The Best Fast Food Breakfast Sandwiches, Ranked

Did you know McDonald's was the first fast food joint to offer breakfast options in the early 1970s? It took a few years before other fast food restaurants started making breakfast items for hungry commuters. Now, almost every popular fast food chain serves its version of breakfast combining bacon, egg, American cheese, and crispy hash browns in every combination possible.

What Fast Food Chain Has the Best Breakfast?

Whenever my fiancee and I go on a road trip we always have to pick up a fast food breakfast sandwich before we hit the highway. I don't eat fast food breakfast other than when I need to nurse a hangover or I'm traveling. Usually, it's a McGriddle from McDonald's or a biscuit from Bojangles so taking on this challenge and testing all these items was really fun and exciting.

To pick, I asked the drive-thru attendants what the most popular breakfast menu item was and ordered it. Some I would have never ordered on my own, so I'm glad I got all of their insight!

Bojangles - Cajun Chicken Biscuit

This North Carolina fast food restaurant is known for its biscuits and chicken, so its no surprise that the most popular item on their menu is the Cajun Chicken Biscuit.

This Cajun-spiced chicken filet sits on top of Bojangle's signature flaky biscuit and comes with Bo Rounds.

Verdict: The chicken and biscuit were dry, making it a messy morning meal in the car. It also requires a drink, so make sure to grab a sweet tea in the drive thru to avoid the biscuit sticking to the top of your mouth.

Dunkin' - Maple Sugar Bacon Breakfast Sandwich

Is Dunkin' more than their Dunkin' donuts and coffee? When prompted what the most popular breakfast item on the menu was, the Dunkin' employee had no hesitation to tell me about the Maple Sugar Bacon Breakfast Sandwich, which was introduced three years ago.

Verdict: The bacon was super sweet, and paired great with the buttery croissant. However, paired with an iced coffee it was a bit of a sugar overload for me.

Sonic Drive-in - Bacon Breakfast Burrito

I never really think of Sonic for breakfast, so this stop was a first for me! Surprisingly the most popular breakfast item I was suggested was the Bacon Breakfast Burrito. Filled with scrambled eggs, bacon, shredded cheddar, and rolled in a tortilla, this meal is usually served with their Picante sauce or a side of jalapeno slices.

I was secretly hoping to get one of their Texas Toast meals, but it turns out the burritos are more popular!

Verdict: It was everything you could ask for in a breakfast burrito! That being said, I can make these at home pretty easily.

Burger King - Sausage, Egg & Cheese Croissan'wich

This sausage, egg, and cheese sandwich is the quintessential breakfast sandwich. The sausage patty pairs perfectly with the egg and cheese.

Verdict: It's a great breakfast sandwich to enjoy on the go!

Chick-fil-a - Chick-n-Minis

Have your chicken nuggets any time of the day! Served in a 4- pack, this breakfast meal is different from the rest because instead of an English muffin, crossiant or bagel, the chicken nuggets are served in buttery yeast rolls.

According to the employee, many people order Chick-fil-A sauce with their minis. I couldn't go that far.

Verdict: Poppable and super easy to eat on the go.

Wendys - Breakfast Baconator

If you are hungry, this is the meal for you. Freshly cracked eggs, six strips of crispy Applewood smoked bacon, sausage, American cheese, all served with a swiss cheese sauce. At 730 calories, its almost half of the recommended calories per day. It's got a little bit more carbs than an omelet or Greek yogurt parfait so be warned!

Verdict: This sandwich is too big! I halved it, so it's a great sandwich to share. The flavor is also off the charts.

McDonald's - Sausage McGriddle

The first time I had a McGriddle my mind was absolutely blown. Pancakes, eggs, and sausage all in one? The McDonald's Egg McMuffin is a close second; there's a reason Mcdonald's All-day breakfast was a thing.

I always feel sluggish after enjoying a McGriddle, so I rarely order them for McDonald's breakfast.

Verdict: Original sandwich you can't mimic easily at home. For that reason, it's on the top of the list.

Hardee's / Carl's Jr. - Hand-Breaded Chicken Biscuit

I tried Hardee's first the first time about a week before I starting working on this article, and I was impressed!! My Fiancee and I decided from now on we'll make the trip to Hardees before our next road trip (even if its out of the way) to grab one of their biscuits.

Verdict: Flavorful, moist fried chicken paired with a buttery soft biscuit. Add a fried egg to complete the meal!

I am still working to add Starbucks, Taco Bell, Jack in the Box, White Castle, Panera, and Whataburger to the list. I know the Breakfast Crunchwrap, Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit, and Waffle Sandwich will change the rankings a little bit, so make sure to check back when I'm able to visit those places!