has coincided with a significant rise in the prevalence of fried chicken sandwiches on menus nationwide. As of 2024, 47% of restaurant menus feature fried chicken sandwiches, compared to 41% for burgers. This represents a 10% increase for chicken sandwiches from 2020 to 2021. While burgers may still hold the overall popularity edge, the increasing presence of fried chicken sandwiches on menus suggests a growing consumer demand.

Jack in the Box

The chicken sandwich in a 1991 commercial.

Jack in the Box's basic chicken sandwich was introduced circa 1991. It consists of a chicken patty in a bun with mayonnaise and lettuce. When introduced, it also had tomato.

The chicken sandwich appears to have been removed from the menu in mid-2024. However it is speculated that the Jr. Chicken Sandwich is the same product.

Ad copy

Breaded chicken with lettuce & real mayonnaise on a toasted buttery bakery bun. So simple, so good, it sorta makes you wanna cry.

Reception

Brand Eating compared it negatively to "the chicken sandwiches they served us back in elementary school in the cafeteria for lunch." Mashed called it "truly one of the worst fast food chicken sandwiches that you will ever come across."