Chick-Fil-A’s spicy chicken sandwich has developed a reputation for bringing the heat. With a spicy fried chicken fillet and pepper jack cheese, the sandwich promises to deliver a kick of flavor. But does it live up to the hype? Is Chick-Fil-A’s spicy chicken sandwich truly spicy or just mildly seasoned?
To find out, we ordered the spicy chicken sandwich and conducted a thorough taste test. We evaluated the level of spice, flavor profile, and overall enjoyment of this popular menu item. Read on for a detailed review and analysis of the Chick-Fil-A spicy chicken sandwich experience.
Ingredients in the Spicy Chicken Sandwich
Before evaluating the spice level, let’s examine what goes into Chick-Fil-A’s signature spicy fried chicken sandwich:
– Fried chicken breast fillet marinated in cayenne pepper sauce
– Pepper jack cheese
– Pickles
– Spicy dressing
– Brioche bun
The marinade and pepper jack cheese seem poised to deliver some heat. The pepper jack cheese in particular adds a spicy kick compared to regular cheddar or American cheese.
On paper, thesecomponents promise to bring at least mild spice – but just how intense is the burn? Let’s break it down element by element.
Heat Level of the Chicken
The star of the show is undoubtedly the fried chicken breast. Chick-Fil-A marinates the chicken fillet in a cayenne pepper sauce to give it some zing. However, upon tasting the chicken, the cayenne pepper doesn’t make it remarkably hot. The heat is relatively mild.
Compared to a boneless chicken wing coated in hot Buffalo sauce, or a Nashville hot chicken sandwich from other restaurants, Chick-Fil-A’s spicy filet has only a gentle spice. The predominant flavor is the crispy, juicy fried chicken rather than the cayenne pepper marinade.
If you aren’t accustomed to spicy food, the chicken may have more kick than expected. For true spice lovers though, the heat level is not likely to overwhelm.
Impact of the Pepper Jack Cheese
In addition to the marinated chicken fillet, the spicy sandwich comes with a slice of pepper jack cheese. Pepper jack is known for having actual jalapeño peppers mixed in with the cheese.
Again though, the pepper jack cheese on Chick-Fil-A’s sandwich is mild. You get a bit of cheesy flavor with only subtle hints of spice. It doesn’t meaningfully increase the heat level beyond the chicken itself.
For those who enjoy just a touch of heat, the pepper jack contributes pleasant flavor. It doesn’t have significant spiciness that will leave you reaching for water.
Spicy Dressing
The spicy chicken sandwich comes with Chick-Fil-A’s signature spicy dressing as well. Their website describes it as a southern style Creole mustard sauce with a smoky twist.
Upon tasting the sauce, it has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor profile. There are traces of mustard and smoke as described, but very little heat. Like the chicken and cheese, the spicy dressing adds depth of flavor without much increase in spice level.
Some may detect a mild peppery kick, but it won’t douse your taste buds with intense heat. For those who find the chicken and cheese completely mild, the sauce likewise won’t overwhelm.
The Pickles and Bun
In addition to the core chicken, cheese, and sauce, the sandwich comes with the classic accompaniment of pickles and is served on a toasted brioche bun. Neither of these elements contributes any spiciness to the overall experience.
The pickles offer a cool, crunchy contrast to the chicken and cheese. The soft, sweet brioche bun likewise does not amp up the heat but provides a solid foundation.
As supporting players, the pickles and bun allow the other sandwich fillings to take center stage. They complement without intensifying or reducing the mild levels of spice.
Heat Level – Mild but Buildable
Based on careful tasting of each component, Chick-Fil-A’s spicy chicken sandwich lives up to its name, but only with mild spice. For those with low heat tolerance, the sandwich may have a noticeable kick. For true spice enthusiasts, the heat level is low.
Here is a heat ranking on a scale of 1 to 10:
– Chicken fillet – 3/10
– Pepper jack cheese – 2/10
– Spicy dressing – 2/10
The ingredients align to deliver a gentle warmth without intense, eye-watering spice. Each element builds on the last to offer flame-broiled flavor that is approachable for most palates.
While the sandwich as-is lacks assertive spiciness, there are hacks to give it more heat:
– Add extra packets of the spicy dressing
– Request extra spicy seasoning on the chicken
– Top with pickled jalapeños from the condiment station
– Use a different hot sauce or chili oil
These customizations can easily amplify the heat level for those seeking a fiery kick. Chick-Fil-A’s kitchen staff is happy to oblige requests to go hotter with the spicy chicken sandwich.
Taste Profile Beyond Heat
Mild spice aside, how does Chick-Fil-A’s spicy chicken sandwich taste? Here is a full overview:
– The chicken is juicy, crispy, and well-seasoned. You get moist chicken flavor with a coating of crunchy breading.
– The pepper jack cheese adds creamy texture and a nice salty balance.
– The tangy spicy dressing has a pleasant sweetness and smokiness.
– The pickles offer a vinegary crunch and contrast.
– The soft toasted bun brings it all together.
While not intensely hot, the flavors mesh wonderfully. The ingredients complement each other for a delicious, well-executed sandwich.
For optimal freshness and structural integrity, the sandwich is best consumed immediately after ordering. The crispy chicken and bun don’t hold up as well over time. Within the first few minutes, you’ll get the ideal texture.
Who Should Order the Spicy Chicken Sandwich
Given the mild spice level, Chick-Fil-A’s spicy chicken sandwich is a crowd-pleaser. Here are some diners who may enjoy it:
– Customers who want just a touch of heat – enough to notice but not overwhelm. The sandwich satisfies a craving for mild spice.
– Children and others with lower heat tolerance. For them, the sandwich may be the upper limit of their comfort zone.
– Patrons who favor flavor over sheer intensity of spice. The sandwich has nuanced flavors though not extreme heat.
– Chick-Fil-A loyalists. It provides a variation from the classic sandwich with an added twist.
For extreme spice junkies, the sandwich may not satisfy. But for all levels below that threshold, it delivers an appealing combo of crisp chicken, cheese, and gentle heat.
How Customers Can Cool Down the Sandwich
If the mild spice is still too much, customers have options to cool down the sandwich to their taste:
– Hold the pepper jack cheese and request regular cheese like cheddar or American. This removes a layer of heat.
– Ask for no spicy dressing or sauce. The plain chicken will have even less zing.
– Opt for extra pickles. The cooling vinegar and crunch of the pickles balances the spice.
– Add ranch dressing or another creamy, cooling condiment from the topping station.
– Wash it down with plenty of a cold beverage like fruit punch or a milkshake.
Tweaking the toppings and condiments allows customers to customize the sandwich to their personal heat preferences. Chick-Fil-A is glad to modify the spicy chicken sandwich to individual tastes.
Nutrition Info
How does the spicy chicken sandwich measure up in terms of nutrition? Here are key stats:
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| 440 | 19g | 41g | 28g |
The sandwich packs a hefty serving of protein along with considerable calories and fat. As a fried chicken item, nutrition is not the main appeal.
Those monitoring fat and calories may prefer ordering the grilled version of the spicy chicken sandwich. It cuts down on the deep-fried aspect while retaining the spicy marinade and pepper jack cheese.
If the classic fried option is your pick, enjoying the sandwich in moderation is key. While not the healthiest menu choice, an occasional indulgence hits the spot. Splitting the sandwich makes for a more modest serving.
Price
Chick-Fil-A prices vary regionally but expect to pay $4.79 – $5.59 for the spicy chicken sandwich, which qualifies as a premium menu item.
That’s more expensive than the original Chick-Fil-A chicken sandwich but on par with other chicken chains’ spicy sandwiches. Given the generous portion, high-quality ingredients, and signature taste, most find it worth the price.
Conclusion
Chick-Fil-A’s spicy chicken sandwich earns its name but not to an extreme level. The combination of a marinated fried chicken fillet, pepper jack cheese, spicy dressing, pickles, and a toasted bun delivers more flavor than overt heat.
While not intensely hot, the sandwich satisfies cravings for a touch of spice with the chain’s hallmark chicken flavor. Customizing with extra spicy toppings can add more fire for those so inclined.
Overall, Chick-Fil-A’s spicy chicken sandwich makes a winning pick for those seeking a little warmth without intense burn. As a limited-time seasonal item, be sure to get it while you can!
The Key Points
– The chicken, cheese, and sauce provide mild spice that builds on each element.
– For extreme heat lovers, the sandwich may disappoint. For most palates, the gentle spice pleases.
– The ingredients blend wonderfully for full flavor beyond just heat.
– Customizations like extra sauce or hot peppers can amp up the temperature.
– At around 500 calories, it’s a filling occasional indulgence best enjoyed in moderation.
So don’t fear the spicy chicken sandwich if you can handle moderate heat! Chick-Fil-A’s signature spicy sandwich satisfies with its clever blend of flavors and comfortable spice level. Just have plenty of napkins and a cold drink ready if your taste buds need relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hot is Chick-Fil-A’s spicy chicken sandwich?
The heat level is mild, around 3/10. The chicken, cheese, and sauce add gentle warmth without intense spice. It satisfies cravings for a touch of heat without overwhelming the palate.
What are the spicy ingredients in the sandwich?
A fried chicken breast marinated in cayenne pepper sauce, pepper jack cheese made with jalapeños, and a Creole mustard spicy dressing contribute mild spice.
Can you order the sandwich spicier?
Yes, customizations like extra spicy dressing or sliced jalapeños can add more heat. Let the staff know if you desire an extra spicy kick.
Is it too spicy for kids?
The mild spice level makes it generally safe for children accustomed to some heat. Parents can request no spicy sauce or cheese to cool it down further.
How long is the spicy chicken sandwich available?
As a seasonal menu item, the spicy sandwich is only available for a limited time. Check with your local Chick-Fil-A for exact dates of availability.