Our Guide To Vegan Options At Zaxby’s

Zaxby’s is one of America’s largest fast-food chains, with over 900 locations across the southern United States. 

Best known for its chicken wings and fingers (even its logo features a chicken!), many vegans assume there’s nothing on the menu for them.

But is that really the case? Let’s break down all the vegan-friendly options Zaxby’s has to offer. 

Whether you’re heading there with friends or stopping by for a quick bite, here’s everything you can enjoy as a vegan.

Vegan Sides and Meal Options at Zaxby’s

Zaxby’s is a chicken-focused fast-food chain, so vegan options are limited. However, there are still a few sides and extras that vegans can enjoy. 

While you won’t find a dedicated plant-based entrée, you can create a small meal by combining these options.

Here’s what vegans can order at Zaxby’s:

1. Crinkle-Cut Fries

Zaxby’s crinkle-cut fries are vegan and are a popular choice among plant-based customers. They are seasoned and fried to crispy perfection. However, there’s one important note:

• Cross-Contamination: Fries may be cooked in the same fryer as meat products. This varies by location, so be sure to ask your server if they use separate fryers for fries.

If cross-contamination isn’t a dealbreaker for you, Zaxby’s fries are a tasty, filling option.

2. Side Salad (Without Cheese or Croutons)

A simple and fresh option, Zaxby’s side salad is vegan-friendly if you order it without cheese or croutons. You can dress it up with one of their vegan salad dressings (see below) to add flavor.

• Vegan Dressings:
  • Lite Vinaigrette
  • Citrus Vinaigrette

While this salad is meant as a side, you can combine it with other options to create a light, plant-based meal.

3. Celery Sticks (Without Ranch Dressing)

Zaxby’s offers celery sticks as a side served in a cute little basket. They are a refreshing, crunchy option, though typically served with ranch dressing, which is not vegan. 

Simply ask for the celery without the ranch or substitute it with one of Zaxby’s vegan-friendly sauces for dipping.

4. Texas Toast (Check for Garlic Spread Ingredients)

Zaxby’s Texas Toast is a soft, buttery-style garlic bread served as a side. However, whether it is vegan depends on how it’s prepared:

• According to Zaxby’s allergen menu, the Texas Toast does not list dairy or eggs as ingredients.
• However, the status of the garlic spread is unclear—it may contain non-vegan additives.

Pro Tip: To be safe, order the Texas Toast plain (without the garlic spread). Some vegans feel comfortable with the standard version, but it’s best to ask your server for clarification.

Vegan Sauces at Zaxby’s

The good news for vegans at Zaxby’s is that there’s no shortage of vegan-friendly sauces. You can drizzle these on your salad, dip your fries or celery sticks, or enjoy them with your Texas Toast.

• Wimpy Signature Sauce (mild and tangy)
• Tongue Torch Spicy Sauce (medium heat with a kick)
• Nuclear Sauce (extra hot and fiery)
• Insane Sauce (extremely spicy—proceed with caution!)
• Sweet and Spicy Sauce (sweet heat with a sticky glaze)
• Teriyaki Sauce (sweet, soy-based flavor)
• BBQ Sauce (classic, smoky barbecue taste)

With so many dipping options, you can make your sides more flavorful and satisfying.

What’s Not Vegan at Zaxby’s?

Here are some common menu items that may seem plant-based but are not vegan-friendly:

• Fried Pickles: Unfortunately, Zaxby’s popular fried pickle side dish is off-limits for vegans. The batter used to coat the pickles contains eggs, making it unsuitable for a plant-based diet.
• Coleslaw: Contains egg-based mayo.
• Ranch Dressing: Made with eggs and dairy.
• Chicken Fingerz and Wings: Zaxby’s specialty—definitely not vegan!

Final Thoughts

Zaxby’s isn’t the most vegan-friendly fast-food chain, but you can still enjoy a small meal by combining sides like fries, celery sticks, and Texas Toast with their many vegan-friendly sauces.

The side salad with a vegan vinaigrette can add some freshness to your meal.

Although the options are limited, Zaxby’s is a reasonable choice if you’re dining with friends or family who love their chicken. We hope Zaxby’s expands its menu in the future to include more vegan options!

Frequently Asked Questions