McDonald’s now sells as much chicken as beef

The new Chicken Big Mac features tempura-fried chicken instead of the traditional beef patty, but retains the ingredients of the original Big Mac, such as special sauce, pickles, shredded lettuce and American cheese, all served on a sesame seed bun.

The Big Mac, which has been a staple of McDonald’s since 1968, is now officially appearing in a chicken version in the United States for the first time. The introduction of the new product reflects the company’s efforts to expand its range of chicken products. Chris Kempczinski, CEO of McDonald’s, emphasized that chicken sales are already on par with beef at the chain.

In addition, McDonald’s is taking additional steps to remain attractive to cost-conscious consumers. In September, they announced they would extend their $5 value offer through December, part of a strategy by the fast-food chain to stay competitive with other players such as Popeyes, Dunkin’, Burger King and Taco Bell.