Quick Answer
Chick-fil-A sauce does contain dairy, but it is gluten-free. The sauce is made with ingredients like egg yolk, milk, and butter, which contain dairy. However, none of the ingredients contain gluten. So people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity can safely consume Chick-fil-A sauce.
Ingredients in Chick-fil-A Sauce
Here are the main ingredients found in Chick-fil-A sauce:
- Soybean oil
- Water
- Egg yolk
- Distilled vinegar
- Sugar
- Salt
- Mustard flour
- Onion powder
- Milk
- Buttermilk
- Garlic powder
- Lemon juice
- Calcium disodium EDTA (preservative)
- Natural flavor
- Butter
As you can see, the sauce contains dairy ingredients like egg yolk, milk, buttermilk, and butter. However, none of the ingredients contain gluten sources like wheat, barley, rye or malt.
Why Chick-fil-A Sauce Contains Dairy
Chick-fil-A sauce contains several dairy ingredients for the following reasons:
- Egg yolk adds rich flavor, creaminess, and yellow color
- Milk helps make the sauce creamy and adds a subtle sweetness
- Buttermilk provides tanginess and enhances the creamy texture
- Butter adds richness and velvety smoothness
Together, these dairy components help give Chick-fil-A sauce its signature thick, creamy texture and tangy flavor. The egg yolk in particular helps emulsify the oil and water to create a smooth, lush mouthfeel.
Is Chick-fil-A Sauce Gluten-Free?
Yes, Chick-fil-A sauce is gluten-free. It does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients.
Here are the main reasons why Chick-fil-A sauce is gluten-free:
- It does not contain wheat, barley, rye or malt
- Mustard flour used is likely made from mustard seeds, which are gluten-free
- Vinegar and lemon juice provide acidity, not malt vinegar
- Soybean oil is used instead of wheat-derived oils
- Thickening agents like xanthan gum are gluten-free
Chick-fil-A does clearly state on their website that the sauce is gluten-free. They have likely taken care to formulate it this way to accommodate customers who have celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
What is Gluten?
Gluten is a general name for proteins found in wheat, rye, barley and other related cereal grains. It acts as a “glue” that helps food maintain its shape and texture.
For most people, gluten does not cause any issues or negative health effects. However, for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can trigger symptoms like:
- Diarrhea, constipation, bloating
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Skin rashes
- Joint pain
Avoiding gluten allows those with gluten disorders to manage their symptoms. This is why it’s important for them to stick to a strict gluten-free diet, including when consuming condiments like Chick-fil-A sauce.
How Chick-Fil-A Sauce Is Made
The exact recipe and preparation method for Chick-fil-A sauce is proprietary information. However, based on the ingredients list, we can make some educated guesses about how it’s produced:
- Egg yolks and dairy ingredients like milk and buttermilk are mixed together in a blender or large mixer.
- Oil is slowly drizzled in while continuing to blend. This emulsifies the liquids to create a thick, creamy base.
- Sugar, salt, spices, mustard, and lemon juice are whisked in for flavor.
- The sauce is passed through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove any bits of egg or seasoning.
- Xanthan gum or other thickeners may be used to adjust the viscosity.
- The sauce is heated briefly to pasteurize and stop fermentation.
- After cooling, butter is whisked in to enrich the sauce.
- The sauce is packaged for distribution to restaurants.
This is likely a simplified overview of the real industrial process used to make large batches of the sauce. But it provides some insights into how they leverage dairy ingredients to achieve that signature creamy, tangy flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts for Chick-Fil-A Sauce
Here is the nutrition information for a typical serving (1 oz) of Chick-fil-A sauce:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 25mg |
| Sodium | 170mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 2g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugars | 1g |
| Protein | 1g |
As you can see, the sauce is high in fat from the egg yolk, dairy and oil. It also contains 25mg cholesterol and 170mg sodium per serving.
However, it’s relatively low in carbohydrates and contains no fiber or added sugars. The protein comes from the egg yolk component.
So while Chick-fil-A sauce tastes delicious, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet. The serving size is quite small at just 1 ounce.
Where to Buy Chick-Fil-A Sauce
Wondering where you can purchase Chick-fil-A sauce if there isn’t a restaurant location near you? Here are some ways to get your hands on it:
- Online – Chick-fil-A sells their signature sauce on their website for home delivery. You can order an 8 ounce bottle.
- Grocery Stores – Some grocery chains like Publix, Kroger, Walmart and H-E-B sell the sauce in the condiment aisle.
- Amazon – Third party resellers offer the sauce for sale on Amazon. So you can utilize Amazon’s quick delivery options.
- Restaurant Location – You can visit any Chick-fil-A restaurant and ask to purchase a bottle or cup of the sauce to take home.
The sauce typically costs between $3-6 per 8 ounce bottle depending on where you buy it from. It’s not the most economical condiment, but for fans of the flavor, it may be worth splurging on.
Chick-fil-A also sells their Polynesian and Barbeque sauces at select locations if you want to sample other options.
How to Make a Copycat Recipe
Because the original Chick-fil-A sauce recipe is secret, many home cooks and food bloggers have tried making copycat DIY versions.
If you want to recreate that zesty, creamy magic at home, here’s a recipe to try:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Whisk together all ingredients in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more vinegar for tanginess or cayenne for spice.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using to allow flavors to meld.
- Store leftover sauce for up to 1 week.
- Use on sandwiches, chicken nuggets, fries, or as a dip for anything you desire!
This easy 5-minute blend replicates the tangy creaminess of Chick-fil-A sauce quite well. The mayo provides a rich base, while mustard, honey and spices add flavor complexity.
Give it a try the next time you’re cooking at home and want to elevate your meal with a special sauce. It’s great to have on hand for chicken dishes, appetizers, or even grilled vegetables.
Common Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Chick-fil-A sauce:
Does Chick-fil-A sauce have eggs in it?
Yes, Chick-fil-A sauce contains egg yolks which help give it a rich, creamy texture. People with egg allergies should avoid consuming the sauce.
Is Chick-fil-A sauce vegetarian?
No, Chick-fil-A sauce is not vegetarian because it contains egg yolks and dairy ingredients like buttermilk and butter. It would be considered a lacto-ovo sauce.
Can you buy Chick-fil-A sauce in the grocery store?
In some grocery retailers like Walmart, Publix, and Kroger you can find Chick-fil-A sauce sold in bottles near other condiments. But availability may vary by location. Check your local grocer or online.
How long does Chick-fil-A sauce last after opening?
An opened bottle of Chick-fil-A sauce will stay fresh in the fridge for about 6-8 weeks. Look for any mold development, sour smell or texture changes before consuming. Discard if expired.
Is Chick-fil-A sauce spicy?
Chick-fil-A sauce has a mild spice level. It contains ingredients like mustard, black pepper, and paprika but is not very hot or pungent. The flavor profile is more tangy and creamy than spicy.
Conclusion
Chick-fil-A sauce is a popular condiment thanks to its unique tangy, creamy, sweet flavor profile. It contains egg yolks, dairy, and seasonings that come together into an addictive dip or dressing.
The sauce does have dairy, but no gluten. This makes it accommodating for those avoiding gluten but not vegans or dairy-free eaters. There are also ways to purchase or make it at home rather easily.
Overall, Chick-fil-A sauce is a tasty enhancement that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of healthy diet. Its creamy and zesty qualities make many menu items at the restaurant even more crave-worthy. So feel free to dip away when enjoying your chicken sandwiches and waffle fries!
