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
Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley and rye. For individuals with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can trigger an autoimmune reaction and cause symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and fatigue That’s why it’s crucial for these individuals to avoid gluten in their diets
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
The breaded nuggets at Chick-fil-A contain wheat in the batter and breading, so they are not gluten-free. Only the grilled nuggets may potentially be safe, but with caution.
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 offer an allergen and gluten guide detailing which menu items 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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While not a gluten-free restaurant, they do list some menu items that are likely lower risk for those avoiding gluten. This includes grilled chicken entrees, salads without croutons, waffle fries and gluten-free dressings.
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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: Ask for a grilled filet or grilled chicken nuggets instead of breaded chicken options.
- Cobb Salad: The crispy bell peppers on the Cobb Salad are not gluten-free. But since these are individually packaged, you can simply leave them out.
- Market Salad: The granola in the Grilled Market Salad is not gluten-free. But again, this topping is individually packaged, so you can just leave it off.
- Southwest Salad: The seasoned tortilla strips and chili lime pepitas in the Southwest Salad are gluten-free. 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!
- Waffle potato fries: Chick-fil-A waffle fries are made in a dedicated fryer. And since French fries are naturally gluten-free (when made with only potato, oil and salt), these are safe to eat!
- Fruit cup: The fruit cup contains red and green apples, blueberries, orange segments, and strawberries. It is completely gluten-free!
- Side salad: The salad and all dressing options are gluten-free. Just remember to skip the crispy bell peppers, which are not gluten-free. (Since they’re individually packaged, they’re easy to leave off.)
- Kale crunch salad: Everything in this salad (including toppings) is gluten-free!
- Greek yogurt parfait: The berries and yogurt are gluten-free. The granola doesn’t have any gluten-containing ingredients. But since it isn’t made with gluten-free oats, there is a risk of cross-contamination. The cookie crumbs topping isn’t gluten-free either.
- Waffle potato chips: As with many brands of potato chips, these are gluten-free!
- Buddy fruits apple sauce: This apple sauce is gluten-free and safe to eat if you have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
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?
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: Like the fries, Chick-fil-A hash browns are naturally gluten-free! Are the fries at Chick-fil-A gluten-free? Yes, the fries at Chick-fil-A 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. The only two dipping sauces missing from the gluten-free list are the Garden Herb Ranch Sauce and Siracha Sauce. 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 Beverages and Desserts While most of Chick-fil-A’s drinks are gluten-free, some seasonal milkshakes and desserts may contain gluten ingredients. Always check the ingredient list or ask an employee to verify.