Chick-Fil-A Fries: Are They Actually Gluten Free?
Chick-fil-A is a well-loved fast food spot. It’s famous for tasty chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, and more menu choices.
Chick-fil-A is a well-loved fast food spot. It’s famous for tasty chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, and more menu choices.
One question often arises: whether or not Chick-fil-A’s fries are gluten-free. Well, let’s find out.
Are Fries at Chick-fil-A Gluten-Free?
Chick-fil-A’s fries may not be gluten-free [1]. They can be cooked in the same fryer as gluten items like chicken nuggets and sandwiches.
This raises the risk of cross-contamination. It can trigger reactions in people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Chick-fil-A has gluten-free choices. You can get a grilled chicken sandwich without the bun. They also offer a side salad without croutons.
It’s essential for customers with gluten sensitivities to exercise caution when ordering at Chick-fil-A and communicate their needs with the restaurant staff.
What Are Other Gluten-Free Options Available At Chick-Fil-A?
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich (without the bun) – The grilled chicken sandwich is made with marinated and grilled chicken breast and is served with lettuce, tomato, and cheese. Without the bun, it is a delicious and satisfying gluten-free option.
- Grilled Chicken Cool Wrap (without the tortilla) – This wrap includes sliced grilled chicken, lettuce, red cabbage, carrots, and cheese, all in a flaxseed flatbread. Without the tortilla, it is a tasty and healthy gluten-free option.
- Side Salad (without croutons) – The side salad is made with mixed greens, carrots, and grape tomatoes and is a great gluten-free option.
- Fruit Cup – Chick-fil-A’s fruit cup is a delicious and refreshing gluten-free side option. It includes a mix of fresh fruit, such as apples, strawberries, and blueberries.
- Milkshakes – Chick-fil-A’s milkshakes [2] are gluten-free. They come in several flavors: vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.
How Does Chick-Fil-A Provide Allergen Information To Their Customers?
Chick-fil-A shares allergen info on its website and in restaurants. This helps customers make smart choices.
They have an allergen guide that lists the ingredients in each menu item and information on common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts.
“French fries kill more people than guns and sharks, yet nobody’s afraid of French fries.”
– Robert Kiyosaki, Author
The guide is available on their website and can be requested in the restaurant. In addition, Chick-fil-A’s restaurant menu boards indicate which items contain common allergens.
Customers can also speak with the restaurant staff if they have any questions or concerns about allergens.
Cross-Contamination Concerns
Cross-contamination is a big worry for those who eat gluten-free, especially at fast-food places like Chick-fil-A. Even gluten-free ingredients can be risky if shared equipment is used.
At many places, Chick-fil-A cooks its waffle fries in separate fryers. However, practices may differ. In some kitchens, fryers might be shared with breaded chicken, which can transfer gluten particles.
Here’s a quick look:
| Risk Factor | Details |
| Shared Fryers | Possible gluten residue |
| Separate Fryers | Safer option for celiacs |
| Staff Training | Varies by location |
Many gluten-sensitive diners say they’ve had good experiences with the fries, but it’s wise to ask staff about their specific kitchen setup. When in doubt, speak up—your health is worth the extra question.
The Gluten-Free Certification Process
When a product is labeled gluten-free certified, it means it’s been tested and verified to meet strict gluten limits, usually under 20 parts per million. This gives peace of mind to those with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivities.
Chick-fil-A’s waffle fries come from naturally gluten-free potatoes and oil. But they are not officially certified as gluten-free. This is mainly because cross-contact can happen in busy kitchens.
Some other fast-food chains do offer certified gluten-free menu items, giving diners more options.
| Chain | Certified Gluten-Free Items |
| Chick-fil-A | None officially certified |
| Wendy’s | Some baked potatoes |
| Chipotle | Many ingredients certified |
| Five Guys | Fries cooked in dedicated oil |
If you’re highly sensitive, always check with staff about fryer use and preparation practices. Certification might not be on the label, but asking questions can help you eat with confidence.
| Related: Longhorn Gluten-Free Menu Items & Guide (Updated) |
What Should Customers With Gluten Sensitivities Do When Ordering?
Customers with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease should inform the restaurant staff of their allergy or sensitivity when ordering. They should also ask about gluten-free options and how the restaurant handles cross-contamination.
It’s essential to exercise caution when dining out and to communicate any concerns or needs with the restaurant staff.
FAQs on Chick-Fil-A Fries
Can celiacs eat at Chick-fil-A?
Celiacs can eat at Chick-fil-A, but they should exercise caution and communicate their needs with the restaurant staff. Chick-fil-A has many gluten-free choices. You can get grilled chicken sandwiches without the bun. They also offer grilled chicken cool wraps without the tortilla. Side salads are available without croutons, and you can enjoy fruit cups too. However, there is a risk of cross-contamination in the kitchen, so it’s essential to ask how the restaurant handles allergen concerns and communicate any needs with the staff.
Are Chick-fil-A fries vegan?
Chick-fil-A’s waffle fries are not vegan, as they are cooked in peanut oil and contain natural beef flavoring derived from milk.
Final Thoughts
Chick-fil-A’s fries aren’t gluten-free. They share a fryer with gluten foods, so there’s a risk of cross-contamination. The restaurant has gluten-free choices. You can get a grilled chicken sandwich without the bun or a side salad without croutons.
Chick-fil-A has strict protocols to prevent cross-contamination in their kitchens. They share allergen info on their website and in restaurants. This helps customers make smart choices.
If you have gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, be careful when ordering at Chick-fil-A. Make sure to tell the staff about your needs.
Customers with gluten sensitivities can still enjoy tasty food at Chick-fil-A by taking the right precautions.
References:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/gluten-free-diet/art-20048530
- https://www.foodnetwork.com/grilling/grilling-central-burgers-and-hot-dogs/articles/50-milkshakes
