Gluten-Free Guide 2026
Navigating Dave's Hot Chicken with a gluten sensitivity or wheat allergy. Learn what to order and what to avoid.
Is Dave's Hot Chicken Gluten-Free?
Strictly speaking, Dave's Hot Chicken is **not a gluten-free certified facility**. Our legendary Nashville-style chicken is hand-breaded in a wheat-based flour, and we use shared fryers for almost all fried items. However, for those with non-celiac gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-conscious diet, there are ways to enjoy the Dave's experience.
| Menu Item | GF Status | Details & Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Tenders & Sliders | CONTAINS GLUTEN | Breading is 100% wheat-based flour. No GF breading available. |
| Dave's Not Chicken (Cauli) | CONTAINS GLUTEN | Even the cauliflower is breaded in the same wheat flour. |
| Crinkle Cut Fries | GF INGREDIENTS | Ingredients are GF, but cooked in a **shared fryer** with breaded chicken. |
| Kale Slaw | GLUTEN FREE | Naturally gluten-free. Fresh kale and vinegar-based dressing. |
| Mac & Cheese | CONTAINS GLUTEN | Pasta is made from wheat flour. |
| Dave's Sauce | GLUTEN FREE | Our signature sauce is safe for those avoiding gluten. |
| Milkshakes (Classic) | GLUTEN FREE | Vanilla and Strawberry are safe. **Avoid Oreo/Cookie mix-ins.** |
🚨 Celiac Disease Warning
Because Dave's Hot Chicken uses a high volume of flour in a fast-paced kitchen environment, **airborne flour and cross-contamination** on surfaces are significant risks. If you have Celiac disease or a severe wheat allergy, we strongly recommend consulting with the manager at your local location before ordering, as safety cannot be 100% guaranteed.
How to Order Gluten-Conscious
Minimize your gluten intake with these pro-tips.
1. Go "Naked"
Order your chicken without the bun or the sliced bread base. While the breading still has gluten, removing the bread components significantly reduces the total wheat load.
2. The "Slaw Swap"
Ask for extra Kale Slaw instead of the sliced bread. It’s naturally GF and provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to the spicy chicken.
3. Allergy Alert
Always inform the cashier of a "Wheat Allergy." They can mark your ticket to ensure the kitchen staff changes gloves and uses clean tongs where possible.