If you’ve ever grabbed a quick bite from Bojangles, you might have wondered about the oil they use to cook their famous fried chicken and biscuits. It’s a reasonable concern for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. After all, countless fast food chains rely on peanut oil for added flavor and texture, but does Bojangles use peanut oil, too?
Bojangles is known for its southern-style cooking, which involves a lot of deep-frying. So, it’s no surprise that many customers are curious about the kind of oil the restaurant uses. Peanut oil is a popular choice in many Southern kitchens, and it has a distinctive taste that some find irresistible. But for those with a peanut allergy, it could be extremely dangerous.
As someone who loves fried chicken but also has a peanut allergy, I decided to do some digging to find out once and for all whether Bojangles uses peanut oil in their cooking. If you’re in the same boat, or just curious about the fast-food industry’s use of peanut oil, stay tuned to find out what I uncovered.
Bojangles’ Menu
If you’re a fan of southern fried chicken, Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings. Founded in 1977 in Charlotte, North Carolina, Bojangles’ is now a beloved fast-food chain with over 750 locations primarily in the Southeastern United States. The chain boasts a signature flavor profile that’s known for its spicy and savory components, which can be found in its signature fried chicken, biscuits, and sides.
At Bojangles’, the menu is straightforward and focuses on chicken, biscuits, and sides. The bone-in chicken is the star of the show, with recipe tweaks that derive from a fusion of Southern-style seasoning and Cajun spices. The restaurant’s biscuits are equally recognized for their fluffy texture and buttery flavor. Pair the chicken and biscuits with a signature fixin’s side, which includes but is not limited to, mac ‘n cheese, green beans, and dirty rice.
Popular Dishes on Bojangles’ Menu
- Cajun Filet Biscuit: A crispy chicken fillet seasoned with smoky and savory Cajun spices, put between a toasted, buttery biscuit, and topped with Bojangles’ piquant Cajun sauce.
- Supreme Dinner: A two-piece chicken dinner with biscuit, choice of fixin’s side, and a drink.
- Seasoned Fries: Classic crinkle-cut fries seasoned with Bojangles’ special blend of seasonings for an extra kick of flavor.
Peanut Oil at Bojangles’
If you have a peanut allergy, you may be wondering if Bojangles’ uses peanut oil to fry its chicken. The answer is a definite yes. Bojangles’ proudly uses 100% pure peanut oil to cook its chicken, as well as, its biscuits and sides. It’s an ingredient choice that the restaurant claims gives its products a unique taste and texture.
| Product | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Fried Chicken | Seasoned chicken coated in breading with peanut oil and cooked until golden brown and crispy. |
| Biscuits | Flour, buttermilk, vegetable shortening, sugar, salt, and peanut oil for flavor and texture. |
| Sides | Vegetables, cheese, pasta, and rice with peanut oil used in cooking or, in some cases, as a flavoring agent. |
If you’re allergic to peanut oil, it’s best to avoid dining at Bojangles’ restaurants. However, the restaurant does note that it is willing to accommodate customers with food allergies or special dietary needs.
Types of Cooking Oil
Choosing the right type of cooking oil can make all the difference in the taste, healthfulness, and safety of your meals. Bojangles is known for its flavorful menu, and many people wonder whether they use peanut oil in their cooking. Here are some types of cooking oil you should know about.
- Canola oil: This oil has a high smoke point, making it perfect for frying, sautéing, or baking. It doesn’t have a strong flavor, so it won’t overpower other ingredients. Plus, it’s low in saturated fat and high in heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
- Olive oil: This oil is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine and has a fruity, slightly bitter flavor. It’s ideal for dressings, marinades, and sautéing. Olive oil contains healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, but it has a lower smoke point than some other oils.
- Coconut oil: This oil has a high smoke point and a unique aroma and flavor. It’s often used in Asian and Indian cuisine, as well as for baking and cooking at high heat. Coconut oil is high in saturated fat, but some studies suggest that the type of saturated fat it contains may not be as harmful as other types.
Smoke Point: What is it?
The smoke point is the temperature at which an oil starts to smoke and break down, creating harmful compounds. It’s important to use an oil with a high enough smoke point for your cooking method to avoid these compounds and a burnt taste. Here’s a table of common oils and their smoke points:
| Oil | Smoke Point (°F) |
|---|---|
| Canola | 400-450 |
| Olive | 350-410 |
| Coconut (refined) | 400 |
| Peanut | 450 |
As you can see, peanut oil has a high smoke point, which makes it a popular choice for deep-frying and high-heat cooking. However, if you have a peanut allergy, you’ll want to avoid foods cooked in peanut oil, such as some items on the Bojangles menu.
Peanut Allergy
For individuals with peanut allergies, eating at a restaurant that uses peanut oil can be a cause for concern. Bojangles is aware of the increasing prevalence of peanut allergies and prioritizes the safety of their customers.
- Bojangles uses a blend of oils that includes peanut oil and soybean oil.
- Individuals with severe peanut allergies should avoid consuming food that has been cooked in peanut oil, even if it has been highly refined.
- Bojangles’ website provides detailed ingredient lists and allergen information for customers to review before placing their orders.
It’s important to note that cross-contamination can occur in any kitchen. Bojangles takes steps to minimize this risk, such as using separate fryers for their chicken and fish products. Still, customers with severe peanut allergies should inform the staff of their allergy and ask for precautionary measures to be taken.
Here’s a table of common allergens and their presence in Bojangles’ menu items:
| Allergen | Menu Items |
|---|---|
| Peanuts | Bo-Berry Biscuits, Cinnamon Biscuits, Sweet Potato Pie, Roasted Nut Mix |
| Tree Nuts | Roasted Nut Mix |
| Wheat | All biscuits, Bo-Rounds, Bo-Berry Biscuits, Cinnamon Biscuits, Chicken Supremes, Chicken Fillets, Chicken Biscuits, Country Ham Biscuit, Cajun Filet Biscuit, Steak Biscuit, Sausage Biscuit, Bo-Tato Rounds, Gravy |
| Gluten | All biscuits, Bo-Rounds, Bo-Berry Biscuits, Cinnamon Biscuits, Chicken Supremes, Chicken Fillets, Chicken Biscuits, Country Ham Biscuit, Cajun Filet Biscuit, Steak Biscuit, Sausage Biscuit, Bo-Tato Rounds, Gravy |
| Fish | Cajun Filet Sandwich, Seasoned and Grilled Chicken Salad, Roasted Chicken Bites |
| Soy | Everything except Bojangles’ Dirty Rice and Mashed Potatoes ‘n Gravy |
| Milk | Dirty Rice, Mashed Potatoes ‘n Gravy, Green Beans, Grits, Mac ‘n Cheese, Cole Slaw, Buttermilk Biscuits. |
In summary, individuals with peanut allergies should exercise caution when dining at Bojangles. Bojangles’ menu items are cooked in a blend of oils that includes peanut oil, but the restaurant takes steps to minimize the risk of cross-contamination. Customers with severe peanut allergies should inform the staff and review ingredient lists and allergen information before placing their orders.
Nutritional Content of Peanut Oil
Peanut oil is a popular cooking oil that is made from the legumes of the peanut plant. It is used in various cooking applications, from frying to sautéing and even baking. One of the reasons why peanut oil has gained such popularity is because of its nutritional value.
- Calories: A tablespoon of peanut oil contains around 120 calories.
- Fat: Peanut oil is high in fat, with around 14 grams of fat in a tablespoon. However, most of this fat is unsaturated fat, which is considered healthy. Just like other plant-based oils, it contains no cholesterol.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Peanut oil contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps fight against free radicals that cause damage to cells. It also has small amounts of vitamin K, iron, and magnesium.
In addition, studies have shown that peanut oil may help reduce the risk of heart disease. This oil is also a good source of phytosterols, which are plant compounds that can help lower cholesterol levels.
It’s essential to note that like all other oils, peanut oil contains a high-calorie count and should be consumed in moderation. People with peanut allergies should avoid this oil altogether. If you’re allergic to peanuts or have a sensitivity to them, using another cooking oil is a safer option.
| Nutrient | Amount per tablespoon |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.3g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 0mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 0g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugars | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Vitamin E | 1.9mg (13% of DV) |
| Vitamin K | 0.9mcg (1% of DV) |
| Iron | 0.4mg (2% of DV) |
| Magnesium | 3.9mg (1% of DV) |
Overall, peanut oil is a nutritious cooking oil that can add flavor to your dishes and has numerous health benefits. Still, it’s essential to use it in moderation and be cautious of any allergies or sensitivities.
Other Fast Food Chains that Use Peanut Oil
Bojangles is not the only fast food chain that uses peanut oil. In fact, several popular fast food restaurants also rely on peanut oil for cooking their food. Here are a few examples:
- Five Guys – Five Guys is famous for their delicious burgers and fries, but they also use peanut oil to cook their food. They state on their website that their fries are cooked in “100% peanut oil.”
- Chick-fil-A – Chick-fil-A is known for their tasty chicken sandwiches, nuggets, and strips. According to their website, they use “100% refined peanut oil” to cook all of their breaded chicken products.
- Zaxby’s – Zaxby’s is a southern-style fast food chain that specializes in chicken. They use peanut oil to cook their chicken and their fries, which they claim gives their food a “unique flavor.”
- Bojangles – As we mentioned earlier, Bojangles also uses peanut oil to cook their food. They state on their website that they use “100% pure peanut oil” to fry their chicken and other menu items.
- Church’s Chicken – Church’s Chicken is another fast food chain that uses peanut oil to cook their food. According to their website, they use “100% peanut oil” to fry their chicken and other menu items.
The Benefits of Using Peanut Oil in Fast Food Restaurants
While some people may have concerns about peanut allergies or the environmental impact of using peanut oil, there are several benefits to using this oil in fast food restaurants:
First, peanut oil has a high smoke point, which means it can be heated to high temperatures without breaking down or burning. This makes it an ideal oil for frying foods like chicken and fries.
Second, peanut oil has a neutral taste and odor, which means it won’t overpower the flavor of the food being cooked in it. This allows the natural flavors of the food to shine through without the oil imparting an unwanted taste or smell.
Finally, peanut oil is a relatively healthy oil compared to other cooking oils. It is low in saturated fat and high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help reduce blood cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.
If you are concerned about peanut allergies or the environmental impact of using peanut oil, it is always best to check with the fast food restaurant directly to inquire about their cooking methods and ingredients.
| Fast Food Chain | Type of Oil Used |
|---|---|
| Five Guys | 100% peanut oil |
| Chick-fil-A | 100% refined peanut oil |
| Zaxby’s | peanut oil |
| Bojangles | 100% pure peanut oil |
| Church’s Chicken | 100% peanut oil |
Overall, while some people may have concerns about the use of peanut oil in fast food restaurants, there are several benefits to using this oil for cooking and frying. Several popular chains like Five Guys, Chick-fil-A, and Bojangles all rely on peanut oil to create their delicious menu items. If you have concerns about peanut allergies or the environmental impact of using peanut oil, it’s always a good idea to check with the restaurant directly to get more information.
Alternative Cooking Oils
In today’s health-conscious society, many people are seeking alternatives to traditional cooking oils. Peanut oil, which is used by Bojangles in their cooking, has been a popular choice among chefs for its high smoking point and neutral flavor. However, for those with peanut allergies or preferences for other oils, there are plenty of viable alternatives.
- Canola oil: With a light, mild taste and a smoking point of 400 degrees Fahrenheit, canola oil is a versatile choice for cooking and baking.
- Grapeseed oil: This oil has a high smoking point of 420 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for frying and sautéing. Its neutral taste also makes it a great option for baking.
- Coconut oil: Coconut oil has gained popularity in recent years for its health benefits, including its high levels of medium-chain triglycerides. It has a distinct coconut taste and a smoking point of 350 degrees Fahrenheit, which makes it better for low-heat cooking and baking.
Other alternative cooking oils include avocado oil, sesame oil, and sunflower oil. Before making the switch to a new cooking oil, be sure to consider its taste, smoking point, and any potential allergies or intolerances.
For those concerned about the presence of peanut oil in Bojangles’ cooking, it is important to note that the chain is transparent about its use of the ingredient and provides information and resources for customers with peanut allergies. If you have a peanut allergy or preference for a different cooking oil, don’t be afraid to inquire with the staff about your options. There are plenty of delicious alternative oils to choose from.
Menu Items at Bojangles’ that Contain Peanuts
Bojangles’ is famous for its southern-style cooking and original recipe fried chicken. However, for customers with peanut allergies, it’s crucial to know which menu items contain peanuts. Listed below are the Bojangles’ menu items that contain peanuts.
- Bo-Berry Biscuits: These sweet breakfast treats are made with blueberries and a touch of cinnamon and topped with a sweet vanilla icing and chopped peanuts.
- Peanut Butter Fudge Pie: A delicious dessert option made with creamy peanut butter filling and whipped cream, topped with chopped peanuts and a chocolate drizzle.
- Peanut Cluster Candy: A handmade confection of milk chocolate with crunchy peanuts.
For those with peanut allergies, it’s important to note that Bojangles’ fries its chicken in a blend of oils that do not include peanut oil. However, the restaurant does not guarantee that their food is completely free of peanut allergens as peanuts are present in their kitchen and may come into contact with other food items. For further information on specific allergens in their menu items, customers are advised to speak to a staff member.
For those with peanut allergies, it’s important to note that Bojangles’ fries its chicken in a blend of oils that do not include peanut oil. However, the restaurant does not guarantee that their food is completely free of peanut allergens as peanuts are present in their kitchen and may come into contact with other food items. For further information on specific allergens in their menu items, customers are advised to speak to a staff member.
| Menu Item | Allergens |
|---|---|
| Bo-Berry Biscuit | Wheat, Milk, Egg, Soy, Peanuts |
| Macaroni and Cheese | Wheat, Milk |
| Peanut Butter Fudge Pie | Wheat, Milk, Egg, Soy, Peanuts |
| Peanut Cluster Candy | Milk, Peanuts, Soy |
| Peanuts (Snack) | Peanuts |
Customers with peanut allergies should be cautious when ordering menu items containing peanuts. Though Bojangles’ utilizes oil blends that do not contain peanut oil, cross-contamination may occur in the kitchen, causing even non-peanut menu items to come into contact with peanuts.
FAQs: Does Bojangles use peanut oil?
1. Does Bojangles fry their chicken in peanut oil?
Yes, Bojangles uses 100% pure peanut oil to fry their chicken and other menu items.
2. Are Bojangles biscuits cooked with peanut oil?
Yes, Bojangles biscuits are made with peanut oil.
3. Do Bojangles fries contain peanuts?
No, Bojangles fries do not contain peanuts, but they are cooked in the same peanut oil used for frying chicken and other items.
4. Is there a risk of peanut allergy for customers who eat at Bojangles?
Yes, there is a risk of peanut allergy for customers who eat at Bojangles due to the use of peanut oil in cooking. Customers with peanut allergies should consult with their doctor before eating at Bojangles.
5. Can customers request to have their food cooked in a different oil?
No, Bojangles only uses peanut oil for cooking and does not offer alternative oil options.
6. Are there any menu items at Bojangles that do not contain peanut oil?
No, all menu items at Bojangles are cooked in peanut oil, including sides and desserts.
7. Does Bojangles provide information about peanut allergy on their menu?
Yes, Bojangles includes a warning on their menu about the use of peanut oil and the potential for cross-contamination for customers with peanut allergies.
Closing: Thanks for Stopping By Bojangles
We hope that our FAQs about the usage of peanut oil at Bojangles were informative. We take pride in using 100% pure peanut oil in all of our cooking to create the signature taste our customers love. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to ask our team members. Thanks again for visiting Bojangles and we hope to see you again soon!