Gen Z is known for forging its own path, and their latest trailblazing focus might be to shake up the classic holiday menu, including the turkey.

According to a new survey from Tyson Foods, although 75% of Gen Z respondents have prepped a Thanksgiving bird before, they are the most likely to agree that turkey is only for tradition. Holiday traditions remain top of mind for many, but more than half (54%) of Americans would prefer a protein other than turkey. When asked to choose their preferred protein, they are most likely to want chicken (59%), followed by pork/ham (49%) and then steak/beef (49%).

Regardless of wide-ranging views on the turkey, the holidays are meant to bring people together. But for many, it comes with a side of stress instead of mashed potatoes.

• 58% say cleaning for guests is stressful.
• 58% say coordinating the schedule is stressful.
• 57% say the cost of a meal is stressful.
• 56% say uncomfortable conversations are stressful.

In other words, Gen Z is seeking a simpler, more relaxed approach to the holidays that emphasizes connection rather than pressure. Nearly three-quarters (75%) of holiday celebrations include more than five guests, so it’s no wonder that easier meal solutions might be the key to a seamless gathering. Doing it all isn’t the goal anymore. Doing it easily is!

Between grocery costs, party sizes and busy schedules, more families are getting creative about the center of their holiday menu. This holiday season, 54% of Americans say they’ll be looking for ways to save. Nearly half of Americans (46%) say a whole turkey is simply too much food, and that number jumps to 63% among those trying to save money by choosing a less expensive main protein. Although turkey remains a beloved holiday staple, more people, especially younger generations, are finding that alternative proteins can deliver the same sense of celebration with less cost, waste and stress.

As younger generations lead the charge in redefining tradition, one thing is clear: the meaning of the holidays will never change; the menu just evolves. Whether it’s turkey, chicken, ham or beef, Tyson Foods is here to help make your holiday celebration simpler, tastier and more enjoyable, without sacrificing the centerpiece your family looks forward to every year.

*Data collected from an online survey of 1,002 nationally representative Americans, fielded by Savanta on behalf of Tyson Foods from Oct. 7-12, 2025.