Popeyes plans to build on the success of its popular chicken sandwich with the introduction of chicken nuggets on July 27.
“Just like our game changing chicken sandwich, our new Chicken Nuggets are unlike anything you may have experienced before. We aim to show the world once again the magic of Popeyes chicken with our new nuggets,” said Sami Siddiqui, president of Popeyes Americas, in a statement.
Stockpiling chicken for success
The chicken nuggets launch comes nearly two years after Popeyes successfully launched their chicken sandwich. Sales of the sandwich skyrocketed, selling out in less than two weeks.
Popeyes relaunched the sandwich in November 2019, fueling a 34% sales growth for the brand that quarter.
In a sign that the brand anticipates that the chicken nuggets will be a popular addition to menus, Popeyes began stockpiling its frozen chicken inventory six months ago. Several chicken foodservice chains have reported shortages in 2021 due to a combination of bad weather, surges in consumer demand and labor shortages in poultry processing.
"Over the last six months we have been working closely with our chicken supplier partners to provide them with the estimates needed to meet the anticipated demand of our Chicken Nuggets, and we feel confident we will be able to serve our new Nuggets to eager guests despite any industry supply issues," a spokesperson told Insider.
More about the new nuggets
The new white-meat chicken nuggets will be seasoned, buttermilk-battered and fried, just like the brand’s chicken sandwich, and will be served with Popeyes’ signature sauces, which include Bayou Buffalo, BoldBQ, Blackened Ranch, Buttermilk Ranch, Mardi Gras Mustard and Sweet Heat.
The offering will be sold in store, on www.popeyes.com or through the Popeyes app beginning on July 27. Customers can purchase the nuggets in a variety of options ranging from four pieces to 36 pieces, with a 48-piece order available exclusively online. Eight nuggets will retail for $3.99, although prices may vary by location.
“We have invested the time to perfect a product that leverages our classic techniques and Louisiana flavors that will change how people think about and experience Chicken Nuggets. We think we did it again with Chicken Nuggets.” said Amy Alarcon, Vice President of Culinary Innovation, Popeyes.
“Now we can offer this famous recipe in pieces with the launch of Popeyes Nuggets.”
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