Whataburger’s chicken strips have become a beloved menu item for fast food enthusiasts across Texas and beyond. These golden, crispy tenders offer a satisfying crunch and juicy interior that keeps customers coming back for more. Whataburger’s chicken strips are available as a standalone item, in combo meals, and as part of their popular Buffalo Ranch Chicken Strip Sandwich.
The fast food chain takes pride in its chicken offerings, using high-quality ingredients and a proprietary blend of seasonings to create a distinctive flavor profile. Whataburger’s commitment to taste and texture has helped elevate their chicken strips above many competitors in the crowded fast food market.
For those looking to enjoy Whataburger’s chicken strips at home, the company offers various ordering options. Customers can purchase these crispy delights in-store, at the drive-thru, or through the Whataburger app for convenient curbside pickup or delivery. This flexibility has helped cement Whataburger’s chicken strips as a go-to choice for quick, satisfying meals.
The History of Whataburger
Whataburger’s story began in 1950 in Corpus Christi, Texas, growing from a single burger stand to a beloved regional chain. The company’s expansion and unique offerings have made it an integral part of Texas culture.
Founding and Expansion
Harmon Dobson and Paul Burton founded Whataburger on August 8, 1950, in Corpus Christi. Dobson’s vision was to create a burger so big it required two hands to hold. The first restaurant quickly gained popularity, leading to expansion.
By 1960, Whataburger had grown to 17 locations across Texas. The company introduced its signature A-frame buildings in 1961, making the restaurants easily recognizable. Whataburger continued to expand throughout the 1970s and 1980s, reaching 400 locations by 1990.
The menu evolved over time, introducing items like the Whataburger Patty Melt and the Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich. In 1999, Whataburger by the Bay opened in Corpus Christi as a tribute to the chain’s origins.
Whataburger’s Impact on Texas Culture
Whataburger has become deeply ingrained in Texas culture since its inception. The chain’s orange-and-white striped buildings are now iconic landmarks across the state.
The company’s commitment to quality and customization has earned it a loyal following. Whataburger’s 24-hour service and extensive menu options have made it a popular late-night destination for Texans.
In 2005, Whataburger Field opened in Corpus Christi, home to the minor league baseball team Corpus Christi Hooks. This further cemented the brand’s connection to its Texas roots.
Whataburger’s influence extends beyond food. The company’s merchandise, including clothing and accessories, has become popular among Texans as a symbol of state pride.
Whataburger’s Menu Overview
Whataburger offers a diverse menu featuring classic burgers, chicken options, breakfast items, and various sides. Their made-to-order approach allows for customization across all menu categories.
Burgers and Sandwiches
Whataburger’s signature item is the Whataburger, a beef patty on a large bun with mustard, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and diced onions. The menu includes variations like the Double Meat Whataburger and Triple Meat Whataburger for heartier appetites.
The Justaburger provides a simpler option with fewer toppings. For those seeking alternatives, Whataburger offers a Grilled Chicken Sandwich.
Prices range from $5-$14 for individual burgers, with combo meals available at slightly higher price points.
Chicken Selections
Whataburger’s chicken menu features several popular items. The Whatachick’n is a breaded chicken fillet sandwich with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo.
The Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich combines chicken strips with honey BBQ sauce on a bun. It’s priced at $5.39 individually or $7.39 as a meal.
Chicken strips are available in 3-piece meals, such as the Whatachick’n Strips 3-piece Whatameal for $11.24.
For a lighter option, Whataburger offers chicken salads.
Breakfast Options
Whataburger serves breakfast items throughout the day. The menu includes classics like pancakes, biscuits, and breakfast sandwiches.
A standout item is the Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit, featuring a chicken strip on a biscuit with honey butter.
Taquitos with cheese provide a Tex-Mex breakfast option. Prices for breakfast items generally range from $3-$7.
Sides and Snacks
French fries are a popular side at Whataburger, available in regular and large sizes. Onion rings offer an alternative fried option.
For health-conscious customers, Whataburger provides apple slices as a side choice.
The menu also includes jalapeños and grilled peppers and onions as add-ons for $0.50 each, allowing customers to customize their meals.
Whataburger’s sides complement their main dishes and can be ordered individually or as part of combo meals.
Nutritional Information
Whataburger’s chicken strips pack a hefty caloric punch and contain significant amounts of fat, carbs, and sodium. The nutritional profile varies depending on serving size and accompanying sides.
Macronutrient Breakdown
A 3-piece Whatachick’n Strips order contains 550 calories. Fat accounts for 53% of these calories, with 32 grams total. Carbohydrates make up 36% of the calorie content, providing 50 grams.
Protein contributes the remaining 11%, offering 15 grams. The meal’s sodium content is high at 1530 mg, about 66% of the recommended daily intake.
When ordered as part of a meal with fries and a drink, the calorie count jumps to 1530. This combination provides 66 grams of fat, 222 grams of carbs, and 33 grams of protein.
Understanding Saturated Fat and Cholesterol
The chicken strips contain substantial amounts of saturated fat and cholesterol. A 3-piece serving has 6 grams of saturated fat, which is 30% of the daily recommended limit.
Cholesterol content is also significant at 55 mg per serving. High intake of saturated fat and cholesterol can contribute to increased risk of heart disease and other health issues.
To reduce these risks, consumers might consider limiting portion sizes or choosing lower-fat side options. Balancing the meal with fiber-rich vegetables can help offset some of the less healthy components.
Signature Chicken Strips
Whataburger’s Signature Chicken Strips are a popular menu item known for their crispy exterior and juicy interior. These hand-breaded tenders are made with premium chicken and fried to golden perfection.
Ingredients and Preparation
Whataburger’s chicken strips start with high-quality chicken tenderloins. These are dipped in a seasoned buttermilk mixture, then coated in a blend of all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and garlic salt. The breading process ensures a crispy outer layer.
The strips are fried in hot oil until golden brown and fully cooked. This method locks in moisture while creating a satisfying crunch. The cooking time is carefully monitored to prevent overcooking.
Whataburger’s recipe remains a closely guarded secret, but home cooks can achieve similar results by using fresh chicken, a well-seasoned flour mixture, and proper frying techniques.
Dipping Sauces and Accompaniments
Whataburger offers a variety of dipping sauces to complement their chicken strips:
- Honey BBQ Sauce
- Buffalo Sauce
- Regular BBQ Sauce
- Gravy
- Ranch
These sauces cater to different taste preferences, from sweet and tangy to spicy and savory. The chicken strips are typically served with a side of Texas toast and crispy fries.
For a complete meal, customers can order the Whatachick’n Strips Meal, which includes three strips, fries, a drink, and their choice of dipping sauce. The versatility of these chicken strips allows for creative menu variations, such as wraps or salad toppings.
Specialty Chicken Items
Whataburger offers a range of unique chicken options that go beyond basic strips and sandwiches. These specialty items combine flavors and textures to create memorable meals for chicken lovers.
Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich
The Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich is a fan favorite at Whataburger. It features crispy chicken strips coated in tangy honey BBQ sauce, nestled between two slices of Texas Toast. The sandwich comes with a slice of Monterey Jack cheese for added creaminess.
Lettuce and tomato provide a fresh contrast to the sweet and savory flavors. This sandwich strikes a perfect balance between comfort food and gourmet taste.
Whatachick’n Strips and Salads
Whatachick’n Strips are versatile menu items that can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a salad. The strips are hand-breaded and fried to golden perfection.
As a standalone item, they come in 3-piece servings with a choice of dipping sauce. For a lighter option, customers can add Whatachick’n Strips to any of Whataburger’s salads.
The Chicken Salad features crisp lettuce, shredded cheese, and diced tomatoes topped with sliced Whatachick’n Strips. It offers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
Monterey Jack Chicken Sandwich
The Monterey Jack Chicken Sandwich is a delicious alternative to traditional fried chicken sandwiches. It features a grilled chicken breast topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese.
The sandwich comes with fresh lettuce, tomato, and Whataburger’s signature creamy pepper sauce. Served on a toasted bun, it provides a tasty combination of grilled chicken flavor and mild cheese.
This option caters to those looking for a slightly healthier chicken sandwich without sacrificing taste. The Monterey Jack Chicken Sandwich is a popular choice for lunch or dinner.
Recipe Variations and Copycat Recipes
Whataburger’s chicken strips have inspired numerous homemade versions and adaptations. Cooks have developed creative ways to replicate the flavors and textures of this popular comfort food.
Air Fryer Adaptations
Air fryers offer a healthier alternative to deep-frying Whataburger-style chicken strips. To achieve a crispy exterior, coat the chicken tenders in seasoned flour, dip in beaten eggs, and roll in breadcrumbs.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded strips in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Spray the strips lightly with oil before cooking for extra crispiness. The result is a lower-fat version that closely mimics the original’s texture and taste.
Gluten-Free Alternatives
For those with gluten sensitivities, creating gluten-free Whataburger-style chicken strips is possible. Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed corn flakes for coating. Season the breading mixture with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to replicate the signature flavor.
Ensure all other ingredients, including buttermilk and any additional seasonings, are certified gluten-free. Deep-fry or bake the strips as usual for a safe and delicious alternative.
Homemade Dipping Sauce Creations
Whataburger’s chicken strips pair well with various dipping sauces. Create a honey mustard sauce by combining equal parts honey and Dijon mustard with a splash of apple cider vinegar.
For a spicy kick, mix mayonnaise with sriracha sauce and a squeeze of lime juice. A creamy ranch dip can be made by blending sour cream, buttermilk, and dried herbs like dill and parsley.
Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match. These homemade sauces enhance the flavor of the chicken strips and add a personal touch to your copycat recipe.
Dietary Concerns and Alternatives
Whataburger offers various options for customers with different dietary needs and preferences. While chicken strips are popular, some may seek alternatives due to health concerns or dietary restrictions.
Lower-Calorie Options
Whataburger’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a lighter choice compared to the chicken strips. It contains fewer calories and less fat while still providing protein. The Apple & Cranberry Salad with Grilled Chicken is another lower-calorie option.
For those wanting to reduce calorie intake but still enjoy chicken strips, consider ordering a smaller portion or sharing with a friend. Opting for a side salad instead of fries can also significantly reduce the meal’s calorie content.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Whataburger’s menu is limited for vegetarians and vegans. The Garden Salad without chicken is a vegetarian choice. For a vegan option, customers can order a burger without the patty and dairy toppings, adding extra vegetables instead.
Some locations may offer a veggie patty upon request, but availability varies. Sides like apple slices or a plain baked potato (without butter or sour cream) are suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
Gluten-Sensitive Choices
Whataburger’s chicken strips contain gluten due to the breading. For gluten-sensitive individuals, grilled chicken options are better alternatives. The Grilled Chicken Sandwich without the bun or wrapped in lettuce is a suitable choice.
Other gluten-sensitive options include:
- Garden Salad with Grilled Chicken (no croutons)
- Grilled Chicken Fajita Taco (corn tortilla)
- Breakfast items: Egg and Cheese Taquito (corn tortilla)
It’s important to note that while these items don’t contain gluten ingredients, cross-contamination may occur in the kitchen.
What Sets Whataburger Apart
Whataburger distinguishes itself through its commitment to quality, exceptional service, and strong community ties. These pillars form the foundation of the fast-food chain’s enduring appeal and loyal customer base.
Quality Ingredients and Freshness
Whataburger prioritizes the use of high-quality ingredients in its menu offerings. The chain’s chicken strips are made with 100% white meat chicken, ensuring a premium taste and texture. Whataburger’s unique blend of spices in their breading gives the chicken strips a distinctive flavor profile.
The Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich exemplifies Whataburger’s innovative approach to flavor combinations. This popular item features crispy chicken strips topped with tangy BBQ sauce and sweet honey butter, creating a harmonious balance of tastes.
Freshness is paramount at Whataburger. Meals are prepared to order, guaranteeing that customers receive hot, fresh food every time they visit.
Customer Service Philosophy
Whataburger’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in its service model. The chain emphasizes personalized attention and aims to create a welcoming atmosphere in its restaurants.
Employees are trained to be attentive and responsive to customer needs. This focus on service quality helps build lasting relationships with patrons.
Whataburger also offers customization options for many menu items, allowing customers to tailor their meals to their preferences. This flexibility enhances the dining experience and caters to individual tastes.
Community Involvement
Whataburger actively engages with the communities it serves. The company supports local initiatives and participates in charitable events.
Through its Whataburger Feeding Student Success program, the chain invests in education and leadership development. This initiative provides scholarships and resources to students in need.
Whataburger also partners with local sports teams and community organizations, fostering a sense of connection with its customers beyond the dining experience. These efforts help strengthen the brand’s presence and goodwill in the areas where it operates.