Jollibee’s signature fried chicken has secured another top honor in a crowded American market. The chain’s Chickenjoy took first place in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for fast-food fried chicken, marking the third consecutive year of the same result. The outcome underscores steady customer preference rather than a single surge in popularity.
Why the Repeat Victory Stands Out
The award comes from a process in which industry experts first nominate finalists and the public then votes. This structure gives weight to actual diner experience across the country. Three straight wins indicate that Jollibee has maintained quality and consistency at a level that continues to draw support even as major domestic chains compete for the same customers. The result also reflects broader trends in how travelers and residents seek familiar options while moving through different regions. For many, the chain serves as a reliable stop that delivers a specific taste profile without requiring adjustment to new menus.
Leadership Perspective on Consistency
Ernesto Tanmantiong, Global President and Chief Executive Officer of the Jollibee Group, noted that the recognition reflects ongoing attention to quality, taste, and service with every order. He linked the award to the company’s plans for further international growth, stating that it reinforces confidence in the brand’s approach. Maribeth dela Cruz, President of Jollibee Philippine Brands North America, thanked voters and regular customers for their continued support. She also credited restaurant teams for delivering the experience that keeps people returning.
Additional Recognition and Market Position
Chickenjoy has collected other distinctions in recent years. It was named Best Fast-Food Fried Chicken by Eater.com in 2022 and Best Chain Fried Chicken in America by Thrillist in 2021. These earlier honors add context to the current three-year streak. Jollibee now runs roughly 100 locations in North America and more than 1,800 stores worldwide. The footprint continues to grow as demand for its core menu items remains steady among both longtime fans and new diners. – Eater.com Best Fast-Food Fried Chicken (2022)
– Thrillist Best Chain Fried Chicken in America (2021)
– USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice, first place (2024, 2025, 2026)
Implications for Brand and Travelers
The sustained recognition strengthens Jollibee’s standing as an international operator that competes directly with established U.S. names on their home ground. For overseas Filipinos and other frequent travelers, the chain offers a consistent point of reference across cities and airports. The pattern of reader votes suggests that product execution and service reliability matter more than novelty in this category. As the company expands, maintaining those standards will determine whether the current momentum continues.
