How Much is a Chicken Tender Sub at Publix?

The Publix chicken tender sub is an iconic sandwich beloved by many across the Southeastern United States. With its juicy chicken tenders, fresh-baked bread, and customizable toppings, it has achieved cult status among Publix shoppers. But how much does this popular sub actually cost? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the pricing, customization options, and factors that affect the cost of a Publix chicken tender sub.

For the uninitiated, the Publix chicken tender sub consists of crispy, hand-breaded chicken tenders layered on a soft sub roll. What sets it apart is the ability to customize it to your liking. You can choose the bread (white, wheat, or sub kit), cheese (American, provolone, Swiss), veggies (lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion), and condiments (mayo, mustard, buffalo sauce, ranch). This versatility is part of what has made it so beloved.

The chicken itself is the star. Publix prides itself on its fresh, never-frozen chicken tenders. Each tender is hand-breaded to order with the Publix proprietary breading, then deep fried until golden brown. The result is a crispy exterior enveloping tender, juicy chicken. Paired with the freshly baked bread and vegetables, it’s a flavorful sandwich with devoted fans.

Factors That Influence Cost

So how much does this famous sandwich cost? There are several factors that affect the final price

• Location: Prices vary by region. Stores in higher cost-of-living areas charge slightly more.

• Size: You can order a whole (12”) or half (6”) sub. Whole costs more.

• Promotions Publix frequently offers deals like buy-one-get-one-free,

• Premium Ingredients: Upcharges apply for specialty breads, bacon, avocado, etc.

• Customization: More toppings means a higher price.

Given these variables, expect to pay $9.99 to $11.99 for a whole chicken tender sub. The half size ranges from $6.99 to $8.99. Let’s break it down further.

Estimated Pricing by Region

Regionally, prices fluctuate slightly based on cost of living and demand:

Florida

• Whole: $9.99 to $10.99
• Half: $6.99 to $7.99

Georgia

• Whole: $10.49 to $10.99
• Half: $7.49 to $7.99

Alabama

• Whole: $10.99 to $11.49
• Half: $7.99 to $8.49

South Carolina

• Whole: $10.99 to $11.99
• Half: $7.99 to $8.99

Tennessee

• Whole: $10.99 to $11.49
• Half: $7.99 to $8.49

North Carolina

• Whole: $10.99 to $11.99
• Half: $7.99 to $8.99

Saving Money on Your Sub

Luckily, there are ways to save:

• Check Weekly Ad: Ad specials offer BOGO subs or $2 off.

• Buy Sub Club Card: $5.99 subs all year with $35 annual fee.

• Use Coupons: Occasional printable coupons for $1 to $2 off.

• Order Half-Size: Halves cost $2 to $3 less than whole subs.

• Avoid Upcharges: Stick to standard ingredients to minimize add-ons.

• Go After 4PM: Subs are $1 cheaper at some locations in the evenings.

With a little strategic planning, you can bring down that final total and enjoy delicious savings on your chicken tender sub.

Price Breakdown by Ingredients

Building your perfect chicken tender sub? Here’s how specific ingredients impact the final price:

Bread

• White or Wheat: Included
• Sub Kit or Wrap: $1.00 extra
• Other Specialty Breads: $0.50 to $1.00 extra

Cheese

• American or Provolone: Included
• Swiss, Cheddar, Pepper Jack: $0.50 extra

Veggies

• Lettuce, Tomato, Onion, Pickles: Included
• Avocado: $1.00 extra
• Spinach: $0.50 extra

Sauces & Condiments

• Mayo, Mustard, Buffalo, Ranch: Included
• Signature Sauces: $0.50 extra

Extras

• Bacon: $1.50 extra
• Double Meat: $3.00 to $4.00 extra

This chart gives you an idea of potential upcharges. Keep it in mind when selecting ingredients.

Other Important Questions

Beyond pricing, customers ask these common questions about the Publix chicken tender sub:

• Is there an online ordering option? Yes, delivery and pickup orders can be placed online.

• Can I use coupons? Generally no, but occasional exceptions for special promotions.

• What are the calorie counts? Around 800-1500 calories depending on size and toppings.

• Do you offer low-carb or keto options? Yes, sub kits or wraps are lower carb alternatives.

• Any gluten-free options? Some locations offer gluten-free sub rolls. Check with your store.

• Can I customize seasonings? No, but you can add sauces and spices.

• How long does it take to prepare? Around 10-15 minutes depending on customer volume. Allow extra time during peak lunch and dinner hours.

The Art of the Perfect Chicken Tender Sub

There really is an art to constructing the optimal chicken tender sub. Here are a few pro tips:

• Pick the right bread: Sub kits and wraps hold ingredients together while providing crunch.

• Layer strategically: Place lettuce and tomato next to bread to prevent sogginess.

• Sauce creatively: Combine buffalo and ranch for tangy zip or go classic with yellow mustard.

• Pile on pickles: Dill pickles add nice acidity and crunch.

• Add onion: Red onion or grilled onions give a flavor punch.

• Try double cheese: An extra layer of cheese ensures each bite is deliciously gooey.

With the right construction, you maximize the flavors and textures in every bite. It may seem simple, but the Publix chicken tender sub is a sublime symphony of ingredients!

Why People Love the Publix Chicken Tender Sub

It’s easy to see why the Publix chicken tender sub has reached icon status:

• Quality ingredients: Fresh, premium ingredients make a difference.

• Customization: Everyone can create their ideal sandwich.

• Chicken tenders: Consistently juicy, crispy, and delicious.

• Value: Satisfying portion sizes for the price.

• Nostalgia: Reminds many of beloved childhood memories.

• Uniqueness: A standout signature item not found elsewhere.

The Publix chicken tender sub has earned its popularity through quality, value, and customization. Understanding the pricing and cost factors allows you to better plan your next Publix run to pick up this classic sandwich. With a little strategic ordering, you can land the perfect chicken tender sub and have money left over for an iced tea or side item. The next time a chicken tender sub craving strikes, Publix is there to satisfy it!

A 12-inch Publix chicken tender sub with standard toppings (Italian bread, American cheese, veggies, and mayo) contains approximately 2,000 calories, according to Verywell Fit.