Like most restaurants, Chick-fil-A has had to make changes to its menu and service model in response to COVID-19.

According to Keri Branson, marketing director for the Monkey Junction Chick-fil-A location, the company typically rolls out seasonal items such as frosty beverages and milkshakes during the spring and summer months.

But this year, with the need to serve beverages in flat-top, sealed containers that do not allow for whipped cream and cherries on top, the company decided to forgo these beverages.

Instead, they have rolled out a new promotional product, the Chicken Parmesan Meal Kit, which made its debut last week.
The meal kit is one of several that were tested in the Atlanta market in 2018.

“Our guests are currently experiencing unique challenges, which is why we’re proud to offer the Chicken Parmesan Meal Kit as an easy way for them to enjoy a delicious meal from the safety and comfort of home,” said menu and packaging program lead at Chick-fil-A, Ben Bolling, in a statement from the company.

The kit, which is available for two or four servings, features pre-measured and ready-to-heat ingredients with a six-step recipe card. It includes a bag of hot classic Chick fil A cutlets (grilled or spicy also available upon request) and a box with two sauces, cheese, pasta and fresh produce such as kale and cherry tomatoes and lemons.

Branson said each Chick-fil-A location works with regional farmers to provide the produce, making the produce at each location somewhat unique.

“The hardest part about cooking with kids at home is having them handle raw proteins, and with these kits, that part is taken out of the equation,” said Branson. “We’re had a great response so far.”

While the chicken Parmesan kits will only be available for a limited time, Chick-fil-A has added a new, permanent feature to their menu: family meals.

Each serves four and offers a choice of classic or spicy chicken sandwiches, or 30 chicken nuggets, along with a choice of sides (fries, mac and cheese or chocolate chip cookies) and a gallon of sweet or unsweet tea.  

Branson said the company is encouraging customer to utilize their mobile app as much as possible and the family meals are designed to make the app even more convenient.

“The whole idea is to simplify ordering and get people in and out quickly,” Branson said. “We’re really encouraging the app because it allows for contactless payment and helps us to serve the community as safely and efficiently as possible.”

Chick-fil-A has also launched a series of nightly cooking classes, Nightly Nuggets, posted to its Facebook page, featuring recipes from Chick-fil-A staff using their favorite Chick-fil-A menu items. Recipes include Sesame Nugget Bowls, Chick-fil-A Cordon Bleu and Bang Bang Chicken.

“Not everyone is used to cooking at home and this is a way that we can make it more approachable,” Branson said. “It’s another way to help in these difficult times.”

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