5 Reasons Why Popeyes Chicken Sandwiches Are Better than Chick-fil-A

Chick-Fil-A History

Chick-Fil-A is a family-owned restaurant that is known for delicious chicken, being closed on Sundays, and staff that always says “my pleasure” instead of thanking you. But where exactly did this famous chicken chain get its start?

In 1946 Cathy Truett began a small restaurant with his brother Ben. The name The Dwarf Grill was the small catapult that Cathy Truett needed towards the success of Chick-fil-A.

Chick-Fil-A Was Born

22 years after The Dwarf House was started, Chick-fil-A was dreamed up. The very first one opened in Atlanta Georgia, in none other than a shopping center. Through the years the restaurant has grown in popularity due to its customer service, excellent chicken, and so much more.

Popeyes History

While Chick-fil-A is quite popular, and for good reason, Popeyes Chicken takes the cake when it comes to having the best chicken chain.

In order to become a top chicken restaurant in the United States, Popeyes had to have started somewhere. Its humble beginning started in Louisiana in 1972.

Popeyes Louisiana Chicken

The first Popeyes Chicken had a slightly different name, and that was Chicken on the Run. However, the restaurant wasn’t as big of a hit. Therefore, Alvin Copeland decided to rebrand. In 1976, Copeland opened the first Popeyes Chicken with a new name and a new spice.

Popularity of Chick-Fil-La

There’s no denying that Chick-fil-A has grown immensely popular over the years. In fact, according to Statista, this chain is the most popular chicken restaurant in the United States. In 2023, Chick-fil-A had 21,584 million dollars’ worth of sales. Putting it far ahead of the second-leading chicken chain. Which is, you guessed it, Popeyes Chicken.

Popularity of Popeyes

Since its beginning, Popeyes has increased incredibly in popularity. This is partly due to its unique Louisiana-inspired chicken, buttermilk biscuits, and catchy jingle.

According to Statista, Popeyes is the second leading chicken chain in the United States, with 5,511 million dollars in sales in 2023.

While Chick-fil-A does outpace Popeyes when it comes to sales, there’s still a very strong case to be made that Popeyes Chicken sandwich is far superior. Let’s take a look at why.

Chick-Fil-La Chicken Sandwich Taste

Sometimes when you eat chicken, it is overly spiced with quite a bit of kick to it. However, in Chick-fil-A’s case, their chicken can be described as mild. But don’t mistake mild for having no taste.

Chick-fil-A takes pride in using top-grade chickens for their recipes. Additionally, the chicken is cooked using a pressure cooker. This creates delicious chicken that is juicy and tender, fully cooked but not overcooked.

Popeyes Chicken Sandwich Taste

Popeyes Chicken has a flavor and taste that is different than any other chicken restaurant. For starters, many Redditors agree that Popeyes flavor is far superior to any chicken chain, even Chick-fil-A. Could it be the crispy outer layer? Or the juiciness as soon as you take a bite?

Popeyes marinates their chicken in a Louisiana seasoning from the very beginning. Though we don’t know every ingredient in their secret recipe. Whatever it is, it keeps customers coming back for more.

The Texture of Chick-fil-A Chicken

Chick-fil-A chicken is often described as tender, with the texture being crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Of course, if you order the grilled chicken, the juiciness pops.

The Texture of Popeyes Chicken

Popeyes Friend chicken has a heavier breading than Chick-Fil-A. Which means the texture is much crispier. This texture is achieved by soaking the chicken in a buttermilk. Then the batter is added, creating a very texture that crumbles like fried chicken but still keeps the chicken on the inside juicy.

Chick-Fil-La Spices

When it comes to the recipe of Chick-fil-A, only a select few know what goes into it. However, there are over 20 seasonings that bring a delicious flavor to one of America’s favorite chicken meals.

While we may never get a confirmation, there are many rumors stating that Chick-fil-A uses pickle juice to marinate their chicken. One reason this is such a strong rumor is because the flavor of the chicken can be described as vinegary or tangy.

Popeyes Spices

Popeyes Chicken uses Louisiana style seasonings and herbs. Though we don’t know exactly what goes into each bite of chicken, whatever it is, creates a savory flavor that has just enough kick to it. There’s not too much salt or too little.

Value of Chick-Fil-La Chicken

Another reason Chick-fil-A is so popular is because of their high standards for their chicken. Their first step to better chicken means only using chickens without antibiotics. Furthermore, instead of using ground chicken, they choose to use the whole chicken breast.

Value of Popeyes Chicken

Popeyes takes the value of their chicken very seriously. Quality is of the upmost importance to this restaurant. That is why they have a commitment to using cage free eggs and by eliminating the use of chicken that have been given antibiotics.

Overall Customer Satisfaction with Chick-fil-A

When it comes to customer satisfaction Chick-fil-A outranks the majority of American restaurants. With staff trained on how to be welcoming to their incredible efficiency, it can be difficult to beat Chick-fil-A in this area.

Overall Customer Satisfaction with Popeyes

Customer satisfaction with Popeyes chicken sandwich is just as high up as Chick-fil-A. Customers rave about how juicy and savory the flavor is. While also commenting on how it is difficult to beat the outer layer crunch. The one complaint that Popeyes does get though is with their actual customer service. Of course, that doesn’t necessarily play a part in how delicious their chicken sandwich is. (Although it does affect customer experience.)

Popeyes is the Clear Winner

While the consensus will always be divided between the two, one could make a very strong case that Popeyes is the clear winner. Chick-fil-A may have a flavorful chicken sandwich, Popeyes stands out for the extra kick they put in their spices and breading. Additionally, the texture of Popeyes chicken is one that stands out from the rest. The breading adds an extra thick layer and a crunch that is quite frankly, hard to find anywhere else.

Popeyes is exactly what one would want in a fried chicken sandwich.

For these reasons alone, Popeyes comes out on top. Of course, their commitment to value when it comes to the food they serve, is an added bonus. (Read: 7 Comfort Food Classics Cracker Barrel Should Immediately Add to Its Menu.)