We went to taste test the new Seaside Chicken Strips at Columbia Harbour House in Magic Kingdom, a flavorful mix of pretzel-crusted crunch, zesty aioli, and crispy garlic that debuted October 8 as part of Walt Disney World’s new saucy chicken strips lineup
There is no doubt that chicken strips (or tenders) have become even more popular in recent years. A dish generally thought of as a kid’s or a picky eater’s dining choice has become very mainstream. The increasing popularity of places like Raising Cane’s and PDQ shows how people love the comfort of sauce and chicken strips.
Of course, Walt Disney World already has plenty of places to buy chicken strips. Despite that, recently, Walt Disney World announced 13 sauced chicken strips coming to the theme park resort starting on October 8. Several of these new options resemble and sound like basic potential upgrades to previous chicken strips served at Walt Disney World. However, the Seaside Chicken Strips at Columbia Harbour House inside Magic Kingdom. Thus, we needed to give them a try.
The latest addition to Magic Kingdom’s Columbia Harbour House menu is making waves. The Seaside Chicken Strips are joining Walt Disney World’s lineup of 13 new saucy chicken strip creations, and this nautical-inspired flavor is already catching attention. Described by Disney Parks Blog as the dish that will “make you feel like you’re sitting waterside with that sea breeze with each bite,” these aren’t your average theme park tenders. Columbia Harbour House, already known for its seafaring setting and fan-favorite seafood options, is the perfect home port for this fresh take on a classic comfort food.
What Makes the Seaside Chicken Strips Special
The Seaside Chicken Strips are tossed in a savory seasoned aioli, topped with crushed pretzels, and sprinkled with crispy garlic. That menu description promises a satisfying blend of crunch and flavor. The pretzel coating adds a touch of saltiness and texture, while the aioli gives a creamy, tangy balance that ties the whole dish together.
It’s an elevated spin on a familiar favorite, perfectly suited for Columbia Harbour House’s coastal theming. While traditional chicken strips are a Disney quick-service staple, this version leans into bold flavor and texture. This makes an ideal pick for parkgoers looking to try something new without straying too far from comfort food territory.
Setting Sail at Columbia Harbour House
For many Magic Kingdom fans, Columbia Harbour House is a go-to dining destination in Liberty Square. With its nautical décor, upstairs seating, and consistently hearty menu, it’s a peaceful spot to relax between attractions. The addition of the Seaside Chicken Strips feels like a natural fit. This pairs the restaurant’s New England charm with Walt Disney World’s current wave of flavor-forward menu enhancements.
Themed to “the sea breeze in every bite,” the Seaside Chicken Strips seem designed to complement other menu favorites like the Lobster Roll or Grilled Shrimp Skewer. Still, with the full rollout of saucy chicken options happening across Walt Disney World, fans can look forward to a fun food tour sampling each park’s unique take.
Seaside Chicken Strips Review: Flavor with a Crunch?
The chicken strips at their core are standard Walt Disney World chicken strips. They are not fabulous, but also not bad either. A standard order of chicken strips costs $10.99. The Seaside Chicken Strips cost $12.99. So, these new chicken strips involve a $2 upcharge for an elevated entree, like the Jerk BBQ Chicken Strips. Still, our food reporters thought the Seaside Chicken Strips were well worth the increased price.
The key element, the aioli, explains the higher price. The aioli provides a creamy texture and the right amount of flavor for the Seaside Chicken Strips. It pulls everything together, enhancing the standard Walt Disney World chicken strips. The aioli reflects the influence of Old Bay Seasoning, a classic seafood seasoning. Additionally, guests can request extra sauce. During our visit, we failed to need the extra sauce.
The crushed pretzels add a satisfying crunch with a slight salty kick. These help balance with the aioli. The new chicken strips taste best when you get all the elements in one bite, including some of the green onions. These components elevate the chicken strips into something better.
Guests receive four reasonably sized chicken strips with the toppings. They also come with a side order of standard Walt Disney World fries. Still, for $12.98, this makes a filling quick-service meal.
Final Thoughts
With the debut of the Seaside Chicken Strips, Walt Disney World proves once again that it can even be the simplest theme park staple. Even the chicken strip can be reimagined with creativity and care. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch or seeking a savory snack between attractions, this new menu addition offers something both familiar and exciting.
Anchored by flavor and themed to its setting, the Seaside Chicken Strips are poised to become a new fan favorite at Magic Kingdom. So, next time you’re in Liberty Square, be “shore” to drop anchor at Columbia Harbour House and let your taste buds set sail.
For more theme park dining reviews, visit MSM News every weekday at noon Eastern Time. As always, eat like you mean it!
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