Introduction

As a food menu owner, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about how to build the perfect plate—one that’s not only satisfying but thoughtfully balanced. And let me tell you, it’s not just about the star of the show. Sides matter. A lot.

When it comes to fast food chains that get this right, Chick-Fil-A menu​ with prices 2025 stands out. Their sides aren’t filler—they’re flavor-forward additions that actually complement the main entrée. Whether you’re craving something crisp, refreshing, hearty, or just a little indulgent, Chick-fil-A’s sides bring that extra dimension to the meal.

In my own experience curating menus, I’ve seen how the right sides can boost customer satisfaction, increase check averages, and even become crave-worthy staples on their own. Chick-fil-A clearly gets that. So, let’s dive into their sides menu and explore what makes these options worth more than just a second look.

Chick-fil-A Sides Menu:

As someone who’s built menus from the ground up, I can say that variety is key—but so is intention. Chick-fil-A strikes a solid balance here. Their sides aren't just tossed in to check a box. Each one serves a distinct purpose, hitting a different flavor note or dietary preference.

Here’s the current sides lineup:

• Waffle Potato Fries

• Side Salad

• Kale Crunch Side

• Pimento Cheese Side

From my perspective, that’s a concise yet strategic range. You've got comfort, freshness, nutrition, and a nod to regional flair. Let’s take a closer look at each.

Waffle Potato Fries

This is the gold standard—and not just for Chick-fil-A. As a menu operator, I know how hard it is to create a fry that becomes part of your brand identity. Chick-fil-A nailed it.

Their Waffle Potato Fries are more than just a side—they’re a customer magnet. Crispy, well-seasoned, and iconic in shape, they work beautifully with any sauce. That’s a detail I always consider when designing menus—how well an item plays with condiments matters more than you’d think.

Plus, they’re vegetarian and gluten-free, which widens their appeal. If I had to pick one side that carries the most “can’t-go-wrong” energy, this would be it.

Side Salad

Now, I’ve seen my fair share of sad, uninspired side salads in the food industry. Chick-fil-A’s Side Salad isn’t one of them.

It’s clear they’ve put effort into making it feel like a real part of the meal, not an afterthought. With fresh greens, shredded cheeses, grape tomatoes, and a crispy topping of bell peppers, it’s vibrant and balanced. Pair it with a bold dressing like Avocado Lime Ranch, and it doesn’t feel like you're sacrificing flavor for health.

As a menu owner, I appreciate this kind of execution. It’s what makes a guest feel like every part of their meal has been considered.

Kale Crunch Side

This is the kind of side I wish more chains would embrace.

The Kale Crunch Side is proof that fast food can cater to health-conscious diners without compromising taste. The kale-cabbage blend is sturdy and satisfying, and the apple cider-Dijon vinaigrette brings a welcome brightness. Those roasted almonds? A smart texture move. In menu development, those little contrasting elements are what elevate a dish from basic to memorable.

This side is a standout for vegan and gluten-free eaters, but even meat lovers will enjoy it. It’s light but not boring—exactly what a refreshing side should be.

Pimento Cheese Side

Ah, the wildcard—and one I fully support as a fellow menu curator.

The Pimento Cheese Side adds regional flair and personality. It’s rich, creamy, and full of Southern charm. This isn’t a mass-market, play-it-safe item—it’s bold, and that’s why it works. I admire Chick-fil-A for leaning into something that might not appeal to everyone, but will deeply satisfy the right guests.

From a food menu owner's lens, this kind of side helps differentiate a brand. It's not there to be everything to everyone—it's there to be a favorite for someone.

What are the most popular sides on Chick-fil-A’s menu?

Based on both customer trends and my own observations in the industry, some clear favorites have emerged.

The Waffle Potato Fries are hands-down the top performer. Their craveability is off the charts. Every menu has that one item that people come back for again and again—this is Chick-fil-A’s.

The Kale Crunch Side is catching steam, especially among guests looking for clean ingredients and lower-calorie options. It’s a refreshing contrast to heavier entrées.

And while the Side Salad doesn’t always get the spotlight, it’s a consistent choice for guests who like balance in their meal. I’ve found in my own menu testing that a good salad can outperform expectations when it’s well-executed—which this one is.

What is the best way to reheat Chick-fil-A sides?

Reheating is something many of us overlook in menu development—but customers definitely notice. Here’s how I’d recommend reheating Chick-fil-A sides based on what’s worked in my own food business:

Waffle Potato Fries:
Microwaves are the enemy of crispiness. Instead, use an air fryer at 375°F for 3–5 minutes or an oven at 400°F for 8–10 minutes. That brings back the crunch without drying them out.

Side Salad & Kale Crunch Side:
Don’t heat these. Just store them in the fridge with the dressing on the side. When you're ready, toss and eat. That keeps the texture crisp and the flavors fresh.

Pimento Cheese Side:
You’ve got options here. Some people enjoy it cold, but if you want it warm and gooey, microwave in 10-second intervals until smooth. Stir as you go to avoid separation. This side’s great as a dip or spread, even when reheated.

FAQs - Chick-fil-A Sides Menu

Q: Are any Chick-fil-A sides gluten-free?
Yes—Waffle Fries and Kale Crunch Side are both gluten-free. As always, I’d advise checking with your local restaurant for allergen safety due to possible cross-contact.

Q: Does Chick-fil-A offer Mac & Cheese as a side?
They sure do. And as a food menu owner, I can say it’s one of the most indulgent, comfort-forward items you’ll find in a fast food setting. Baked and made with a blend of cheeses, it’s rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying.

Q: Can I swap out sides in a combo meal?
Absolutely. Most combo meals allow substitutions, so if fries aren’t your vibe that day, you can switch to a salad, kale, or even mac.

Q: Are Chick-fil-A sides served all day?
Yes, sides are available during all regular business hours. That means you can customize your meal at any time of day.

Conclusion

As someone who crafts menus for a living, I can say this with confidence: Chick-fil-A gets sides right. They’re not an afterthought—they’re thoughtfully designed to elevate your meal.

From the universally loved Waffle Fries to the healthful Kale Crunch and the bold, unapologetically Southern Pimento Cheese, each side plays its part. And that’s what separates a good menu from a great one—every item matters.

So next time you swing by Chick-fil-A, I encourage you to think beyond the entrée. Explore the sides. Mix things up. Because sometimes, the supporting cast steals the show.