After kicking off the year with some retro inspired cups, frozen beverages and the iconic southern style chicken sandwich, Chick-fil-A tests two new sandwiches. These bold, trending flavors have fans traveling to get the first taste. Just how far will people go to enjoy that first bite? Or, when will these trial menu items have a larger roll out?
Periodically, Chick-fil-A unveils limited, trial food menu items. Some specialty items hit the menu and others become a distant memory.
Although many people would love a larger testing area, each item is picked for a specific reason. Like any quick service restaurant testing, everything happens with careful consideration.
For these two specialty sandwiches, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and Piedmont Triad, North Carolina. The exact reasoning for these locations is unclear. But, it is time to jump in the car and take a food road trip.
What Are the New Chick-fil-A Sandwiches?
According to Chick-fil-A, the new sandwiches are an Avocado Sriracha BLT Sandwich and Sweet Chili Lime Crunch Sandwich. Both options showcase bolder flavors than the traditional menu offerings. Even though the beloved Southern chicken sandwich brand celebrates its big 80th anniversary, the quick service restaurant needs to adapt to changing palates. Swicy and global flavors have tremendous popularity.
Available exclusively in Oklahoma City, the Avocado Sriracha BLT Sandwich is spicy, but approachable. This sandwich has two components that can be adapted to many different Chick-fil-A menu items. Depending on guests’ response, this sandwich could reappear/be re-imagined in many ways.
First, the Sriracha Swirl Toast is a game changer. The subtle heat turns the bread into a highlight, not an afterthought. This bread would be great with any chicken offering or even breakfast item.
Second, the cayenne ranch sauce is another versatile choice. The smoky heat would be great on a salad as well as a sandwich condiment. Many people would even want it with waffle fries.
Overall, this sandwich should be as successful as the pretzel pub sandwich. While the food item has bold flavor, it is not a heat scorcher. It is a smart choice to bring some diversity to the menu.
The Sweet Chili Lime Crunch Sandwich is a bigger departure for Chick-fil-A. The Piedmont Triad exclusive sandwich focuses on the topping, the Ginger Lime Cool Crunch. That ingredient is cabbage, kale and ginger lime dressing. Many people miss that classic coleslaw, but this “crunch” could be a tasty substitute for it.
Additionally, other chicken sandwiches do not offer a slaw like topping. That option ensures Chick-fil-A stands out in the crowd. Sure, the sandwich captures the “swicy” vibe with sweet chili sauce, but this sandwich is about the crunch.
When could these sandwiches see a nationwide rollout? Only time will tell. Until then, people can only dream about that first bite.
Leave a Reply