Wings Etc. is leaning into comfort food this fall by testing out two new twists on macaroni and cheese: the new BBQ Chicken Bacon Mac ‘N’ Cheese and the new Buffalo Mac ‘N’ Cheese.
Currently being tested at Wings Etc. locations in Cape Girardeau, Dexter, and Jackson, Missouri, both of the new macaroni and cheese options feature Wings Etc.’s signature crispy or grilled boneless chicken on top. For instance, the BBQ Chicken Bacon Mac ‘N’ Cheese features Wings Etc.’s chicken tossed in the brand’s popular BBQ sauce, all served over a plate of rich and creamy macaroni and cheese. This version also features bacon bit and shredded Cheddar Jack cheese on top as well for extra flavor. On the other hand, the new Buffalo Mac ‘N’ Cheese features Wings Etc.'s chicken tossed in the brand’s mild Buffalo sauce over a plate of creamy macaroni and cheese with shredded Cheddar Jack cheese and more Buffalo sauce on top.
BBQ Chicken-Topped Macaronis
Wings Etc. is Testing a New BBQ Chicken Bacon Mac ‘N’ Cheese
Trend Themes
1. Comfort-fusion Meals - Combining classic comfort foods with trendy ingredients, such as adding BBQ chicken and bacon to mac and cheese, appeals to consumers craving new taste experiences.
2. Customizable Fast-casual Dishes - Offering variations like BBQ and Buffalo chicken macaroni caters to a diverse set of flavor preferences and dietary desires.
3. High-flavor Dining Experiences - Incorporating bold flavors and rich ingredient combinations in a single dish enhances the dining experience and differentiates the brand in the competitive food market.
Industry Implications
1. Restaurant Industry - Experimenting with new menu items such as BBQ Chicken Bacon Mac ‘N’ Cheese shows how restaurants can innovate traditional dishes to attract patrons.
2. Comfort Food Market - Innovative twists on familiar comfort foods can stimulate interest and demand within this already popular segment.
3. Fast-casual Dining Sector - Creating unique, flavor-packed meal options can set fast-casual brands apart in a crowded marketplace.