For nine consecutive years, Chick-fil-A held the top spot on USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Awards as the best fast-food restaurant in America. Chick-fil-A is beloved for its crispy chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, and amazing customer service, but even the most dedicated fans don’t know everything about this fast-food powerhouse.
Chick-fil-A hides some surprising facts, from secret menu items to a frantically competitive franchise process. Here are 12 things the famous chicken chain doesn’t want you to know.
Yes, You Can Mix Milkshake Flavors
A Chick-fil-A milkshake fan? It doesn’t have to be one of the standard menu flavors. Even better, you can mix, say, chocolate and strawberry to make a ‘chocolate-covered strawberry,’ treat. Want to get that Oreo crumble kick? Simply ask!
Franchise Ownership Is Extremely Limited
With an incredibly low startup cost of $10,000, starting a Chick-fil-A franchise might just be your dream. There’s a catch, though: franchisees can only own one location, unlike other fast food franchises, which let you build as many stores as you can. This is right in line with Chick-fil-A’s laser-focused philosophy, but it is a big negative for investors who want to build an empire.
Becoming a Franchisee Is Nearly Impossible
Do you think you have what it takes to run a Chick-fil-A? Think again. The odds of approval are less than 1% — with more than 50,000 applicants a year and only a few new locations opening each year. In fact, becoming a Chick-fil-A owner is much harder than getting into most Ivy League schools!
Politeness Is Part of the Training
Have you ever noticed that every employee always says, “My pleasure,” not “You’re welcome”? It is no accident that this is a signature politeness. The inspiration for training Chick-fil-A employees to place courtesy highest on their list came straight from the Ritz-Carlton. That’s why Chick-fil-A year after year ranks high on customer service rankings.
The Company Will Never Go Public
If you love Chick-fil-A and want to buy stock… Bad news. S. Truett Cathy, founder of the company, made his children sign a legally binding contract that states the chain will always remain privately owned. It helps the business remain focused on its stated values instead of stock market pressures.
The Famous Chicken Recipe Is Locked in a Vault
Chick-fil-A’s legendary chicken sandwich secret? It’s literally locked away. It’s stored in a highly guarded vault at Chick-fil-A headquarters in Atlanta, like Coca-Cola’s secretive formula.
Chick-fil-A Sauce Is Surprisingly Simple
Chick fil A’s sauce is legendary, but did you know the sauce is just a blend of honey mustard, BBQ and ranch? You can actually make it in under five minutes, at home!
Secret Menu Options Exist (Kind of)
Chick‑fil‑A officially denies that they have a secret menu, but fans and employees swear by so-called underground menu hacks that will elevate your fast food experience. A chicken quesadilla, spicy chicken sliders, and even a root beer float are a few favorites you can customize. Staff might make these off-menu delights for you; all you have to do is politely ask for it.
Allergen Concerns Are Real
Proceed with caution if you have food allergies. Even though the FDA considers refined peanut oil safe for most people with peanut allergies, Chick-fil-A can’t guarantee an allergen-free meal because there’s potential for cross-contamination. So, if you have concerns, they suggest going to the doctor, particularly if you have a severe food allergy like gluten or nuts.
Every Sandwich Must Have Exactly Two Pickles
At Chick-fil-A, attention to detail isn’t a buzzword; it’s a rule. Each chicken sandwich features exactly two pickle slices. It’s been a tradition since the chain’s founding in 1964—and never has changed.
It Took Seven Years to Develop the Grilled Chicken Recipe
This brand doesn’t take creating menu items lightly. The Chick-fil-A team worked on the grilled chicken recipe for seven years. That says a lot about their commitment to flavor and quality—because bland grilled chicken is no one’s cup of tea.
They Invest in Employee Education
Chick-fil-A has awarded more than $162 million in college scholarships to its employees since 1973. From this, it is clear they are pumping money into educating and developing employees, beyond just serving chicken.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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