I tried chicken tenders from Sonic, KFC, and Smashburger. I had a clear winner and one serious disappointment.
Chicken Tender Comparison Overview
In a comparison across several fast-food chains, Smashburger stood out for its chicken tenders, earning high marks for both portion size and overall quality.
Smashburger Performance
The tenders were notably large—closer in size to small fried chicken fillets than traditional tenders—offering a more substantial portion despite coming in a three-piece order.
From a texture standpoint, they delivered a strong balance with a thick, crispy coating and a savory, lightly seasoned flavor. While the taste held up on its own, the tenders were seen as even better when paired with a dipping sauce or incorporated into another format like a wrap.
Overall Takeaway
Among the chains tested, Smashburger’s tenders were viewed as a standout option, delivering on size, texture, and flavor, and leaving a strong overall impression despite minor opportunities for enhancement with sauces.
Source Mention
Originally featured in Business Insider:
“Tried chicken tenders at Sonic, KFC, & Smashburger”