Fast-food chain Wendy's is launching an upgraded Spicy Chicken Sandwich, featuring a new marinade, a juicier bite and crispy panko-style breading infused with nine spices.

"The Wendy's Spicy Chicken Sandwich is iconic, and we saw an opportunity to make the best spicy chicken sandwich in the category even better," said Lindsay Radkoski, US chief marketing officer for The Wendy's Co. "After more than a year of testing and listening to consumer feedback, one thing was clear: guests wanted everything they already love, just elevated. This refresh honors the sandwich's legacy while delivering the bold, modern flavor our fans crave."

Wendy’s is also offering a revamped Classic Chicken Sandwich, which features the same upgrades. Both sandwiches are served on a new soft and slightly sweet potato bun, layered with a homestyle mayo inspired by classic Southern recipes. The Spicy Chicken Sandwich also now comes with pickles for extra crunch and balance.

Behind these changes was a comprehensive and consumer-driven development process. From ingredient selection to cooking techniques, each element was evaluated through the lens of what consumers told Wendy’s they wanted most. Evaluations included consumer focus groups and in-restaurant testing.

Wendy’s customers will also see upgrades, such as the soft potato bun, across Wendy's entire premium sandwich lineup, including the Dave's Single, Dave's Double, Dave's Triple, Baconator, Son of Baconator, Big Bacon Classic, Asiago Ranch Chicken Club, Spicy Asiago Ranch Chicken Club and Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich.

Source: The Wendy's Co.