Memorial Day weekend is a time for honoring those who served, firing up the grill, and spending time with loved ones. But what happens when the grill isn't an option, you're on the road, or you simply don't feel like cooking? If you're wondering whether you can swing by your local Chick-fil-A on Memorial Day this year, we've got great news—and a game plan for keeping your meal nutritious while you're at it.
Chick-fil-A Will Be Open on Memorial Day 2025
Unlike Thanksgiving and Christmas Day—when all Chick-fil-A locations are closed—the chain remains open for business on Memorial Day. A Chick-fil-A, Inc. spokesperson confirmed to TODAY.com that U.S. restaurants will be operating on Monday, May 26, 2025. "Unlike the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, U.S. Chick-fil-A restaurants are open on Memorial Day," the company states on its official website. However, it's worth noting that hours of operation can vary by location. Most restaurants will stick to their regular schedule, typically opening around 6:30 AM for breakfast and closing at 9:00 PM, but some may adjust their hours. Chick-fil-A recommends checking with your local restaurant directly or using the Chick-fil-A app for the most accurate information.
In addition to dine-in and takeout, Chick-fil-A's catering menu is also available on Memorial Day—a convenient option if you're hosting a gathering and want to skip the hassle of cooking. Catering menus and availability differ by location, so it's best to place orders online or over the phone in advance.
How to Eat Healthy at Chick-fil-A This Memorial Day
Just because you're eating fast food on a holiday doesn't mean you have to derail your health goals. Chick-fil-A actually offers several surprisingly nutritious options that can keep you on track. The key is knowing what to order—and what to skip. According to nutrition experts and weight loss coaches, the difference between a meal that supports your goals and one that doesn't often comes down to just a few smart choices. The golden rule? Go grilled. Skip the sauce. Here's everything you need to know.
The Best Healthy Orders at Chick-fil-A
1. 8-Count Grilled Nuggets (130 calories, 25g protein) — This is hands-down the best option on the menu. With only 3 grams of fat and 25 grams of protein, these nuggets are filling without being heavy. Pair them with a Kale Crunch Side and an unsweetened iced tea for a complete meal under 300 calories. For a heartier portion, the 12-count delivers 38 grams of protein at just under 210 calories.
2. Grilled Chicken Sandwich (390 calories, 28g protein) — When you have the option between fried and grilled, always choose grilled. The original fried chicken sandwich packs more calories, more fat, and significantly more sodium. At 390 calories with 28 grams of protein, the grilled version is a satisfying lunch that won't weigh you down. Pro tip: ask them to hold the butter to save an additional 30 calories, or skip the bun entirely for a low-carb option.
3. Grilled Market Salad (310-320 calories before dressing) — Dietitians consistently recommend this salad for its mix of lean protein, fresh produce, and healthy fats. It features romaine and baby greens, sliced grilled chicken, crumbled blue cheese, and a mix of red and green apples, strawberries, and blueberries. But watch the dressing—the Zesty Apple Cider Vinaigrette adds 230 calories while the Chili Lime Vinaigrette adds only 170. Avoid the Avocado Lime Ranch (310 calories) and Creamy Salsa (290 calories) if you're watching your intake.
4. Grilled Chicken Cool Wrap (350 calories, 42g protein) — This wrap delivers an impressive 42 grams of protein for just 350 calories before dressing. It's one of the most protein-dense options on the menu, making it ideal for post-workout refueling or keeping you full during a busy holiday. Skip the heavy dressings and opt for Light Balsamic Vinaigrette or Chili Lime Vinaigrette instead.
5. Egg White Grill (290 calories, 26g protein) — If you're heading out early on Memorial Day, this breakfast sandwich made with egg whites and American cheese is your best bet. It's a solid 290 calories with 26 grams of protein. Hold the cheese to save 50 calories, or ask for extra egg whites for even more protein.
Sauces and Dressings: Where Most Calories Hide
The single biggest trap at Chick-fil-A isn't the fried chicken—it's what you put on top of it. Chick-fil-A Sauce, for all its deliciousness, adds 140 calories per serving. The Avocado Lime Ranch dressing packs a whopping 310 calories, and the Creamy Salsa adds 290. These "extras" can quietly turn a 350-calorie meal into a 600-calorie one without you even noticing. Smart swaps include hot sauce (0 calories), ketchup (25 calories), or the Chili Lime Vinaigrette (170 calories). Even better, ask for your dressing on the side so you can control how much you use.
The One Rule That Covers Everything
If you can only remember one thing this Memorial Day when ordering at Chick-fil-A, make it this: go grilled and skip the sauce. Grilled instead of fried cuts calories and fat significantly, and avoiding heavy sauces and dressings prevents hundreds of hidden calories from sneaking into your meal. Make these two swaps consistently and you can eat at Chick-fil-A on the holiday without it slowing down your health goals at all.
Plan Ahead So You Don't Make Decisions on an Empty Stomach
Nutrition experts recommend downloading the Chick-fil-A app before you're hungry. When you're starving, you're far more likely to make impulsive choices—adding the large fry, upgrading to a milkshake, or grabbing that extra sauce packet. The app lets you build your order ahead of time, see calories as you customize, and save your go-to healthy favorites. Plan the order when you're thinking clearly, and execute it when you're not. It's one of the simplest habits that pays off every single time.
The Bottom Line: Yes, You Can Eat Healthy at Chick-fil-A on Memorial Day
Chick-fil-A is open on Memorial Day 2025, and with a little planning, you can absolutely enjoy a meal there that supports your health and fitness goals. Focus on grilled proteins, load up on veggie sides like the Kale Crunch, and keep your sauces and dressings in check. Most importantly, remember that one meal doesn't define your progress—it's your overall pattern of eating that matters. So enjoy your holiday, honor those who served, and feel good about making a smart choice when hunger strikes.
