10 Things About McCrispy Strips That Surprised Me and 5 That Left Me Wanting

Discover the delightful surprises and slight disappointments that come with McDonald’s McCrispy Strips. These chicken strips offer more than meets the eye, but there’s room for improvement. Here are ten aspects that pleasantly surprised me and five that left me yearning for more. Dive into a flavorful journey with me as we explore what makes these strips stand out in the fast-food world.

1. They’re Bigger Than Expected

McCrispy Strips are larger than anticipated, offering a satisfying bite that contradicts fast-food expectations. The size makes them a hearty option, especially when compared to the nuggets, which often fall short in portion size. These strips provide a fulfilling alternative to smaller offerings, making them feel like more of a meal than a snack. Their generous size means each bite delivers ample flavor and texture, enhancing the eating experience. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or a late-night snack, the size of these strips ensures you won’t leave the table hungry. Perfect for when you’re craving something substantial.

2. The Batter Is Extra Crispy

The batter on McCrispy Strips lives up to its name, delivering an impressive crunch that satisfies with every bite. Unlike some fast-food chicken, which can become soggy, the outer layer maintains its crispness, offering a textural delight. Even after a few minutes in the bag, the crunchiness holds, making it a reliable choice for those who appreciate a little texture with their chicken. This much-desired crunch enhances the overall enjoyment of each strip. If you’re a fan of crispy chicken, these strips are sure to meet, if not exceed, your expectations.

3. Juicy, Not Dry

Inside the crispy exterior lies a surprisingly tender and juicy piece of chicken. The moisture level is just right, countering the dry texture that sometimes plagues fast-food chicken. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the crunchy outside and succulent inside, creating a satisfying eating experience. This juiciness makes them a standout option, as it ensures the strips are flavorful and not bland. For those who worry about dryness, these strips deliver a moistness that impresses and satisfies, bite after bite. A refreshing change from the norm, they redefine expectations.

4. Mildly Spiced But Not Boring

McCrispy Strips offer a subtle seasoning that balances flavor without overwhelming the palate. With hints of pepper, garlic, and perhaps paprika, the seasoning provides a gentle kick that is both pleasing and distinctive. This mild spice profile keeps the strips interesting to eat, avoiding the blandness that sometimes accompanies fast food. It’s a flavor that complements rather than overpowers, making it versatile for a variety of dipping sauces. For those seeking a nuanced taste experience, these strips offer just the right amount of seasoning to satisfy.

5. Good Without Sauce (But Better With)

On their own, McCrispy Strips stand up well, delivering enough flavor to be enjoyed without extra accompaniments. Their seasoned batter and juicy interior make them a standalone treat. However, when paired with sauces like honey mustard or spicy buffalo, they truly shine, as the added flavors enhance the overall taste. The versatility of these strips means they can cater to both purists and sauce enthusiasts alike. Whether you prefer them plain or with a kick, McCrispy Strips deliver a satisfying taste experience that can be customized to your liking.

6. They Reheat Decently (Air Fryer Tested)

McCrispy Strips have the remarkable ability to maintain their quality even after reheating. When using an air fryer, the strips regain their crispy texture, making leftovers just as enjoyable as the first serving. This reheating capability is a rare find in fast food, as many items lose their appeal once cold. The combination of a crispy exterior and a juicy interior remains intact, ensuring a delicious eating experience. Whether you’re saving some for later or reheating extras, McCrispy Strips prove to be a tasty choice that withstands the test of time.

7. Less Greasy Than Expected

One of the unexpected benefits of McCrispy Strips is their lower grease level, making them a cleaner fast-food option. Unlike other fried foods that leave fingers slick, these strips can be enjoyed without constant napkin use. This surprising feature allows for a more pleasant eating experience, free from the usual mess associated with fried chicken. The reduced greasiness not only adds to their appeal but also enhances the overall flavor, allowing the seasoning and natural chicken taste to shine through. It’s a welcome change for those seeking a tidier meal option.

8. Dippable, Not Floppy

The structural integrity of McCrispy Strips makes them ideal for dipping, maintaining their shape without breaking or becoming floppy. This dippability is crucial for those who love to pair their chicken with various sauces. Unlike some flimsy alternatives, these strips offer a satisfying crunch and remain intact, even with enthusiastic dipping. Their robust nature allows for creative flavor combinations, enhancing the dining experience. For sauce lovers, McCrispy Strips provide the perfect canvas to explore taste possibilities, ensuring each bite is a delightful adventure.

9. Portion Size Feels Fair

When it comes to portion size, McCrispy Strips offer a generous amount that feels satisfying. Whether selecting a three or four-piece option, the quantity aligns well with one’s hunger levels. Paired with fries or a side salad, the meal is both filling and enjoyable without leaving you wanting more. This balance is rare in fast food, where portions can often feel lacking. The strips’ substantial size contributes to this fullness, ensuring a dining experience that feels fair and fulfilling. It’s a refreshing take on fast-food portions that doesn’t disappoint.

10. They Feel Like a Real Menu Upgrade

McCrispy Strips represent a noticeable step up from traditional fast-food chicken offerings, indicating a shift towards quality and taste. This upgrade is apparent in both the texture and flavor, as the strips offer a more refined experience. The effort to elevate the menu is clear, making these strips a standout option amidst standard offerings. Their presence reflects a commitment to innovation and quality, suggesting a new direction for fast-food dining. For those seeking something beyond the ordinary, McCrispy Strips provide a delightful and welcome change.

11. No Bold Flavor Option

Despite their flavorful nature, McCrispy Strips lack a bold option for those seeking extra heat or intensity. While the seasoning is pleasant, it doesn’t cater to those who crave something more adventurous in taste. A spicy version could easily capture the hearts of those who enjoy a fiery kick, adding another layer to the menu. The absence of a bold-flavor variant leaves room for improvement and potential menu expansion, which could attract a wider audience. For now, those wanting an extra punch will need to resort to dipping sauces.

12. Limited Sauce Selection

McCrispy Strips come with a limited selection of sauces, which may not satisfy those looking for variety. While classic choices like honey mustard and BBQ are available, more adventurous options like creamy garlic or chipotle are missed. This limitation can make the eating experience feel repetitive for those who enjoy exploring different flavor profiles. Expanding the sauce range could enhance the dining experience, offering new and exciting combinations. Until then, aficionados may need to get creative with their own sauce pairings to achieve desired taste nuances.

13. No Combo with a Twist

While McCrispy Strips are a satisfying option, the accompanying combo meals lack originality. Standard sides like fries and drinks don’t offer anything new or exciting to the dining experience. A fresh twist, such as offering coleslaw or a unique side, could elevate the meal and provide additional appeal. This gap in the menu leaves room for creative ideas that could enhance the overall enjoyment. For now, customers seeking variety may need to supplement their meal with outside options. The introduction of new sides could transform the combo into something memorable.

14. Pricey for What It Is

The cost of McCrispy Strips may surprise those expecting typical fast-food pricing. While not exorbitant, the price point is higher than anticipated for chicken strips. This premium cost can deter those seeking budget-friendly options, especially when considering meals for multiple people. Despite the quality and taste, the price may not align with everyone’s expectations. For some, the price-to-value ratio is worth it, given the flavor and portion size. However, for those on a tight budget, this might be a splurge rather than a regular choice.

15. Only Available at Select Locations (For Now)

Currently, McCrispy Strips are only available at select locations, which can be frustrating for eager customers. This limited availability restricts access for those who have heard the buzz but cannot find them nearby. As distribution expands, more customers will have the opportunity to try these unique offerings. Until then, some may face disappointment when searching for these elusive strips. The potential for a broader rollout exists, which would satisfy growing demand. For now, finding McCrispy Strips might involve a bit of a journey for fans.