Chick-fil-A isn’t just about chicken sandwiches anymore. In recent years, its salad lineup has earned a devoted following from fast‑food lovers who crave both flavor and a healthier alternative to traditional fried options. Whether you’re a dedicated salad fan or looking for a lighter choice when dining on the go, this guide will take you through everything you need to know about Chick-fil-A salads—from menu offerings and nutritional breakdowns to customization tips. Read on to discover why these salads have become a must‑try, and how to get the best out of your Chick‑Fil‑A experience!
Chick‑Fil‑A Salads Menu

Market Salad

The Market Salad is a standout for many reasons. It’s designed to be both visually appealing and nutritionally balanced:
- Ingredients:
A fresh bed of mixed greens forms the base, which is topped with a medley of fruits such as red and green apples, strawberries, and blueberries. For protein, you can choose from a variety of options including grilled chicken (available warm or cold), spicy grilled filet, chicken nuggets, or even opt for no chicken at all. Some versions even include a scoop of blue cheese, giving the salad a distinctive tang. - Unique Toppings:
What sets the Market Salad apart is the addition of Harvest Nut Granola and Roasted Almonds. These toppings add a delightful crunch while contributing to your daily healthy fats. - Dressing Options:
The salad pairs beautifully with the Zesty Apple Cider Vinaigrette, although other dressings like Avocado Lime Ranch can also enhance the overall flavor.
This salad is perfect if you’re looking for a refreshing blend of sweet and savory ingredients. The mix of fruits not only provides natural sweetness but also vitamins and antioxidants that support overall health.
Cobb Salad

The Cobb Salad is another crowd‑pleaser that offers a robust combination of flavors and textures:
- Ingredients:
Traditionally, the Cobb Salad includes mixed greens, roasted corn kernels, a blend of shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses, crispy bacon, sliced hard‑boiled egg, and grape tomatoes. The protein component can be customized by choosing from options like chicken nuggets, grilled chicken, spicy filet, or even chick‑n‑strips. - Signature Toppings:
A distinctive element is the inclusion of crispy red bell peppers which add both color and a subtle crunch. - Dressing Pairing:
The salad is typically served with Avocado Lime Ranch dressing, a creamy yet tangy choice that ties all the components together. For those watching their calorie intake, it’s recommended to ask for the dressing on the side.
This salad is ideal if you’re after a filling, protein‑rich meal that still incorporates the freshness of greens and vegetables. It’s a great option for those seeking a hearty meal without going overboard on calories.
Spicy Southwest Salad

For those who like a bit of spice and a burst of flavor, the Spicy Southwest Salad is a must‑try:
- Ingredients:
This salad features a base of mixed greens topped with grape tomatoes and a blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses. It’s enhanced with a zesty mix of roasted corn, black beans, poblano chiles, and red bell peppers. The star ingredient here is the sliced grilled spicy chicken breast (available in a variety of styles such as spicy grilled filet or nuggets). - Crispy Accents:
It comes with Seasoned Tortilla Strips and Chili Lime Pepitas, which add both texture and a spicy kick. - Dressing Choice:
The salad is typically served with Creamy Salsa dressing, although many fans prefer substituting it with Avocado Lime Ranch for an extra creamy, tangy twist.
If you crave bold flavors and aren’t afraid of a little heat, the Spicy Southwest Salad is a fantastic choice. Its combination of spicy chicken and crisp vegetables offers a satisfying crunch and a well‑balanced meal.
Additional Salad Options

Beyond these flagship salads, Chick‑Fil‑A also offers Side Salad—a simple option featuring mixed greens topped with shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses and grape tomatoes. It’s a great low‑calorie side for those who want to add a bit of green to their meal.
Each salad offers a unique spin on healthy fast food, ensuring that there’s an option no matter what your taste or nutritional needs might be.
Chick‑Fil‑A Salads Nutritions and Calories
For many diners, nutritional information is a top priority. Chick-fil-A is transparent with its nutrition details, ensuring that you know exactly what you’re getting with each salad option. Here’s a closer look at the key nutrients in Chick‑fil‑A Salads:
Menu Items | Calories | Fat (g) | Carb (g) | Protein (g) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Cobb Salad | ||||
Cobb Salad w/ Nuggets | 830 | 60g | 31g | 42g |
Cobb Salad w/ Spicy Grilled Filet (Cold) | 690 | 51g | 23g | 34g |
Cobb Salad w/ Grilled Nuggets | 710 | 52g | 22g | 40g |
Cobb Salad w/ Chick-fil-A Chick-n-Strips® | 890 | 63g | 37g | 44g |
Cobb Salad w/ Grilled Filet (Cold) | 690 | 50g | 22g | 36g |
Cobb Salad w/ Chick-fil-A® Filet | 830 | 60g | 33g | 19g |
Cobb Salad w/ Spicy Filet | 860 | 62g | 37g | 38g |
Cobb Salad w/ Grilled Filet (Warm) | 690 | 50g | 22g | 36g |
Cobb Salad w/ No Chicken | 580 | 49g | 21g | 15g |
Spicy Southwest Salad | ||||
Spicy Southwest Salad w/ Spicy Grilled Filet (Cold) | 680 | 49 | 27 | 33 |
Spicy Southwest Salad w/ Grilled Filet (Cold) | 680 | 48 | 26 | 35 |
Spicy Southwest Salad w/ Nuggets | 830 | 58 | 36 | 40 |
Spicy Southwest Salad w/ Grilled Nuggets | 700 | 49 | 26 | 39 |
Spicy Southwest Salad w/ Chick-fil-A Chick-n- Strips™ | 880 | 60 | 41 | 43 |
Spicy Southwest Salad w/ Chick-fil-A® Filet | 830 | 58 | 37 | 38 |
Spicy Southwest Salad w/ Spicy Filet | 850 | 60 | 41 | 37 |
Spicy Southwest Salad w/ Grilled Filet (Warm) | 680 | 48 | 26 | 35 |
Spicy Southwest Salad w/ No Chicken | 570 | 47 | 25 | 14 |
Market Salad | ||||
Market Salad w/ Grilled Filet (Cold) | 550 | 31 | 42 | 28 |
Market Salad w/ Spicy Grilled Filet (Cold) | 540 | 31 | 42 | 26 |
Market Salad w/ Chick-fil-A Chick-n-Strips™ | 750 | 43 | 57 | 36 |
Market Salad w/ Nuggets | 690 | 40 | 51 | 34 |
Market Salad w/ Grilled Nuggets | 570 | 32 | 41 | 32 |
Market Salad w/ Chick-fil-A® Filet | 690 | 41 | 53 | 31 |
Market Salad w/ Spicy Filet | 720 | 42 | 56 | 30 |
Market Salad w/ Grilled Filet (Warm) | 550 | 31 | 42 | 28 |
Market Salad w/ No Chicken | 440 | 29 | 40 | 7 |
Customization Options and Tips for a Healthier Order
One of the best aspects of Chick-fil-A salads is how customizable they are. Here are some expert tips to maximize both taste and nutritional value:
Ask for Dressing on the Side
A major source of extra calories in salads comes from dressings. By asking for your dressing on the side, you can:
- Control Portion Size: Use only as much as you need to coat your salad.
- Reduce Calories: Lighter dressings like the Light Balsamic Vinaigrette (about 80 calories per serving) can be used sparingly compared to creamier dressings.
- Experiment: Try mixing a small amount of your favorite creamy dressing with a vinaigrette for a balanced flavor profile.
Choose Lean Protein Options
Opt for grilled proteins over fried ones whenever possible:
- Grilled Chicken Filet: This option is lower in fat while still delivering high-quality protein.
- Grilled Nuggets: These are a healthier alternative to their fried versions.
- Skip or Customize: If you’re not in the mood for meat, you can order your salad “no chicken” for a lighter meal that still offers plenty of flavor from fresh vegetables and fruits.
Load Up on Vegetables
Adding extra veggies can boost the nutritional value of your salad:
- Extra Greens: Ask for a double portion of mixed greens to increase fiber intake.
- Add Toppings: Request extra tomatoes, cucumbers, or shredded carrots for additional crunch and vitamins.
Swap Toppings
Consider swapping or adding toppings based on your nutritional goals:
- Fruit Alternatives: The Market Salad’s mix of apples, strawberries, and blueberries not only adds natural sweetness but also antioxidants.
- Nuts and Granola: These add healthy fats and fiber, but if you’re watching your calorie intake, you can ask for a smaller portion or skip them.
- Cheese Options: If you love cheese but want to reduce saturated fat, ask for a lighter cheese option or even request it on the side.
Drink Smart
Pair your salad with healthier drink choices:
- Water: Always a great option to keep you hydrated without extra calories.
- Unsweetened Iced Tea: Chick-fil-A offers both sweet and unsweetened iced tea—opt for the unsweetened version to avoid extra sugar.
- Sunjoy (Half Tea, Half Lemonade): If you crave a little sweetness, this classic beverage is a better choice than a full‑calorie soda or milkshake.
By following these customization tips, you can tailor your Chick-fil-A salad to better meet your health goals while still enjoying a delicious, satisfying meal.
How to Make Your Chick‑Fil‑A Salad at Home
While many enjoy the convenience of ordering Chick-fil-A salads, you might sometimes want to recreate the salad at home. Here are a few ideas to elevate your homemade version:
Market Salad
Ingredients:
- Mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine, or a blend)
- Sliced apples (red and green for variety)
- Fresh strawberries and blueberries
- Grilled chicken breast (or your choice of protein)
- Crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- Harvest nut granola and roasted almonds (for crunch)
- A homemade apple cider vinaigrette (mix apple cider vinegar, olive oil, a bit of honey, salt, and pepper)
Steps:
- Prepare the Base:
Wash and dry your mixed greens thoroughly. Place them in a large bowl. - Add Fruits:
Core and thinly slice the apples. Rinse the berries and add them to the greens. - Protein Power:
Grill a chicken breast seasoned lightly with salt and pepper. Slice into strips and lay over the salad. - Crunch Factor:
Sprinkle a small amount of granola and roasted almonds over the top. - Dress to Impress:
Drizzle your homemade apple cider vinaigrette on the salad, toss gently, and enjoy immediately.
Cobb Salad
Ingredients:
- Mixed greens as your base
- Grilled or crispy chicken (choose your favorite style)
- Hard‑boiled eggs, sliced
- Crumbled bacon
- Sliced grape tomatoes
- A blend of shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses
- Optional: Crispy red bell peppers
- Avocado lime ranch dressing (store‑bought or homemade)
Steps:
- Layer Your Ingredients:
Start with a bed of mixed greens in a large bowl. - Protein and Veggies:
Arrange slices of grilled chicken, egg slices, and bacon crumbles over the greens. - Cheese and Tomatoes:
Sprinkle a blend of cheeses and add grape tomatoes evenly across the salad. - Finishing Touch:
Top with crispy red bell peppers if desired, then drizzle with avocado lime ranch dressing. - Mix and Serve:
Toss gently and serve with a side of extra dressing if needed.
Spicy Southwest Salad
Ingredients:
- Mixed greens
- Sliced grape tomatoes
- A mix of shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese
- Roasted corn kernels, black beans, and diced red bell peppers
- Grilled spicy chicken breast (or your preferred spicy protein)
- Seasoned tortilla strips and chili lime pepitas
- Creamy salsa dressing (or substitute with avocado lime ranch)
Steps:
- Build the Base:
Place a generous serving of mixed greens into your salad bowl. - Vegetable Medley:
Add grape tomatoes, corn kernels, black beans, and red bell peppers. - Protein Punch:
Grill a spicy chicken breast until cooked through and slice it thinly. Lay the pieces over the salad. - Crunch and Texture:
Top with seasoned tortilla strips and sprinkle chili lime pepitas for an extra zing. - Dress It Up:
Drizzle with your dressing of choice—experiment with combining the creamy salsa with a bit of avocado lime ranch. - Toss and Enjoy:
Give your salad a gentle toss to combine all flavors before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Chick‑Fil‑A salads healthy?
Yes, Chick‑Fil‑A salads can be healthy if you choose the right options.
Can I customize my salad order?
Absolutely. You can choose your protein (grilled, spicy, nuggets, or none), ask for dressing on the side, and even add extra vegetables or fruits.
What is the best dressing to choose for a lower‑calorie salad?
For a lower‑calorie option, consider dressings like the Light Balsamic Vinaigrette (about 80 calories per serving) or Fat‑Free Honey Mustard Dressing (around 90 calories).
Can I order a salad without chicken?
Yes, Chick‑Fil‑A allows you to order your salad “no chicken” if you prefer a vegetarian option or want to reduce the protein load.
Are the salad ingredients fresh?
Chick‑Fil‑A prides itself on preparing salads fresh daily.
Conclusion
As you plan your next meal, consider stepping away from the traditional fried offerings and giving one of these salads a try. With the flexibility to tailor it to your tastes and nutritional needs, Chick‑Fil‑A salads prove that fast‑food can be both delicious and wholesome. From a busy workday lunch to a light dinner option, these salads have something for everyone.