Restaurants are facing a nationwide chicken shortage. Consumer demand for the bird has surged him in the pandemic, with americans turning to comfort foods and buying more chicken sandwiches from fast food restaurants like KFC, McdonaldsRestaurants are facing a nationwide chicken shortage. Consumer demand for the bird has surged him in the pandemic, with Americans turning to comfort foods and buying more chicken sandwiches from fast food restaurants like KFC, Mcdonalds and Popeye's poultry producers say they've been unable to keep pace as millions of us sat idle during stay at home orders last year and ordered chicken meals from local restaurants. The chicken shortage also means higher prices for restaurants, which could lead to higher menu prices for customers.