Food & Beverage

A&W launches 1st crispy chicken sandwich, offers BOGO deal

Image: A&W Restaurants

August 19, 2026

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A&W Restaurants has entered the QSR chicken sandwich market with the launch of its first-ever Crispy Chicken Sandwich, offering a buy-one, get-one-free promotion through Aug. 23.

The sandwich features a hand-breaded chicken filet served with pickles, lettuce and mayonnaise on a toasted bun. Customers can choose from three varieties: Crispy, Deluxe and a limited-time Nashville Hot option.

The menu addition arrives seven years after a viral social media debate sparked renewed nationwide interest in fast-food chicken sandwiches. To encourage diners to test the new item, A&W is offering the promotional deal upon request at participating locations.

"For the last seven years, chicken sandwich fans have been picking sides, and we've been behind-the-scenes perfecting our Crispy Chicken Sandwich recipe," Betsy Schmandt, CEO and president of A&W Restaurants, said in the release. "We know chicken sandwich loyalties run deep, but we believe one bite will win fans over. It's that good. We're confident that once you try it, you'll want to declare your loyalty to A&W."

The restaurant chain is also encouraging customers to visit AWAllegiance.com to share a loyalty pledge for a chance to have their Instagram handles featured on a digital display wall.

A&W has more than 900 locations across 35 U.S. states and Asia, including more than 600 single-brand restaurants and 230 locations co-branded with KFC or Long John Silver's.