A Look Back at the Ingredients of McDonald's Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich
For many years, the grilled chicken sandwich was a staple for customers seeking a lighter option at McDonald's. The most recent US version was the Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich, discontinued in the US around 2020 to streamline operations and simplify the menu, especially during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. This sandwich was designed with fewer ingredients than its predecessors.
The Chicken Fillet and Components
The Artisan Grilled Chicken Fillet consisted of a boneless, skinless chicken breast with rib meat. Its marinade and seasoning included water, salt, sugar, garlic powder, lemon juice concentrate, honey, onion powder, natural flavor, dried vinegar, and rice starch. Clarified butter was used for grilling.
The sandwich also featured an Artisan Roll made from various flours, including wheat and malted barley, along with yeast, sugar, wheat gluten, soybean oil, and other ingredients. The standard build came with premium lettuce and a tomato slice. The sauce varied, with the original 2015 Artisan sandwich having a light vinaigrette, later reportedly switched to a mayonnaise-based sauce. Mayonnaise ingredients typically include soybean oil, egg yolk, water, distilled vinegar, salt, sugar, and spices.
Comparison: McDonald's Grilled Chicken vs. Alternatives
The table below compares the discontinued McDonald's Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich to current McDonald's chicken items and a competitor's grilled chicken offering.
| Feature | McDonald's Artisan Grilled Chicken (Discontinued US) | McDonald's Current Chicken (e.g., McChicken) | Chick-fil-A Grilled Chicken Sandwich |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Style | Grilled, marinated chicken breast fillet | Fried, coated chicken patty | Grilled, marinated chicken breast |
| Preparation | Cooked on a grill, longer prep time | Cooked quickly in a fryer | Cooked on a specialized grill |
| Texture | Tender, juicy, with grill marks | Crispy coated outside, tender inside | Juicy, with signature seasoning and grill marks |
| Bun | Artisan Roll (premium, multigrain) | Standard sesame bun | Multigrain bun |
| Sauce | Vinaigrette or Mayonnaise | Sandwich sauce (mayo-based) | Honey mustard optional, minimal sauce on base |
| Flavor Profile | Lemon-herb seasoning, fresher taste | Classic, savory fried chicken flavor | Signature seasoning, praised for flavor |
| Availability | Discontinued in the US in 2020 | Widely available, a core menu item | Staple item on their menu |
Why was the sandwich discontinued?
The primary reason for removing the Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich from the US menu was to streamline operations and simplify the menu, particularly during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. The longer cooking time for the grilled chicken compared to fried patties reportedly caused operational issues and food waste. There were also reports of some franchisees resisting investment in equipment for new chicken products. The discontinuation was part of a strategic shift to focus on more popular, higher-volume items.
The Grilled Chicken Legacy in other countries
While the grilled chicken sandwich is no longer in the US, similar products exist internationally. For instance, McDonald's Canada lists a Grilled Chicken Sandwich with its own distinct ingredients, including a potato bun. These variations demonstrate how McDonald's adapts its menu to local tastes and capabilities, explaining why a version might be found elsewhere but not in the US.
Conclusion
The McDonald's grilled chicken sandwich, particularly the Artisan version, offered a blend of ingredients aimed at a fresh, herby flavor. It provided a different option from the standard fried items. Despite its positioning as a healthier choice, it was discontinued in the US due to operational challenges and the need for menu simplification during the pandemic. Examining the ingredients reveals what made the sandwich unique, and those seeking a similar experience might explore international menus or attempt copycat recipes.
Can I still find a grilled chicken sandwich at McDonald's today?
No, the grilled chicken sandwich was discontinued in the United States around 2020 and is not available on the current menu.
Did the ingredients in the grilled chicken sandwich change over time?
Yes, McDonald's did update the recipe. For example, the 2015 Artisan Grilled Chicken was an update from an older version, and some reports suggest a change from a vinaigrette sauce to mayo before its final discontinuation.
What replaced the grilled chicken sandwich at McDonald's?
McDonald's has continued to focus on its fried chicken sandwiches, with new and revamped versions of its crispy chicken offerings becoming the standard chicken sandwich options in the US.
Is the McChicken sandwich the same as the old grilled chicken sandwich?
No, the McChicken uses a fried, coated chicken patty and a standard bun with a different sauce, and is a completely different product from the grilled chicken sandwich.
Why was the grilled chicken sandwich taken off the menu?
McDonald's removed the sandwich to simplify its menu, which helped streamline kitchen operations and reduce complexity, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when many restaurants faced staffing and supply chain challenges.
Were there multiple grilled chicken sandwiches from McDonald's?
Yes, McDonald's has had different grilled chicken sandwich iterations over the years, with the Artisan Grilled Chicken being one of the more recent US versions.
Where can I find information on the ingredients for the current McDonald's menu?
For the most current information, you should visit the official McDonald's website for your specific region, as menus and ingredients can vary by location.
Are there any other fast food restaurants that still have grilled chicken sandwiches?
Yes, some other fast-food chains, such as Chick-fil-A and Jack in the Box, offer their own versions of grilled chicken sandwiches.
Does McDonald's offer any other healthier chicken options now?
While the grilled chicken sandwich is gone, McDonald's may offer other options like certain salads with crispy chicken, though the specific menu depends on the country.
