Today’s plant-based chicken is tender, flavorful, and finally living up to the expectations of flexitarians and food lovers alike—and Beyond Meat’s latest success is proving just how far we’ve come.

In a recent announcement on LinkedIn, Beyond Meat proudly shared that their Beyond Chicken Pieces were named #1 plant-based meat by PEOPLE Magazine in its list of the best supermarket products of 2025. The honor was determined by expert taste testers who sampled hundreds of new items on the market.

“Why? A team of expert taste testers tried hundreds of new products—and Beyond Chicken stood out for its craveable flavor, tender texture, and overall terrific taste,” said the company. “Made with simple ingredients and heart-healthy avocado oil—plus 21g of clean plant protein—it’s proof that better-for-you can taste better too. And to that we say cluck yeah! 🐔”

A Decade of Refinement

Beyond Meat is no newcomer to the chicken space. In fact, chicken was among the brand’s earliest plant-based protein concepts, predating even their now-famous burger. But the early versions—while pioneering—were a far cry from the gold standard that consumers demand today.

What sets Beyond apart is that the company never stood still. In an industry where some brands clung to early successes or niche formulations, Beyond Meat continued to iterate—quietly and consistently improving taste, texture, and nutrition to stay competitive in an increasingly crowded space.

The current Beyond Chicken Pieces reflect the outcome of that journey: a product that looks, tastes, and performs like the real thing, while also boasting a cleaner label and improved nutritional profile.

Evolving with the Consumer

What consumers wanted a decade ago is not what they demand today. The first wave of plant-based meat excitement was driven largely by ideology—animal welfare, environmental awareness, and novelty. But in 2025, the bar is much higher. Now it’s all about repeat purchases. Does it taste great? Will it cook well? Is it versatile and healthy enough to be a part of weekly meals?

Beyond Meat has answered with a resounding yes. Their updated Beyond Chicken isn’t just a meat replacement—it’s a product that invites loyalty from plant-based eaters and omnivores alike. And that’s what defines a winning product in the modern marketplace.

A Bellwether for the Future

The recognition from PEOPLE Magazine isn’t just a trophy for Beyond—it’s a signal for the entire plant-based industry. The future belongs to the brands that adapt. That means listening to customers, continuously improving, and balancing health, taste, and sustainability without compromise.

Beyond Meat’s journey in chicken is a lesson in long-game strategy. It’s about earning your place in the basket, not just getting there once.

So, here’s to the evolution of plant-based chicken. From its humble soy beginnings to #1 in the supermarket, the category has officially grown up. And companies like Beyond Meat are showing that the best is still ahead.