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Chicken Burgers Overtake Beef in Popularity Across America
Burger enthusiasts, rejoice. The much-anticipated burger season has returned, and alongside it comes a striking revelation about America’s evolving taste in patties. As we commemorate National Hamburger Day on May 28, DoorDash has unveiled its findings on the most sought-after burger in every state, based on delivery data spanning into 2024.
The remarkable takeaway from this data indicates that chicken burgers now hold the title of the most popular burger choice in the country. This shift towards chicken, while surprising to some, underscores a significant transformation in consumer preferences.
Analyzing the Rise of Chicken Burgers
Cristen Milliner, a consumer trends expert at DoorDash, noted that the trend towards chicken burgers signifies a broader change in what Americans consider their go-to burger. She indicated that the so-called chicken sandwich wars among fast-food chains sparked a nationwide enthusiasm for chicken offerings, a trend that shows no signs of slowing down.
“From spicy options to grilled varieties, restaurants are constantly innovating their chicken burger menus, particularly as the high-protein trend pervades social media and influences consumer choices,” Milliner explained.
The enthusiasm for chicken is evidenced by statistical data. According to DoorDash’s 2025 Delivery Trends Report, a staggering 74% of Generation Z and 69% of millennials indicated that they have ordered a specific item after seeing it gain popularity online.
As Milliner remarked, the combination of chicken’s perceived health benefits and the rising availability of various chicken burger styles provide a solid foundation for its popularity across 17 states.
Geographic Preferences for Chicken Burgers
Among the states where chicken burgers reign supreme are California, Florida, Tennessee, and Texas. These regions demonstrate a growing appetite for poultry-based options, which has become evident amid escalating beef prices. Milliner posits that financial considerations may partly drive this poultry preference as consumers increasingly seek satisfying yet affordable alternatives.
Industry experts corroborate Milliner’s observations about the rise of chicken burgers. Alon Chen, the CEO of Tastewise, a food and beverage consumer intelligence platform, revealed that chicken burger consumption grew by an impressive 48% year-over-year and is now 3.1 times higher than it was in 2020.
“Chicken burgers have transitioned from a passing trend to a staple in the modern American diet,” Chen stated, further highlighting their newfound status among American consumers.
Consumer Motivations Behind Chicken Burgers
Chen elaborated on the factors driving this surge. He noted indulgence, wellness, and taste as the primary motivations behind chicken burger consumption, accounting for 17%, 14%, and 13% respectively. This wide appeal spans both health-conscious individuals and flavor enthusiasts.
Interestingly, the competition isn’t solely from chicken-based products. Veggie burgers also made an impact, with favorites in 13 states, including Colorado, New York, and Wisconsin. This suggests a growing acknowledgment and acceptance of plant-based eating among the population.
The Shift Towards Plant-Based Options
The increasing interest in vegetarian and vegan diets is unmistakable. Tastewise data indicates a 13.3% year-over-year rise in consumer interest in plant-based foods, with ingredients like lentils and quinoa gaining attention and experiencing significant growth.
“This movement goes far beyond simple menu adjustments,” Chen commented. “It signals a cultural shift towards sustainable and nutrient-rich eating.”
The Battle of the Burgers: A State-by-State Overview
While chicken burgers lead in popularity, traditional hamburgers still command loyalty in 10 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. Furthermore, cheeseburgers maintain a niche appeal, captivating consumers in only four states: Arizona, Iowa, Maryland, and Michigan. Meanwhile, turkey burgers are a favored option in six states, including Arkansas, Delaware, Mississippi, North Carolina, Virginia, and Wyoming.
A New Era of Menu Innovation
Overall, the chicken and veggie burger trend represents a fragment of larger societal changes. Chen argues that as the demarcation between indulgence, wellness, and sustainability blurs, both chicken and veggie burgers emerge as defining elements of contemporary dining.
“Today’s consumers don’t merely face a choice between meat and plant-based options; they select based on their moods, the moment, and their motivations,” he stated. This phenomenon is reshaping menus, grocery aisles, and product innovations across the nation.
As the culinary landscape continues to evolve, the prominence of chicken burgers signifies a shift towards a more diversified and health-conscious approach to dining in America.
