There are lots of reasons why top chains count on southern comfort foods to build traffic and loyalty. Just look at the success of chains such as Chick-Fil-A, KFC, Slim Chickens and Zaxby’s about their cult-like followings. Yet there are even more great reasons to serve authentic southern flavor.
Datassential says that on average, a restaurant offers four menu items described as southern today and the appeal of southern flavor is nationwide. For example, in the West, fried okra and fried pickles indexes higher on menus than mac & cheese. In the Midwest, biscuits and gravy indexes 40 points more than mac & cheese.
When you look at regions indexing highest for the flagship of southern cuisine, southern fried chicken, you find that Vermont and Connecticut index nearly as high as the Carolinas.
Southern fried chicken indexes high across nearly all states in the U.S. according to Datassential.
Southern fried chicken also has legs for the long term. Datassential’s AI-driven Menucast forecasts strong growth through 2028. Add the growth of fried chicken strips, nuggets, wings and chicken sandwiches and an investment today in southern flavor will pay off for years to come.
Fried chicken menu penetration is projected to grow significantly through 2028**.
Why House Autry Should Be Your Go-To Brand
The eastern North Carolina mill that became House Autry was established in 1812. Today, its blend of flour and corn with herbs and spices have helped to define authentic southern flavor on menus nationwide.
House Autry has innovated blends that also reduce time and labor. For example, the company’s chicken breaders eliminate the need for pre-washing fresh chicken so that the breading adheres for more complete coverage and a crunchy bite. Top chains and hundreds of regional and emerging chains count on the labor savings, authentic flavor and nimble customer support.
Chicken sandwiches, strips and nuggets are projected for continued growth*.
Other QSR chains entrust their reputation for items such as southern biscuits for breakfast choose House Autry Biscuit Mix. Others choose its Hushpuppy Mix while others swear by the company’s seafood breader and others, its pancake and waffle mix.
House Autry’s R&D Team also crafts customized flavors that tweak its recipes enabling a signature southern flavor that chains can call their own.
Experts at one of America’s top flavors for QSR, House Autry’s new 2025 Southern Flavor Guide offers additional insights that can help you grow traffic and customer loyalty and is yours when you download it. Or, request a free sample to explore your next menu innovation. Experts are likewise available to discuss a signature breader or mix just for you.
The South is definitely rising again with trending authentic southern flavors made easy for you.
*Datassential, Jan. 2025