Wingstop (NASDAQ: WING), the brand known for bold flavors and crave-worthy chicken, has taken a flavorful step forward by filing a trademark application to officially register “National Chicken Tender Day.” The move aims to put a spotlight on Wingstop’s unique approach to tenders—distinctly seasoned, hand-tossed, and made from premium cuts—further establishing their dominance in a crowded category of generic strips and fingers.
Wingstop’s crispy tenders aren’t just another menu item—they’re a category of their own. What sets them apart? According to Wingstop, it starts with the cut. While many brands offer nondescript chicken fingers or strips made from less desirable cuts, Wingstop exclusively uses tenderloin—the most tender and premium part of the bird, often referred to as the “filet mignon of chicken.”
But Wingstop doesn’t stop at premium meat. These tenders are hand-sauced and tossed in one of 12 bold flavors that fans have come to love. From the zesty punch of Lemon Pepper to the smoky-sweet Hot Honey Rub, and the fiery yet fruity Mango Habanero, Wingstop’s flavor lineup gives fans options far beyond typical dipping sauces. The flavor isn’t just on the outside—it’s built into every bite.
“There’s a difference between chicken tenders, fingers, and strips—and Wingstop knows that better than anyone,” said Mark Christenson, Wingstop’s Chief Revenue Officer. “We’re not in the business of bland. We use premium tenderloin and hand toss each piece in one of our 12 crave-worthy flavors. Filing the trademark for ‘National Chicken Tender Day’ is our way of claiming our place at the top—and giving the finger to fingers.”
For Wingstop, the proposed National Chicken Tender Day isn’t just a marketing move—it’s a statement of pride in product quality, flavor innovation, and fan loyalty. By celebrating this day on July 27, the brand wants to highlight what makes their tenders a favorite among customers who demand more from their chicken.
To commemorate the occasion, Wingstop is turning the celebration into a full weekend affair, inviting fans to join the flavor fest. Through July 27 and beyond, guests can share their love for Wingstop’s crispy tenders on social media using the hashtag #WingstopCrispyTenders and by tagging @Wingstop. Whether it’s a fan-favorite flavor combo or a first-time experience, the brand is encouraging users to get loud about their love for tenders.
And for those looking to indulge, Wingstop has the perfect offer. Fans can order the 6-piece Crispy Tender Meal for 2, which includes a choice of two bold flavors, two sides, and two dips—making it a full-flavored meal meant to be shared, or savored solo. The meal is available through Wingstop.com and the Wingstop app, giving customers easy access to their favorite flavors from the comfort of their home.
The announcement underscores Wingstop’s ongoing mission to lead in flavor and quality, distinguishing themselves in an often homogenous field of fast-casual chicken. While other brands may treat tenders as an afterthought, Wingstop puts them at the center of the experience—emphasizing craftsmanship, quality ingredients, and of course, unbeatable taste.
In a market saturated with lookalike chicken products, Wingstop continues to differentiate itself with a bold stance on flavor and quality. The move to trademark “National Chicken Tender Day” reflects the brand’s growing influence and consumer loyalty—and signals that Wingstop intends to keep raising the bar for what chicken tenders can and should be.
Whether you’re a Lemon Pepper loyalist, a heat-seeker who can’t resist Mango Habanero, or someone discovering Wingstop’s crispy tenders for the first time, this weekend is your chance to celebrate the craveable, crunchy, flavor-packed experience that only Wingstop can deliver.
So mark your calendar for July 27, get your dipping sauce ready (especially the housemade ranch, which fans swear by), and get ready to celebrate Wingstop’s bold claim to the tender throne.
