Wondering if you can eat at Chick-fil-A on a gluten-free diet? The quick answer is: Yes! Check out this ultimate guide to find out more about Chick-fil-A gluten-free menu.
This post was originally published in May 2023. It was updated with new photos and instructions in February 2025.
If you’re craving a grilled chicken sandwich and fries, Chick-fil-a is a great option. They have plenty of gluten-free alternatives and naturally gluten-free menu items, including gluten free breads, ice cream, and fries.
It’s easy to see why Chick-fil-A is a favorite chain restaurant among those who eat gluten-free or have other food allergies!.
Good news! Lots of Chick-fil-A favorites are gluten-free. However, all food is prepared in a shared kitchen, so there’s always a risk of cross-contamination. Use your best judgement!.
Since all of our food is made by hand and the ingredients come from different suppliers, as well as the fact that we share cooking and preparation areas, we can’t promise that our restaurant or any menu item made there (other than the ones above) will be gluten-free. However, for our guests who are looking to minimize gluten intake, we suggest the following menu items.
Chick-fil-A does offer an individually packaged, certified gluten-free bun. Here’s an excerpt from the Chick-fil-A website:
Our gluten-free bun features a blend of gluten-free grains, including sorghum and amaranth. The bun arrives at our restaurants pre-packaged to prevent gluten cross-contact. The bun is no longer gluten-free, though, once it’s taken out of its packaging, since it might come into contact with gluten-containing foods in our kitchens. Therefore, we encourage guests to assemble their sandwich themselves.
Chik-fil-A’s original bun is not gluten-free. But you can request an alternative, gluten-free bun for your grilled chicken sandwiches or even a breakfast sandwich.
If you’re ordering on the app, select the grilled chicken club, and then deselect the multigrain brioche bun. Add the gluten-free bun instead. Then enjoy your gluten-free Chick-fil-A meal!.
Good news: MOST Chick-fil-A sauces are gluten-free! Yep, that includes the ever-popular Chick-fil-A sauce, Polynesian sauce, and BBQ sauce.
Chick-fil-A is a popular fast food chain that offers chicken sandwiches, nuggets, salads and more. For those avoiding gluten, a common question is – are Chick-fil-A’s chicken nuggets gluten-free? The answer is not completely straightforward due to potential cross-contact in the restaurant environment. However Chick-fil-A does offer some guidance for gluten-sensitive customers.
An Overview of Gluten
In grains like wheat, barley, and rye, you can find gluten. Gluten can cause an autoimmune reaction in people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and tiredness. This is why it’s so important for these people to stay away from gluten.
Chicken is naturally gluten-free. However, when dining out, there is a risk of cross-contact with gluten-containing ingredients. Even tiny amounts can cause issues for those who are highly sensitive.
Are Chick-fil-A Nuggets Safe?
According to Chick-fil-A, their grilled chicken nuggets do not contain gluten ingredients. However, they note that they do not operate gluten-free kitchens This means there is a chance of cross-contact through shared cooking surfaces, utensils, and preparation areas
Chicken nuggets at Chick-fil-A are not gluten-free because the batter and breading are made with wheat. It’s possible that only the grilled nuggets are safe, but be careful.
Tips for Ordering Gluten-Free at Chick-fil-A
If you need to avoid gluten, here are some tips for safely enjoying Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets and other menu options:
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Inform staff about your gluten allergy when ordering so they can take precautions to reduce cross-contact.
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Request fresh preparation with clean utensils and fresh gloves to minimize cross-contact with gluten.
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Avoid breaded items like chicken sandwiches and breaded nuggets, which contain gluten.
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Stick to grilled chicken entrees like grilled nuggets, grilled chicken sandwiches without the bun, grilled chicken salads and grilled chicken wraps in a gluten-free tortilla.
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Pair grilled chicken with gluten-free sides like fruit cups, kale cranberry salad, waffle fries or apple sauce.
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Use gluten-free condiments like Chick-fil-A sauce, Polynesian sauce, barbecue sauce and honey mustard sauce.
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Skip biscuits, buns, cookies and milkshakes which contain gluten.
With proper precautions, those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance may be able to safely enjoy grilled nuggets and other gluten-free menu options at Chick-fil-A. However, there is no guarantee due to the potential for cross-contact. Speak to your local restaurant about their protocols to assess your level of risk. When in doubt, err on the side of caution to avoid exposure to gluten.
Chick-fil-A’s Allergen and Gluten Policies
Chick-fil-A provides some helpful resources for gluten-sensitive customers on their website:
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They have a gluten and allergen guide that lists the menu items that contain gluten. This helps customers make informed choices.
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They sell individually packaged gluten-free buns as an alternative to their regular buns for sandwiches.
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There isn’t a gluten-free menu, but there are some items that are probably safer for people who are trying to avoid gluten. Among these are grilled chicken dishes, salads without croutons, waffle fries, and dressings that don’t contain gluten.
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They recommend that the packaged gluten-free bun be assembled by the customer rather than employees to prevent cross-contact after opening.
Chick-fil-A also notes that ingredients and preparation methods may vary slightly by location. So it’s always wise to check with your local restaurant about their specific gluten-free practices when ordering.
Other Tips for Safe Gluten-Free Dining
Avoiding gluten while dining out goes beyond just menu choices. Here are some other tips to stay safe:
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Research restaurant menus and policies online before visiting. Look for gluten-free menus or allergen guides.
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Time visits to avoid peak hours when kitchens are busier and cross-contact more likely.
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Start with a simple order like a grilled protein and plain vegetable before trying more complex menu items.
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Ask about how foods are prepped and cooked. Are separate fryers or cooking tools used?
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Request food prep surfaces, utensils and gloves be cleaned before handling your meal.
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Double check orders for accuracy and that requests were followed before eating.
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Be aware that just a small amount of cross-contact can trigger symptoms, so don’t risk it if unsure.
The Bottom Line
At Chick-fil-A, the grilled nuggets may be an option for gluten-free diners, but there is no guarantee they are 100% gluten-free. Those with celiac disease or high sensitivity should use caution and check with their local restaurant on proper handling procedures. With some adjustments like skipping breaded items, requesting fresh prep and using gluten-free buns and condiments, it may be possible to enjoy Chick-fil-A safely. But when in doubt, go with the safest gluten-free choices or consider opting for another restaurant. With vigilance and care, gluten-sensitive individuals can still savor the occasional fast food meal.
Gluten-Free Salads at Chick-fil-A
Like the sauces, all of the salad dressings at Chick-fil-A are gluten-free. So you can choose from any of them to safely enjoy!.
However, some of the salad toppings are not gluten-free, so it’s important to pay attention to the menu when customizing your salad order.
Here are a few tips for creating a Chick-fil-A gluten-free salad:
- Any salad: Instead of breaded chicken, ask for a grilled filet or grilled chicken nuggets.
- Cobb Salad: The gluten-filled onion rings on the Cobb Salad are not gluten-free. But since these come in their own boxes, you can just leave them out.
- Market Salad: The Grilled Market Salad’s granola is not gluten-free. Again, though, this topping comes in its own package, so you don’t have to use it.
- Southwest Salad: The gluten-free parts of the Southwest Salad are the seasoned tortilla strips and chili lime corn chips. Enjoy!.
You also might like this collection of gluten-free dinner recipes.
Gluten-Free Sides at Chick-fil-A
There are plenty of gluten-free sides you can order to round our your Chick-fil-A gluten-free meal.
Here’s a reference list of all Chick-fil-A gluten-free sides!
- French fries: Chick-fil-A makes its french fries in a special fryer. Since French fries are made with only potato, oil, and salt, they don’t have gluten in them. So you can eat these!
- Fruit cup: There are red and green apples, blueberries, orange segments, and strawberries in the fruit cup. It is completely gluten-free!.
- Side salad: The salad and all dressing options are gluten-free. Don’t forget to leave out the crispy bell peppers because they contain gluten. (Since they’re individually packaged, they’re easy to leave off. ).
- Everything in this kale crunch salad is gluten-free, even the toppings.
- Greek yogurt parfait: The berries and yogurt are gluten-free. The granola doesn’t have any gluten-containing ingredients. But there is a chance of cross-contamination because it isn’t made with gluten-free oats. The cookie crumbs topping isn’t gluten-free either.
- Waffle potato chips: These are gluten-free, just like many other potato chip brands.
- Buddy fruits apple sauce: If you have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance, you can eat this apple sauce without any problems.
Keep in mind, there are certain sides at Chick-fil-A that are NOT gluten-free, including:
- Chicken noodle soup
- Chicken tortilla soup
- Mac and cheese
Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets | Copycat Chick-Fil-A Version
FAQ
Is Chick-fil-A chicken nugget gluten-free?
According to Chick-fil-a’s website the grilled nuggets are Gluten free. http://www.chick-fil-a.com/Food/Allergen-Gluten-Diabetic.
Can celiac people eat Chick-fil-A?
Eating gluten-free on the go can be challenging, but Chick-fil-A offers a variety of gluten-free and gluten-friendly menu options for guests to enjoy.
Is there gluten in Chick-fil-Fries?
Yes, the fries at Chick-fil-A are naturally gluten-free. Because they’re fried in a separate fryer, there is no risk of cross-contamination with gluten-products. They are safe to eat on a gluten-free diet.
What fast food has gluten-free nuggets?
Chick-fil-A is the only major fast-food chain that offers gluten-free chicken nuggets. Their grilled chicken nuggets are prepared without gluten-containing ingredients and are a popular option for those with dietary restrictions.
Does Chick-fil-A have a gluten-free menu?
Chick-fil-A employees can take precautions, such as changing gloves and using clean utensils, upon request. While Chick-fil-A does not have an entirely gluten-free menu, they do offer several options that do not contain gluten ingredients. Here are some of the top choices: 1. Grilled Nuggets.
Are Chick-fil-A grilled chicken nuggets gluten-free?
This includes either bacon or sausage with egg and cheese – all naturally gluten-free ingredients. But remember they’re prepared in a shared facility. The main star of the Chick-fil-A kid’s meal that’s gluten-free is the Grilled Nuggets. But let me just say, this five-pack of grilled chicken nuggets is the perfect snack for all ages.
Are Chick-fil-A sandwiches gluten-free?
Breakfast Sandwiches: You can also get breakfast sandwiches on GF buns, such as the bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich or the sausage, egg, and cheese sandwich. Hash browns: Chick-fil-A hash browns are naturally gluten-free, just like the fries. Are Chick-fil-A’s fries naturally gluten-free? Yes, Chick-fil-A’s fries are naturally gluten-free.
Are Chick-fil-A salads gluten free?
Chick-fil-A offers two salads that are gluten free, and you can even get grilled chicken nuggets on top! Just make sure to again tell them you have an allergy, and make sure they don’t put the regular nuggets on your salad. Please note that according to Chick-fil-A’s allergen’s page, the crispy bell peppers contain gluten!.
Is Chick-fil-A sauce gluten-free?
Lovers of the popular Chick-fil-A sauce will be thrilled to know that it made the gluten-free list. Garden Herb Ranch Sauce and Siracha Sauce are the only two dipping sauces that aren’t on the gluten-free list. The latter contains wheat. *High risk of cross contact!.
Is Chick-fil-A Mac & Cheese gluten-free?
While delicious, Chick-fil-A’s mac & cheese contains wheat and is not gluten-free. 4. Some Desserts and Drinks: Most of Chick-fil-A’s drinks are gluten-free, but some seasonal milkshakes and desserts may have gluten in them. Always check the ingredient list or ask an employee to verify.