Excited for something new at Zaxby’s? In 2025, Zaxby’s is spicing things up with fresh menu items that bring bold flavors and Southern flair. From returning favorites like the Fried Chicken Philly to new twists like the Spicy Zensation Zalad, there’s plenty to try. This guide covers all the new and limited-time offerings, their prices, and what makes them special. We’ve scoured Zaxby’s website, customer reviews, and online buzz to give you the latest scoop. Let’s check out what’s new at Zaxby’s menu in 2025!
Why Zaxby’s Keeps Innovating
Zaxby’s, a Southern fast-food chain with over 900 locations, is known for its chicken fingers, wings, and zesty sauces. To keep fans excited, they roll out limited-time offers (LTOs) and test new items each year. In 2025, Zaxby’s builds on past successes like the 2023 Fried Chicken Philly campaign, which sold three times the expected units. New items aim to attract younger diners, compete with rivals like Chick-fil-A, and expand into new markets like Pennsylvania. Below, we detail the new and returning menu items for 2025, based on Zaxby’s announcements and customer feedback.
New and Limited-Time Menu Items in 2025
Zaxby’s 2025 menu features a mix of returning favorites and fresh additions. Here’s the lineup, with prices based on averages from Georgia, Florida, and Texas locations.
Fried Chicken Philly (Returning)
- Description: A bold take on a Philly cheesesteak with three chopped Chicken Fingerz, melted White American cheese, sautéed peppers and onions, creamy garlic aioli, and a toasted hoagie roll. Launched in 2023, it returned in January 2025 due to popularity.
- Price:
- Alone: $8.49
- Combo (with fries and drink): $10.99
- Nutrition:
- Calories: ~700
- Fat: 35g
- Carbs: 50g
- Protein: 30g
- Why It’s Special: The garlic aioli adds a Southern twist, and a grilled chicken option is available for a lighter bite (~600 calories). Customers on Reddit call it “bussin” but note small veggie portions at some locations.
- Availability: Nationwide at participating locations, January–March 2025 (may extend).
Spicy Zensation Zalad (New)
- Description: A fiery twist on the Zensation Zalad, with mixed greens, red cabbage, carrots, crispy wonton strips, Asian slaw, a spicy honey sesame glaze, and a veggie egg roll. Choose grilled or fried chicken.
- Price:
- Grilled: $11.29
- Fried: $11.49
- Garden (no chicken): $9.29
- Nutrition (with citrus vinaigrette):
- Grilled: ~680 calories, 28g fat, 62g carbs, 40g protein
- Fried: ~820 calories, 40g fat, 74g carbs, 38g protein
- Why It’s Special: The spicy glaze adds heat, balancing the sweet citrus vinaigrette. A TikTok review praised its “perfect crunch and kick.”
- Availability: Launched October 2024, available through spring 2025 at select locations.
Buffalo Chicken Nachos (New, Test Market)
- Description: Tortilla chips topped with chopped Buffalo Chicken Fingerz, queso blanco, pico de gallo, jalapeños, and ranch drizzle. Tested in markets like Atlanta and Orlando.
- Price: $7.99 (8 oz)
- Nutrition:
- Calories: ~900
- Fat: 50g
- Carbs: 80g
- Protein: 30g
- Why It’s Special: A shareable, bold appetizer for game days or group meals. Customers on X called it “a spicy game-changer.”
- Availability: Limited to test markets (Georgia, Florida). May expand in summer 2025.
Birthday Cake Milkshake (Returning)
- Description: Vanilla ice cream blended with cake batter flavor, rainbow sprinkles, whipped cream, and a cherry. Part of Zaxby’s 2025 anniversary promotions.
- Price: $4.99 (16 oz)
- Nutrition:
- Calories: ~700
- Fat: 30g
- Carbs: 85g
- Protein: 12g
- Why It’s Special: Its sweet, nostalgic flavor is a fan favorite. A Yelp review called it “a party in a cup.”
- Availability: Spring 2025 at select locations (e.g., Atlanta, Birmingham).
Fried Pickles (Returning)
- Description: Breaded dill pickle slices served with ranch. A hit from 2023, back in 2025.
- Price: $3.99 (6 oz)
- Nutrition:
- Calories: 540
- Fat: 35g
- Carbs: 50g
- Protein: 5g
- Why It’s Special: Crunchy and tangy, perfect for dipping. Reddit users say they’re “addictive but sell out fast.”
- Availability: Select locations, January–April 2025.
Internal Link Suggestion: Check out Zaxby’s Full Menu for all menu options.
Why These New Items Stand Out
Zaxby’s 2025 additions are designed to keep fans excited and attract new customers:
- Bold Flavors: The Spicy Zensation Zalad and Buffalo Chicken Nachos bring heat, appealing to spice lovers.
- Nostalgia and Innovation: The Fried Chicken Philly and Birthday Cake Milkshake blend comfort with fresh twists.
- Market Expansion: Items like the Philly tie into Zaxby’s push into Pennsylvania, with 10 new locations planned for 2025.
- Customer Demand: Returning items like Fried Pickles and the Philly reflect fan feedback from 2023 and 2024.
However, limited availability (e.g., nachos in test markets) and inconsistent portions (e.g., Philly veggies) are common complaints.
Customer Feedback on New Items
Here’s what fans are saying, based on Reddit, TikTok, and Yelp:
- Fried Chicken Philly: Loved for its crispy chicken and aioli. A Reddit user said, “It’s not a real Philly, but it slaps.” Some note small onion portions.
- Spicy Zensation Zalad: Praised for its bold glaze and crunch. A TikTok review called it “spicy but not overwhelming.”
- Buffalo Chicken Nachos: Early reviews from Atlanta call them “perfect for sharing” but wish for bigger portions.
- Birthday Cake Milkshake: Fans love the sweet, festive vibe. A Yelp review warned it’s “too sweet for some.”
- Fried Pickles: A crowd-pleaser, but availability is spotty, frustrating fans.
People Also Ask: Common Questions Answered
Here are answers to popular questions from Google’s “People Also Ask” section:
What Are Zaxby’s New Menu Items for 2025?
New items include the Spicy Zensation Zalad ($11.29–$11.49), Buffalo Chicken Nachos ($7.99, test markets), and returning Fried Chicken Philly ($8.49), Birthday Cake Milkshake ($4.99), and Fried Pickles ($3.99).
Are Zaxby’s New Items Gluten-Free?
Most new items contain gluten: Fried Chicken Philly (breaded chicken, roll), Spicy Zensation (wonton strips, egg roll), Fried Pickles (breading), and Nachos (fried chicken). The grilled Philly (no roll) may be safer, but cross-contamination is a risk. Check with staff.
How Long Are Zaxby’s Limited-Time Items Available?
The Fried Chicken Philly and Fried Pickles are available January–April 2025, Spicy Zensation through spring, and Birthday Cake Milkshake for spring promotions. Nachos are in test markets, with potential expansion.
Where Can I Find Zaxby’s New Items?
Available at participating locations. Nachos are limited to test markets (e.g., Atlanta). Check zaxbys.com or call your local store.
Internal Link Suggestion: Learn about Zaxby’s Sides Menu for more on Fried Pickles.
Zaxby’s New Items vs. Competitors
How do Zaxby’s new offerings compare to rivals in 2025?
- Chick-fil-A:
- New Items: Maple Pepper Bacon Sandwich ($7.99), seasonal Peach Milkshake ($5.29).
- Comparison: Chick-fil-A’s sandwich is cheaper but simpler. Zaxby’s Philly and Nachos offer bolder flavors.
- Wendy’s:
- New Items: Saucy Nuggs ($6.99), Triple Berry Frosty ($3.49).
- Comparison: Wendy’s is cheaper, but Zaxby’s salads and Philly have more variety.
- Popeyes:
- New Items: Honey Lemon Pepper Wings ($7.99), Fluffy Biscuit Sandwich ($5.99).
- Comparison: Popeyes’ wings compete with Zaxby’s Nachos for spice, but Zaxby’s has more unique sides.
Winner: Zaxby’s for variety and Southern flair, though Chick-fil-A and Popeyes offer competitive prices.
External Link Suggestion: Visit Zaxby’s Menu for official details.
Tips for Trying Zaxby’s New Items
- Order Early: Limited-time items like Fried Pickles sell out fast. Visit during lunch hours.
- Use the App: Order via zaxbys.com or the Zaxby’s app for deals (e.g., 2024’s buy-one-get-one Philly offer). Add notes for extra aioli or wonton strips.
- Check Availability: Call your local Zaxby’s to confirm items like Nachos or Banana Pudding.
- Join Zax Rewardz: Earn points on new items. Redeem for free fries or shakes.
- Pair Smartly: Try Nachos with a drink, or the Philly with coleslaw for balance.
Are Zaxby’s New Items Worth It?
Zaxby’s 2025 items are a hit for their bold flavors and value:
- Value: Prices ($3.99–$11.49) align with competitors, and combos add fries and drinks.
- Taste: The Philly and Spicy Zensation Zalad earn high praise for creativity. Nachos are a fun shareable option.
- Drawbacks: Limited availability (e.g., Nachos in test markets) and potential portion inconsistencies.
If you love Zaxby’s Chicken Fingerz, the Philly and Nachos are must-tries. The Spicy Zensation is perfect for salad fans, and the milkshake adds a sweet treat.
How to Order Zaxby’s New Items
- In-Store/Drive-Thru: Ask about new items or promotions. Request fresh prep for crispy Philly or pickles.
- Online: Use zaxbys.com or the Zaxby’s app for pickup. Customize orders (e.g., grilled Philly).
- Delivery: Available via DoorDash/Uber Eats. Expect $2–$5 fees.
- Catering: Fried Pickles and Nachos may be available in bulk at select locations ($15–$25 for 10 servings).
Final Thoughts
Zaxby’s new menu items in 2025 bring exciting flavors to the table. The Fried Chicken Philly ($8.49), Spicy Zensation Zalad ($11.29–$11.49), Buffalo Chicken Nachos ($7.99), Birthday Cake Milkshake ($4.99), and Fried Pickles ($3.99) offer something for everyone. Whether you’re after a spicy salad or a shareable snack, these items deliver Southern comfort with a modern twist. Use Zax Rewardz for deals and order early to catch limited-time offerings. For more Zaxby’s updates, visit Zaxby’s Menus.
