Does Chick-fil-A Have Fish Sandwiches in 2022?

Chick-fil-A’s delicious chicken sandwiches and waffle fries have made it one of the most popular fast food chains in the United States. But with its focus on chicken many customers wonder if Chick-fil-A offers any fish sandwiches especially during Lent when Catholics abstain from eating meat on Fridays.

A Look at Chick-fil-A’s History with Fish Sandwiches

In the past, Chick-fil-A has occasionally offered limited-time fish sandwiches during Lent. For example in 2019 they tested a battered and breaded fish sandwich with American cheese and their signature Chick-fil-A sauce on a toasted bun.

The fish sandwich was rolled out at select locations in Charleston, South Carolina as well as parts of Georgia and the Gulf Coast. Customer response was positive, but Chick-fil-A ultimately decided not to add the sandwich to their national menu.

Chick-fil-A also experimented with a fish taco and fish salad in 2012. These seafood options were limited to stores in Florida. Again, they were not launched nationwide due to Chick-fil-A’s focus on chicken.

Why No Fish Sandwiches on the Regular Menu?

First and foremost, Chick-fil-A sees itself as a chicken specialty restaurant. Their menu is purposefully slimmed down compared to other fast food chains Chick-fil-A focuses on doing just a few items really well, especially their signature breaded chicken sandwich which put them on the map

By not dabbling in too many categories, Chick-fil-A can pay extra attention to the quality and preparation of their core chicken items. Their kitchen workflow is designed for maximum efficiency in cooking fresh chicken.

Chick-fil-A is also a conservative company when it comes to rolling out new menu items. They prefer to stick to the classics rather than chasing trends. The chain tests extensively before launching anything nationwide. Even minor tweaks like removing pickles from the chicken sandwich go through months of quality assurance testing.

Availability of Fish Sandwiches During Lent 2022

For Lent 2022, Chick-fil-A does not appear to be bringing back fish sandwiches or other seafood options – at least not nationwide. Some customers have reported seeing fish sandwiches at a small number of locations, but this seems to be rare.

The company has not made any official announcement about fish sandwiches for Lent 2022. With Ash Wednesday occurring on March 2, it’s unlikely Chick-fil-A will add fish this late without promotional marketing.

On Reddit forums and social media, many customers have expressed disappointment that fish sandwiches will not be available for Lent 2022. However, Chick-fil-A has focused marketing efforts on their meatless options for vegetarian customers observing Lent.

What Seafood Does Chick-fil-A Offer?

While fish sandwiches are extremely limited, Chick-fil-A has recently added a few non-fried seafood options:

• Chick-fil-A Chicken Tortilla Soup – contains shrimp
• Kale Crunch Side – contains omega-3 rich sardines
• Superfood Side (Market Salad) – contains broccolini and kale blended with dried cherries, nuts, and apple cider vinaigrette

So if you’re really craving seafood, the soup or salads may help satisfy the urge. But don’t expect to find a fish fillet sandwich at Chick-fil-A anytime soon.

Why Customers Want a Fish Sandwich

The demand for fish sandwiches during Lent is strong enough that Chick-fil-A keeps considering it. Here’s why customers would welcome the addition:

• Abstaining from meat – Fish sandwiches provide an easy way for Catholics to avoid meat while still being able to grab fast food during Lent. Other chains like McDonald’s, Wendy’s and Arby’s offer fish sandwiches.

• Provides variety – Even customers who don’t observe Lent would like to see Chick-fil-A offer more variety beyond chicken. The occasional fish sandwich would shake up the menu.

• Healthy protein option – Fish provides lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, so it aligns well with nutrition goals.

• Kid-friendly taste – What child doesn’t love a crispy fish sandwich with tangy sauce? Fish sandwiches appeal to young palates.

• Novelty of new menu item – People like novelty. Fish would generate buzz and interest for being something new on the menu.

Chick-fil-A Promotes Chicken-Free Options for Lent

Rather than bringing back fish sandwiches for Lent 2022, Chick-fil-A is focused on promoting their existing non-chicken offerings. Options highlighted this Lent include:

• Chick-fil-A Chicken Soup – features vegetables and potato-style bites
• Superfood Side salad – contains kale, broccolini, nuts, dried cherries
• Hash Brown Scramble Bowl – with eggs, cheese, potatoes
• Frosted Caramel Coffee – for those giving up sweet treats

The company notes that side salads, waffle potato fries, and other sides can be bundled as a low-cost veggie plate. Their coffee and tea also make nice meatless options.

By showcasing existing menu items for Lent, Chick-fil-A avoids supply issues and the risk of launching a new product just for short term.

The Verdict: Don’t Expect Fish Sandwiches at Chick-fil-A

Based on recent history and the lack of promotion for 2022, the verdict is no fish sandwiches on the horizon this Lent at Chick-fil-A. The chain seems committed to protecting its chicken specialty status by limiting non-chicken offerings.

Occasional trials of fish suggest Chick-fil-A recognizes the demand. However, adding a non-chicken protein like fish year-round would represent a major shift for the brand.

For now, seafood fans must look elsewhere for their fast food fish sandwich fix during Lent. Chick-fil-A’s chicken-centric menu remains focused on what they do best, without trying to be all things to all people.