Chick-fil-A is a popular fast food restaurant chain known for its chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, and lemonade. While Chick-fil-A has a fairly extensive menu, salads are not the main focus. So a common question customers have is whether Chick-fil-A offers Caesar salad.
The short answer is yes, Chick-fil-A does have Caesar salad on the menu. However, it may not be available at every location. Chick-fil-A gives individual franchise owners leeway when it comes to modifying the standard menu. So salad offerings can vary between restaurants. But most Chick-fil-A locations do serve a Caesar salad option.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Chick-fil-A’s Caesar salad. We’ll cover what’s included, nutrition information, price, availability, and how it compares to other menu items. Whether you’re curious about trying Chick-fil-A’s take on the classic Caesar or just want the facts, read on for all the details.
What’s Included in Chick-fil-A’s Caesar Salad
Chick-fil-A’s Caesar salad features classic ingredients like chopped romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and croutons. The salad is tossed in a tangy Caesar dressing. Here is the full list of standard ingredients:
- Chopped romaine lettuce
- Shredded parmesan cheese
- Croutons
- Caesar dressing
Some Chick-fil-A locations may add extra ingredients like diced tomatoes or red onion. But the romaine, parmesan, croutons, and dressing form the core components.
The salad comes served in a bowl. It does not include grilled or crispy chicken by default. However, you can add a grilled chicken breast filet on top for an additional charge. This helps turn it into more of an entree-style salad.
Dressing
The Caesar dressing is a key part of what defines Chick-fil-A’s version. The recipe is tangy, creamy, and rich. It contains ingredients like:
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Anchovies
- Lemon juice
- Parmesan cheese
- Black pepper
The anchovies give the dressing a savory, umami taste. The garlic, lemon, and parmesan provide sharper flavors. It comes together to create a balanced, flavorful Caesar dressing.
Toppings
In terms of toppings, the parmesan cheese and croutons help add texture and crunch. The shredded parmesan has a sharp, salty flavor that works well in a Caesar salad.
The croutons are made in-house and seasoned with spices. They soak up some of the dressing and prevent the salad from feeling too soft or mushy. The croutons may be made from Chick-fil-A’s signature seasoned waffle fries.
Overall, the mix of ingredients comes together to create a filling and satisfying salad. While simple, it has the core components needed for a tasty Caesar.
Nutrition Information
Chick-fil-A Caesar salads range from 220 to 480 calories, depending on size and added protein. Here is the nutrition info for a full-size Caesar salad:
Full Size Salad Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 480 |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 36g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 980mg |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Protein | 17g |
As you can see, the full salad is high in fat at 36g. This comes mostly from the creamy Caesar dressing. The salad also contains 980mg of sodium, about 40% of the daily recommended value.
Adding a grilled chicken breast increases the protein and calories. It adds an extra 160 calories and 28g of protein.
So while tasty, the Chick-fil-A Caesar is higher in calories and fat compared to other menu salads. The Southwest and Cobb salads offer lighter options. But the Caesar still provides a good serving of protein and nutrients from the romaine lettuce.
Price
Chick-fil-A Caesar salads range in price from $4.79 for a small up to $8.59 for a full-size entree salad with grilled chicken. Here are the standard Caesar salad prices:
- Small Caesar Salad – $4.79
- Full Size Caesar Salad – $7.89
- Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad – $8.59
The small salad comes with around 220 calories. It’s a lighter option if you just want a taste. The full has around 480 calories and makes more of a meal.
Adding the grilled chicken breast increases the overall size and protein content. It turns the Caesar into more of an entree-style salad.
Prices may vary a bit by location. But expect to pay around $5 for a small and $8-9 for a larger, entree salad. Compared to other fast food chains, Chick-fil-A’s salad prices are mid-range. You’ll pay less than at a sit-down restaurant.
Dressings and Add-Ons
The base Caesar salad comes with Caesar dressing included. But you can swap or add dressings for an additional charge:
- Add extra dressing – $0.60
- Substitute dressing – $0.30
Dressing options include Zesty Apple Cider Vinaigrette, Avocado Lime Ranch, and Creamy Salsa.
You can further customize by adding mix-ins like bacon bits, chili roasted pecans, or a fruit cup for $1-2 each. Overall, Chick-fil-A gives decent flexibility to build a salad to your preferences.
Availability of the Caesar Salad
The availability of Caesar salad varies between different Chick-fil-A locations. Some restaurants serve it daily, while others may offer it on a rotating basis or not at all.
You’re most likely to find the Caesar salad at newer Chick-fil-A locations with expanded menus. The chain has been growing the variety of salad recipes in recent years. So newer stores tend to have greater salad selection.
Your best bet is to check with your local restaurant directly. You can call ahead or look on their online menu. This will let you confirm if they offer Caesar salad and its price.
If your nearest Chick-fil-A doesn’t have Caesar salad, the Southwest and Cobb are more widely available lighter options. And you can usually customize a salad with Caesar dressing even if the pre-made Caesar isn’t on the menu.
Why Availability Varies
There are a few reasons why Caesar salad availability fluctuates:
- Newer location – More salad variety
- Individual owner’s choice – Can modify menu
- Seasonal changes – Rotating options
Being a franchise model, individual restaurant owners can adapt the standard menu. Some may cut lower performing items like salads at their discretion.
Additionally, restaurants may rotate specialty salads in and out depending on the time of year. A summer Cobb salad recipe might get swapped for Caesar during the colder months.
So while most Chick-fil-A spots should offer a Caesar, your best bet is checking each location directly. But the increased focus on salads should make it easier to find in the future.
How It Compares to Other Menu Items
Chick-fil-A’s Caesar salad provides a lighter alternative to signature menu items like chicken sandwiches and waffle fries. Here’s how it compares nutritionally:
Caesar Salad vs. Chicken Sandwich
| Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 480 | 36 | 14 | 17 |
| 440 | 17 | 41 | 28 |
A chargrilled chicken sandwich contains slightly fewer calories. But the salad has significantly less fat and carbs. The sandwich does pack on more protein though.
Caesar Salad vs. Waffle Fries
| Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 480 | 36 | 14 | 17 |
| 520 | 26 | 63 | 6 |
Waffle fries have more carbs and calories in a similar portion size. The salad still comes out on top for nutrition. But the fries do make a tasty indulgent side.
When comparing menu items, the Caesar salad generally fits in as a lighter option. It provides an alternative if looking for lower calorie, higher nutrient density foods. But signature items like sandwiches and waffle fries still make hard to resist options.
Should You Try Chick-fil-A’s Caesar Salad?
Here are some key pros and cons to consider about Chick-fil-A’s take on the Caesar salad:
Pros
- Comes with classic Caesar ingredients – Romaine, parmesan, croutons
- Tangy and flavorful dressing
- Lower calorie alternative to fried foods
- Can customize with add-ons like grilled chicken
- Good nutrition from vitamin-rich romaine
Cons
- High in fat and sodium due to dressing
- Not available at all locations
- On the pricier side for a basic salad
- Some report dressing lacks depth of flavor
Overall, Chick-fil-A’s Caesar makes for a filling and tasty salad, especially with added grilled chicken. Yes, it’s high in calories and fat compared to other salads. But it’s a lighter option in the context of the overall menu.
If you happen to be dining at Chick-fil-A and want something flavorful yet healthier, it’s worth trying. Just don’t expect it to be the best Caesar salad you’ve ever had. The dressing strikes some as lacking complexity.
Given the price and calorie count, you may do just as well choosing a non-fried entree and side salad if watching nutrition. But as an occasional treat, it hits the spot for a lighter lunch or dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Chick-fil-A’s Caesar salad:
Does Chick-fil-A have Caesar dressing?
Yes, most locations offer Caesar dressing either pre-made with the Caesar salad or as an add-on dressing option. The creamy dressing contains parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, and anchovies.
Is Chick-fil-A Caesar salad healthy?
While high in fat and sodium, the Caesar salad provides a healthier alternative to fried and high carb menu items. The base of nutrient-rich romaine lettuce offers vitamins A, C, and K.
Is Chick-fil-A discontinuing Caesar salad?
There are no current plans to discontinue Caesar salad. Availability varies by location, but it remains a regular menu item at most restaurants.
Do you need Caesar dressing for a Caesar salad?
Traditionally, Caesar salad is defined by the tangy, creamy Caesar dressing. But if the dressing isn’t available, you can create a simple salad with romaine, parmesan, and croutons. It just won’t have the classic Caesar taste.
Does Chick-fil-A have anchovies in the Caesar dressing?
Yes, anchovies are one of the key ingredients in a traditional Caesar dressing. Chick-fil-A uses anchovies in their recipe to create the unique umami, savory flavor.
The Bottom Line
Chick-fil-A’s take on the classic Caesar salad offers a lighter menu choice with plenty of flavor. While not the healthiest option due to high sodium and fat, it beats out sandwiches and fries if watching calories or carbs.
Availability of Caesar salad can vary depending on location. But most restaurants offer the tangy dressing and croutons to build your own salad combination. Overall, it provides a nice break from fried fast food if that’s what you’re craving.
So next time the Chick-fil-A menu has you torn between health and taste, the Caesar salad splits the difference. Get a taste of salad greens paired with a signature zesty dressing. Just don’t expect the best Caesar you’ve ever tried. When in doubt, you can always order a chargrilled chicken sandwich and side salad for a little bit of both worlds.