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Chick-fil-A is best known for one thing — the classic chicken sandwich.

But, have you tried the other Chick-fil-A sandwich? Chargrilled Chicken? Don’t feel bad if you said no. I’ve met people that have eaten at Chick-fil-A for 20 years, and never ordered anything except the classic. Not because something is wrong with the other CFA food, they simply love that original sandwich so much they can’t imagine eating anything else. And while that breaded, pressure cooked version remains the most popular and famous item on the menu, it’s chargrilled cousin is a worthy alternative with a unique taste and character of it’s own. Currently available in 2 varieties, the standard “Chargrilled Chicken” and the “Chargrilled Chicken Club” which adds Provolone cheese and smoked applewood bacon. Let’s take a look at the Club.

The first thing you’ll notice is the big black carton, instead of the classic’s foil envelope. Once you open the lid, you’re greeted by a wholesome looking golden wheat bun. It’s hearty bread, the type your mom wanted you to eat as a child, instead of always using white bread. A couple large whole leaves of lettuce are overflowing the carton, as if happy to be released from their packaging prison. There’s a plump little corner of grilled chicken breast visible, peeking out from underneath. The edge of a bacon slice is snuggled up next to the chicken, with a hint of melted cheese between. It’s not the classic CFA sandwich people are used to, but don’t be afraid… it’s still good.

The wheat bun is fantastic and has a wonderfully hearty taste and texture. It might not be my choice for everyday eating, but it’s great for a change of pace. It’s lightly toasted, but lacks the buttered treatment of the classic’s bun. The chicken breast filet is naked and grilled, instead of being breaded and pressure cooked. As usual, CFA has used their bag of magical seasonings and marinade to give this bird a terrific flavor, slightly similar to the classic but different enough to be unique. The grilled chicken is very tasty, but I have to be totally honest… it’s not as juicy or delicious as the breaded filet on the classic. In short, I would describe the flavor as being Chick-fil-A “lite”.

The most intriguing things about this sandwich are the smoked applewood bacon and Provolone cheese. Despite the obvious attraction of such tasty things, they’re simply unheard of among eaters of the classic. I’m hoping that might change, because I’d like to see these toppings made available on the classic sandwich. I really enjoyed the extra depth they added to the grilled version. There’s just enough of each to create an excellent balance of rich, mellow flavors. The bacon is thin and tender, without being slimy. It’s almost like ham, as opposed to the crispy strips found on many fast-food sandwiches. And even though it’s a strip too, it’s wound up and cooked into a circular shape. I’m not sure how they do it so neatly, but it looks cool and tastes great.

In addition to the lettuce, there’s a few slices of tomato and dill pickles. The veggies are fresh and taste good. There is no sauce or other condiments on the sandwich, but it comes with a packet of barbecue sauce on the side. One thing that I find unusual, even humorous, is the size and amount of lettuce leaves included. The first time I tried this sandwich a long time ago, I assumed they gave me a double portion. But I’ve eaten it many times between then and this review, and it’s usually the same. I feel like there’s enough lettuce to build a small salad, and I end up removing about half of it. That’s not really a complaint, just a curious observation I wanted to share.

The Chargrilled Chicken Club from Chick-fil-A is a very good sandwich with a nice variety of flavors and ingredients. It’s not the same finger-licking love-fest I have with the classic, simply because I don’t like the grilled chicken as much as the breaded, pressure cooked bird. That’s the bottom line, and the reason this doesn’t get as high of score. However, this version has less fat and calories, includes extra veggies, and gets credit for being the healthier choice. The problem with making the best chicken sandwich on the market, is that even your own company’s alternatives are faced with trying to match it’s quality and success. Still, I feel certain that Chick-fil-A, CFA fans, and founder Truett Cathy would agree with me… it’s a good problem to have.

Price: $4.19 / Website: Chick-fil-A.com

Fast Food Critic Score: B+

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Nutrition Facts - Chick-fil-A, Chargrilled Chicken Club.

Calories - 370
Calories from Fat - 100
Total Fat - 11 grams
Carbs - 34 grams
Saturated Fat - 5 grams
Trans Fat - 0 grams
Cholesterol - 75 milligrams
Sodium - 1590 milligrams
Protein - 35 grams