Greetings, Allison, and welcome to planDisney! As a mom of two little sailors, including a daughter who is very sensitive to food textures and smells, I understand your concern and am happy to help.
There isn't definitive information about whether chicken nuggets can be substituted for the chicken tenders typically offered on board. However, at multiple locations around the ship and in the main dining rooms, you should be able to request gluten-free chicken tenders, which seem to have a more crumbed texture rather than a crunchy coating. Just note that offerings may vary.
On several Disney cruises, I've also been able to request a vegan breaded "chicken" patty at dinner and through
room service. The breading was closer in texture to a chicken nugget, and my daughter liked it once I cut it into pieces.
If these options sound appealing to you, it may be a good idea to
fill out a Special Requests application under My Reservations at least three days before your cruise. I also highly recommend attending the Onboard Dining Session on embarkation day.
In my experience, the serving team is incredibly accommodating and genuinely eager to help. While you'll rotate through the dining venues during your sailing, the same serving team travels with you. On the first night, I recommend speaking with the Head Server about any dietary requests so they can note them for the following nights. You can even pre-order meals for the following days, such as the gluten-free chicken tenders.
I'm plant-based, and therefore well-versed in requesting special meals. I always appreciate how the Head Server reviews the menu with me and suggests off-menu options for the following night.
During our last cruise, my daughter happily ate buttered noodles and other pasta, as well as Mickey waffles, plain pizza, hot dogs, cereal, and similar foods. Fruit, yogurt, fries, and other simple options were also readily available.
You're also welcome to bring
nonperishable, factory-sealed snacks on board if you'd like to keep some safe foods in your room. Just keep in mind that they'd have to be consumed before debarking the ship on the last day of your cruise, or remain unopened. For us, it was helpful to have crackers, pretzels, oatmeal bars, applesauce pouches, and fruit snacks on hand.
Before we say goodbye, I wanted to share a helpful resource that may further support your planning efforts. The Disney Cruise Line website has a page with
information for Guests on the autism spectrum. It includes details about what to expect during the Mandatory Emergency Drill, youth activities, and more. There's a
great booklet that you can print out and bring for your daughter – it can help her become familiar with what she'll find on board, and it's fun to fill out.
Allison, I hope this information has provided some peace of mind. When in doubt about food options, don’t hesitate to ask your serving team for guidance – they truly want to help make your cruise as enjoyable as possible. If you think of any other questions, please reach out – we're always happy to help here at planDisney.
Smooth sailing ahead,
Kriss