fast food kids meal Erin McDowell/Business Insider

When it comes to fast-food kid’s meals, the McDonald’s Happy Meal is undeniably iconic.

However, is the smiley red box really the best kid’s meal when it comes to taste, value, and overall joy factor?

I tried kid’s meals from McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, Burger King, and Wendy’s to determine which one was best — to the point where even a fully-grown adult might want to order it.

While McDonald’s put up a valiant fight, Chick-fil-A won out with its large portions, fluffy yet crispy waffle fries, and signature nuggets.

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The last time I ordered a kid’s meal was at least 14 years ago.

So, when I set out on a mission to order four kid’s meals from major fast-food chains and determine which one was best, I didn’t exactly know what to expect. What I found surprised me — and may have convinced me to keep ordering kid’s meals as an adult.

While no other chain made me happier upon my purchase than McDonald’s did with its grinning red box, I had to admit that what was inside was far less enticing.

Chick-fil-A came out on top with its fluffy fries and signature nuggets. The portion size was generous, and truly could be enough food for an adult. Chick-fil-A was also the only chain that offered mac and cheese as an upgraded side option.

Burger King disappointed with a basic kid’s menu and a lack of healthy side options included in my order. The chicken nuggets tasted like sawdust and the fries were practically flavorless.

As for the toys I received with each meal, McDonald’s did have the upper hand with its „motorized“ Frozen toy. I also enjoyed the Burger King Emoji stuffed animal.

Here’s a breakdown of every fast-food kid’s chicken nugget meal that I tried, and how they ranked from worst to best. I found that the value of the meal was a very important factor for me in my ranking, just as it is for fast-food eaters everywhere.

I compared kid’s meals from major fast-food chains and found Chick-fil-A and Wendy’s easily defeated McDonald’s iconic Happy Meal

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