America’s favorite foods continue to be the staple of fast food chains across the country. From burger chains to chicken wings, fast food restaurants cater to everyone’s cravings. This blog takes a look at the 31 most popular menu items in America and explains what makes them so popular. From ketchup to french fries, these items are staples on the American fast food menu. So what’s your favorite fast food dish? Are there any that we didn’t include that you think should be on the list? Let us know in the comments!
The 31 Most Popular Fast Food Menu Items in America
When it comes to fast food, chicken is the king. In fact, it’s the most popular fast food menu item in the United States. Interestingly, Taco Bell boasts the highest number of vegetarian options, while Burger King has a majority of its menu items containing either beef or pork. Although the United States has a large variety of fast food chains, these 31 menu items are the most popular on each chain’s menu. So next time you’re on the hunt for your favorite fast food dish, be sure to check out these popular selections.
- Chicken McNuggets: It is no secret that chicken is the most popular fast food dish in America. In fact, McNuggets are the top-selling item at Mcdonald’s. And for good reason – chicken is always a hit with both children and adults.
- Whopper Jr: The Whopper Jr. is the most popular burger on the McDonald’s menu, and for good reason – it’s a giant burger that comes with fries and a drink.
- French fries: America’s favorite fast food dish is french fries, hands down! Even though there are numerous different types of french fries available at various fast food restaurants, ketchup is still the most popular dipping sauce.
- Hamburger: The hamburger reigns supreme when it comes to fast food burgers – especially at Burger King where almost half of its menu items contain beef or pork.
- Chicken sandwich: Chicken sandwiches are the most popular menu item at both Chick-fil-A and Wendy’s. And no wonder – these sandwiches come with a delicious chicken patty that is piled high with cheese and mayo.
- Tacos: Taco Bell has the highest number of vegetarian menu items, which is great news for vegetarians and vegans alike. In addition to options like the Veggie Deluxe taco, Taco Bell also offers unique tacos like the Chalupa Supreme taco made out of chalupas instead of corn tortillas.
- Nachos: America’s favorite fast food dishes are definitely nachos – and not just at Mexican restaurants. Nachos can be found at almost every fast food chain, and they usually come with cheese sauce, sour cream, guacamole, and chile peppers on top.
- Hamburger helper: The Hamburger Helper is the perfect dish for anyone who loves a big burger but doesn’t have time to prepare one from scratch. These pre-made patties come in various flavors such as classic beef or chicken, buffalo chicken wrap style (a favorite of mine), bacon cheddar bunless cheeseburger, and more.
- Chicken poppers: America’s favorite fast food dish is definitely chicken poppers – and not just at the fried food chain Popeye’s. These bite-sized appetizers come in a variety of flavors, including buffalo chicken, honey barbecue chicken, cheddar bacon ranch flavored chicken patties, and garlic Parmesan cheese flavored wings.
- Pizza: Pizza is the most popular dish at both Domino’s and Papa John’s – but don’t let that fool you into thinking it isn’t versatile. Both chains offer crusts such as pepperoni, sausage, Hawaiian, and cheese. And don’t forget the toppings – there are so many to choose from that it’s hard to go wrong.
- Chicken fingers: No discussion of America’s favorite fast food dishes would be complete without chicken fingers – and not just at the fried food chain KFC. These bite-sized appetizers come in a variety of flavors, including buffalo chicken, honey barbecue sauce, cheddar bacon ranch flavored wings (my personal favorite), and garlic Parmesan cheese flavored tenders.
- Churros: Churros are Argentinian doughnuts that are fried and glazed with sugar syrup. They’re the perfect vehicle for dipping in hot chocolate or cream, and they’re also popular at fast food chains such as Dunkin’ Donuts, Starbucks, and Krispy Kreme.
- Chicken fries: Chicken fries are French-fried chicken covered in seasoned salt and served with a side of ketchup or mayonnaise. They’re the ultimate comfort food – salty, crispy, greasy goodness that feels like heaven on your tongue.
- Onion rings: Onion rings have been around since the early 1800s ( a claim the burger chain Wendy’s doesn’t contest), and they’re still one of the most popular items at drive-throughs and sit-down restaurants alike. They come in a variety of flavors, such as battered and deep fried, with a choice of dipping sauces to accompany them.
- Cheeseburger: The cheeseburger is the king of all burgers, and it’s no wonder – this dish is delicious. A cheeseburger typically consists of a hamburger patty with cheese melted on top, but there are also variations that include bacon, chicken patties, BBQ sauce.. the list goes on and on.
- Donut burger: A donut burger is a combination of a hamburger and a donut, and it’s one of the most popular fast food items around. They come in flavors such as maple bacon, sausage cheese, apple cider glazed.. the list goes on and on.
- Ketchup fries: Ketchup fries are french fries covered in ketchup or chili sauce (or both). They’re easy to make – all you need are some fresh potatoes that have been prepped with salt and pepper – but they taste so good that many people find it hard to resist them.
- Chicken tenderloin: Chicken tenderloin is a popular dish at chicken restaurants and fast food chains such as Chick-fil-A. It’s chicken breast that’s been pounded thin, then fried until it’s crispy. The resulting dish is tender but also very flavorful.
- Buffalo chicken dip: Buffalo chicken dip is one of the most popular items on the menu at any fast food chain, and for good reason – it tastes amazing! The dip consists of buffalo chicken wings (or whatever other kind of poultry you choose) mixed with cream cheese, celery, green onions, and ranch dressing.
- Apple pie fries: Apple pie fries are french fries that have been dipped in an apple pie batter and then deep fried. They’re served with a sweet syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
- Chicken tenders wrapped in bacon: Chicken tenders wrapped in bacon are another popular fast food dish – and for good reason! They’re crispy, juicy, and loaded with flavor.. the perfect way to satisfy your hunger quickly and easily.
- Chicken waffles: Chicken waffles are a dish that’s popular at fast food chains such as Chick-fil-A and KFC. They’re made by deep frying chicken breasts, then making them into thin strips that are fried until they’re crispy. The resulting dish is both yummy and convenient – you don’t have to prepare anything else other than grabbing a bite!
- Macaroni and cheese pie: Macaroni and cheese pie is one of the most popular items on the menu at any fast food chain – but it doesn’t just belong to them. It’s a dish that’s perfect for both casual meal times and special occasions. The pie consists of macaroni noodles, cheese sauce, and breadcrumbs.
- Chicken Caesar wrap: Chicken Caesar wraps are another popular fast food option – but don’t let the name fool you! They’re actually very yummy and full of flavor.. just like chicken Caesar salads usually are. The wraps consist of chicken breast (or whatever kind of poultry you choose) wrapped in a layer of romaine lettuce, then topped with croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a creamy Caesar dressing.
- Churros: Churros are a Mexican dish that’s typically fried dough served with hot syrup and ice cream. They’re the perfect food to enjoy on a hot summer day – and they don’t require any preparation other than popping them into the fryer!
- Chicken tenders nuggets: Another yummy chicken dish is chicken tenders nuggets.. which are essentially bite-sized chicken breast strips that have been breaded and then deep fried. They make for an easy, fast meal that you can enjoy either as part of a combo deal or just by themselves!
- Hot dog: Hot dogs are a classic fast food item – and for good reason! They’re simple to make, affordable, and definitely tasty. Just like any other food, hot dogs can be made in a variety of ways but the most popular versions usually include ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, and chili .
- Chipotle Border Grill Burrito: The Chipotle Border Grill Burrito is a delicious and filling dish that’s perfect for busy people on the go. It consists of a soft or hard taco shell filled with rice, black beans, chicken, or steak (or any other protein), topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, lettuce, and tomatoes.
- Subway Footlong Sub: Subway is one of America’s favorite food chains – and their Footlong Subs are no exception! They come in medium (10 inches) or large (12 inches) sizes, but either way, they’re packed full of flavor and cheese. The Subway Footlong Sub is especially popular because it’s so filling – perfect for those times when you don’t have time to cook a full meal!
- Wendy’s chili: Wendy’s chili is the perfect dish for cold winter days – and it can be made in a variety of ways to suit your own personal taste. Some people like theirs hot, while others prefer it milder. Either way, you’re sure to love its deep flavor and hearty consistency!
- Fish sandwich w/ tartar sauce: Fish sandwiches are a classic dish that can be found at any variety of restaurants – but the best ones are usually made by fishmongers who know how to grill their fish perfectly. This particular sandwich is made with salmon filet, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, and dill pickle slices on an English muffin.
Conclusion
What could be better than spending your lunch break indulging in some of your favorite fast food items? Well, if that’s the case, you’re in for a real treat! In this blog, we’ve compiled the 31 most popular fast food items in America, so be sure to check them out! From chicken nuggets to fries, this list has it all. So what are you waiting for? Dive in and start chowing down!