Greggs' New Chicken Sausage Roll: A Smoky Surprise or a Flaky Flop?
Greggs has left its loyal customers in a state of bewilderment this week with the introduction of a bold new menu item: the chicken sausage roll. The launch has ignited a fierce debate among fans, with some branding it an 'abomination' while others have welcomed the innovative flavour. The Mirror's Niamh Kirk took on the challenge of sampling this controversial creation to deliver her definitive verdict.
A Risk Worth Taking?
The age-old adage 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' often holds true, but Greggs is clearly willing to defy convention with its latest offering. The bakery chain's sausage rolls are a quintessential lunchtime staple for Britons nationwide, so it's little surprise that the announcement of the chicken roll triggered a wave of mixed reactions. Priced identically at £1.35, the same as the classic pork sausage roll, this newcomer completes what the company describes as 'a trilogy of flavours', joining the original and vegan versions as a permanent fixture on the menu.
Is this new addition a stroke of culinary genius or a total flop? We embarked on a mission to find out. After the chicken roll officially hit shelves this week, we visited a local Greggs outlet to put it to the test.
First Impressions and Clever Distinctions
At first glance, the chicken roll appears almost indistinguishable from its pork counterpart. However, upon closer inspection, a subtle difference emerges: the pastry features a straight line pattern, whereas the pork version has slanted lines. This clever design choice helps prevent any potential mix-ups in-store, ensuring customers get exactly what they order.
The new roll consists of seasoned minced chicken enveloped in the signature layers of golden puff pastry that Greggs fans know and love. The company emphasises that this is not intended to replace the original but rather to serve as an 'up and coming co-star'. As a die-hard sausage roll enthusiast, initial scepticism was natural, but the appeal of a chicken-based option as a potentially healthier alternative was undeniable. It also offers an inclusive choice for those who avoid pork, allowing them to partake in the Greggs experience.
The Taste Test: A Smoky Revelation
The first bite delivers a surprisingly smoky flavour, reminiscent of something you might find at a traditional chippy or kebab shop. As the tasting progressed, the flavour grew increasingly delicious. The texture mirrors that of the pork sausage roll perfectly, coupled with the same crispy and flaky pastry that many consider the highlight of the treat. It is well-seasoned, with an excellent meat-to-pastry ratio that satisfies without overwhelming.
While it is certainly worth a try, the chicken roll does not quite dethrone the classic original. It lacks the fatty richness that makes the pork version a go-to comfort food, especially on a hangover. That said, the pastry on the chicken variant is less greasy, resulting in a crispier bite—a definite bonus for some, though it carries a slight risk of dryness.
Nutritional Considerations and Final Verdict
For those who are protein-conscious, the chicken roll offers a marginally better option, though it contains only 33 fewer calories than the pork version. Ultimately, this new menu item stands as a tasty and innovative alternative that broadens Greggs' appeal without compromising the beloved classic. Whether it becomes a fan favourite or remains a niche choice, it undoubtedly adds an exciting twist to the bakery's iconic lineup.
