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Chick Fil A

Sweet Tea Recipe

Master the iconic Chick-fil-A sweet tea recipe at home with this quick and easy method. Learn how to create that perfect balance of sweetness and tea flavor that keeps customers coming back for more. Simple ingredients, authentic taste - how to make restaurant-quality sweet tea in minutes!

Prep

5 mins

Cook

10 mins

Serve

Kcal

100

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">4 liters water, divided</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">350g granulated sugar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">12 regular-sized black tea bags (preferably orange pekoe or a blend)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 lemon, sliced (optional for garnish)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Ice cubes for serving</li></ul>

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Bring 2 liters of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Once boiling, remove from heat and immediately add all 12 tea bags. Allow the tea to steep for exactly 8 minutes - this precise timing helps achieve that signature Chick-fil-A flavor intensity without becoming bitter.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> While the tea is steeping, add the sugar to a large heat-resistant serving pitcher or container that can hold at least 4 liters. When the steeping time is complete, remove the tea bags (don't squeeze them as this can add bitterness) and carefully pour the hot tea into the pitcher with the sugar.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Stir the hot tea and sugar mixture thoroughly until all the sugar has completely dissolved. This typically takes about 1-2 minutes of consistent stirring - don't rush this step as it ensures perfect sweetness distribution throughout the tea.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Add the remaining 2 liters of cold water to the sweetened tea mixture and stir again to combine. This helps cool down the tea and achieves the right flavor concentration.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours until thoroughly chilled. For the authentic Chick-fil-A experience, overnight chilling is even better as it allows the flavors to fully develop and meld together.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the sweet tea over the ice, and if desired, garnish with a slice of fresh lemon. For the complete Chick-fil-A experience, serve in a large plastic cup with a straw.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Store any remaining sweet tea covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavor is best on the first and second day but will remain delicious if properly stored.</li></ol>

FAQ for

Sweet Tea Recipe

What ingredients are used in Sweet Tea from Chick-fil-A?

Chick-fil-A's Sweet Tea requires just a few simple ingredients: black tea bags (typically orange pekoe), granulated sugar, water, and optionally lemon slices for garnish. The secret lies in the proper steeping time and sugar-to-tea ratio for that signature taste.

How to cook Sweet Tea from Chick-fil-A at home?

Learn how to cook Sweet Tea from Chick-fil-A by steeping 12 black tea bags in 2 litres of boiling water for exactly 8 minutes, dissolving 350g sugar in the hot tea, then adding 2 more litres of cold water. The key is precise steeping time and thorough chilling for at least 3-4 hours to achieve that authentic restaurant taste.

Why is the 8-minute steeping time so important when making southern-style sweet tea?

The 8-minute steeping time is crucial as it extracts the perfect amount of flavour and tannins from the tea leaves. Any shorter and your tea will taste weak; any longer and it becomes bitter. This precise timing helps achieve that signature southern sweet tea intensity.

Can I reduce the sugar content in this southern iced tea recipe?

Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your preference. For a less sweet version, start with 200-250g instead of 350g. Alternatively, use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, though this will slightly alter the authentic taste profile.

What's the best type of tea to use for authentic southern sweet tea?

Orange pekoe or a standard black tea blend works best for authentic southern sweet tea. Avoid flavoured or herbal teas. Luzianne or Lipton tea bags are popular choices as they're specifically blended to avoid bitterness when brewed strong for iced tea.

The calorie count is an approximation and can vary based on exact measurements and specific ingredients used. Always consult nutritional information if strict adherence to calorie counts is required. This recipe is inspired by the flavours of this restaurant's dishes and has been independently developed for home cooking. It is not an exact match to the proprietary recipe used by the restaurant. This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by the restaurant.

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      "@type": "Review",
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      "datePublished": "2024-04-28",
      "reviewBody": "As a Southern girl who knows her sweet tea, I can confirm this recipe nails the Chick-fil-A flavor profile. The ratio of sugar to tea is perfect - sweet but not cloying.",
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      "@type": "Review",
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      "datePublished": "2024-04-25",
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Chick Fil A

Sweet Tea Recipe

Master the iconic Chick-fil-A sweet tea recipe at home with this quick and easy method. Learn how to create that perfect balance of sweetness and tea flavor that keeps customers coming back for more. Simple ingredients, authentic taste - how to make restaurant-quality sweet tea in minutes!

Prep

Cook

Serve

Kcal

Ingredients

Directions

What ingredients are used in Sweet Tea from Chick-fil-A?

How to cook Sweet Tea from Chick-fil-A at home?

Why is the 8-minute steeping time so important when making southern-style sweet tea?

Can I reduce the sugar content in this southern iced tea recipe?

What's the best type of tea to use for authentic southern sweet tea?

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