Grabbing a quick meal at a Chick-fil-A Express inside a Walmart or college campus follows a slightly different price structure than a standalone location. You might be surprised to learn that the Chick-fil-A Express Menu with Prices is often a bit more streamlined, focusing on your favorite core items rather than the full lineup. This guide breaks down exactly what you can expect to pay and order when you find one of these convenient kiosks.
These smaller locations are designed for speed and simplicity. They don’t have the full kitchen capacity of a freestanding restaurant, so the menu is intentionally shorter. However, you will still find the classic chicken sandwich, nuggets, and waffle fries that made the brand famous.
Understanding The Express Model
Before we get into specific numbers, it helps to understand why the menu looks different. An Express location operates in a limited space, often inside a Walmart Supercenter or a university food court. Because of this, they focus on high-volume items that cook quickly.
You will not find grilled chicken options or milkshakes at most of these spots. The equipment is just not there. Instead, you get the essentials, and you get them fast. This is perfect if you are on a lunch break or shopping and need a reliable bite.
Another key difference is the lack of a dining room. Most Express units are counter-service only, with a few tables nearby if you are in a mall. You order at the kiosk or counter, get your food, and you are on your way.
Chick-fil-A Express Menu With Prices
Here is the current breakdown of what you can order at a typical Express location. Please remember that prices can vary slightly based on the state and the specific franchise owner. These are the most common price points you will see in 2024.
Main Entrees
The entree selection is focused on the chicken. You have a few choices, but they are all solid. The classic options are always available, and they are cooked fresh throughout the day.
- Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich: This is the flagship item. A breaded chicken filet on a toasted buttered bun with two pickles. Expect to pay around $5.35.
- Spicy Chicken Sandwich: The same great filet but with a spicy breading and spicy pepper jack cheese. This usually runs about $5.85.
- Chick-n-Strips (3 Count): These are hand-breaded strips of chicken breast. A solid choice if you want to dip them in sauce. Priced near $5.65.
- Chick-n-Strips (4 Count): A larger portion for bigger appetites. You will likely pay around $6.55 for this.
- Chicken Nuggets (8 Count): Bite-sized pieces of chicken, perfect for a quick snack or a light meal. These are usually $5.35.
- Chicken Nuggets (12 Count): The best value if you are really hungry. This box is typically priced at $6.85.
Kid’s Meals
If you have kids with you, or you just want a smaller portion, the kid’s meals are a great option. They come with a small entree, a small fry, a fruit cup or applesauce, and a small drink.
- Kid’s Meal – Nuggets: Includes 4 nuggets. Priced around $5.15.
- Kid’s Meal – Chick-n-Strips: Includes 1 strip. Usually runs about $5.15.
Sides And Treats
You cannot have a Chick-fil-A meal without the waffle fries. They are a staple. The sides are limited but perfectly portioned for the Express model.
- Waffle Potato Fries (Small): A generous serving of the crispy, salty fries. Priced at $2.35.
- Waffle Potato Fries (Medium): A bigger basket for sharing or for a hearty appetite. Expect to pay $2.85.
- Waffle Potato Fries (Large): The biggest size they offer. This is around $3.25.
- Mac & Cheese: A creamy, baked side dish that has become very popular. It is usually $3.25 per cup.
- Chocolate Chunk Cookie: A classic dessert option. Priced at $1.95.
Beverages
Drink options are standard. You will find all the usual sodas, sweet tea, and lemonade. They also have bottled water and juices.
- Soft Drinks (Small): Usually $1.95.
- Soft Drinks (Medium): Priced around $2.25.
- Soft Drinks (Large): Typically $2.55.
- Freshly Brewed Iced Tea (Sweet/Unsweet): Around $2.15 for a medium.
- Chick-fil-A Lemonade: A fan favorite. A medium is usually $2.75.
How To Order Efficiently
Speed is the name of the game at these locations. If you want to get in and out quickly, you need to have a plan. Here are a few steps to make your visit smoother.
- Check the kiosk: Many Express locations have self-order kiosks. This is often the fastest way to order if you are paying by card.
- Know your sauce: Decide on your dipping sauce before you reach the counter. The most popular is the Chick-fil-A Sauce, but Polynesian and Ranch are also common.
- Skip the customizations: While you can ask for no pickles, complex modifications can slow down the line. Keep it simple for the best experience.
- Pay attention to hours: Express locations inside Walmart often close earlier than the store itself. Check the posted hours before you walk over.
Comparing Express To Standalone Prices
You might be wondering if you are getting a deal or paying a premium. In most cases, the prices at an Express location are very similar to a standalone restaurant. There is usually only a 10 to 20 cent difference, if any.
However, you are not getting the full menu. You cannot order a grilled chicken cool wrap or a frosted coffee. The trade-off is convenience. You are paying for the ability to grab a sandwich without navigating a busy parking lot and a long drive-thru line.
It is also worth noting that the portion sizes are the same. You are not getting a smaller sandwich just because it is an Express location. The food quality is identical to what you would get at a full-size store.
Why The Menu Is Limited
There is a reason you do not see salads or breakfast items at most of these kiosks. The cooking equipment is limited to pressure fryers and a small holding cabinet. They cannot grill or prepare cold items safely in the same volume.
This focus on a limited menu actually helps with quality control. The staff at these locations only need to master a few items. This means your chicken sandwich is just as fresh and juicy as one from a flagship store. They are constantly cooking small batches to keep up with demand.
If you are looking for breakfast, you will need to find a full-service location. Express stores typically open at 10:30 AM or 11:00 AM, right when lunch service begins. This aligns with the shopping hours of the host store.
Payment And Mobile Ordering
Most Express locations accept all major credit cards, debit cards, and mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. You can also use the Chick-fil-A app to earn points on your purchase.
However, mobile ordering is a bit tricky. Some Express locations do not support the “Curbside Pickup” or “Mobile Order” feature in the app. You often have to order directly at the counter. If you want to use the app, you might need to scan your QR code at the register to earn points, but you cannot pre-pay.
This is a common frustration for customers. The app is excellent at standalone locations, but the Express model relies on high foot traffic and quick counter service. It is best to just walk up and order.
Finding Your Nearest Express
You can use the store locator on the Chick-fil-A website to find an Express location near you. They are most commonly found in Walmart Supercenters, university student unions, and airports. The locator will tell you if it is a full-service restaurant or an Express unit.
It is a good idea to call ahead if you are making a special trip. While the menu is standard, some locations might be out of a specific item like the Spicy Sandwich due to supply chain issues. A quick phone call can save you a wasted trip.
Also, remember that these locations do not have a play area for kids. They are purely functional. If you need a place for the kids to burn off energy, you will want to go to a standalone store with a playground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have about the Express menu and pricing.
Are prices higher at Chick-fil-A Express locations?
Generally, no. The prices are very close to what you would pay at a standalone location. You might see a slight increase of 10 to 20 cents on some items, but it is not a significant markup. The convenience factor does not usually come with a huge price jump.
Can I use coupons at a Chick-fil-A Express?
Most of the time, no. The Express locations are operated by the host store (like Walmart) or a specific franchisee. They often do not honor the local standalone restaurant’s coupons or promotions. You are better off using the app for points, but paper coupons are usually not accepted.
Do they have the full sauce selection?
They have the most popular sauces. You will almost always find Chick-fil-A Sauce, Polynesian, and Ranch. However, they might not have the full condiment station with multiple options like the standalone stores. You have to ask for specific sauces at the counter.
Is the chicken cooked fresh at Express locations?
Yes, it is. The staff cooks the chicken in small batches throughout the day. This ensures that you get a hot, fresh sandwich. They do not pre-cook and hold the food for long periods, which keeps the quality high.
Can I order a milkshake at an Express?
No, you cannot. Milkshakes and frosted beverages require an ice cream machine that is not available in the Express format. You will only find soft drinks, tea, lemonade, and bottled water at these locations.
Final Thoughts On The Express Experience
If you are in a Walmart or on a campus, the Express location is a reliable option. It offers the core Chick-fil-A taste you know, with out the long wait. The menu is short, but it hits the spot.
Just rememeber to bring your patience if you go during peak lunch hours. Even with a limited menu, these spots can get busy. The line moves fast, but it can be long. The staff are usually very efficient and friendly.
Overall, you are getting a decent value for your money. The sandwich is the same size and quality as the regular store. You are just trading the full menu for the speed and convenience of a kiosk. That trade is often worth it when you are on the go.
So next time you are shopping and smell those waffle fries, you know exactly what to expect. You can grab a classic sandwich and a drink for under eight dollars. It is a simple, satisfying meal that fits into a busy schedule.