Is El Pollo Loco Gluten Free?

Is El Pollo Loco Gluten Free?

El Pollo Loco offers some gluten-free options on their menu, including their flame-grilled chicken and several side dishes. However, not all items at El Pollo Loco are gluten-free, so customers with gluten sensitivities should carefully review the menu and consult with staff about specific ingredients and preparation methods.

TL;DR

El Pollo Loco offers some gluten-free options on their menu, including their flame-grilled chicken and several side dishes. However, not all items at El Pollo Loco are gluten-free, so customers with gluten sensitivities should carefully review the menu and consult with staff about specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Quick Tips

1

Lean protein: Their signature chicken is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.

2

Lower in calories: Many menu items are lower in calories compared to traditional fast-food options.

3

Grilled, not fried: The chicken is flame-grilled, reducing the amount of added fats compared to fried alternatives.

# In This Article

3 sections

Quick navigation to each section of this article:

1 Benefits of El Pollo Loco

Lean protein: Their signature chicken is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.

Jump
2 Who should avoid El Pollo Loco

People with severe chicken or poultry allergies

Jump
3 Gluten Free Alternatives

Here are five gluten-free alternatives to El Pollo Loco, along with short descriptions:

Jump

Benefits of El Pollo Loco

Benefits of El Pollo Loco
Lean protein: Their signature chicken is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Lower in calories: Many menu items are lower in calories compared to traditional fast-food options.
Grilled, not fried: The chicken is flame-grilled, reducing the amount of added fats compared to fried alternatives.
Customizable options: Customers can choose healthier sides and toppings to create more nutritious meals.
Fresh ingredients: El Pollo Loco emphasizes using fresh ingredients in their dishes.
Vegetable options: Salads and vegetable sides are available, increasing nutrient intake.
Whole grains: Some menu items include whole grain options like rice and tortillas.
Lower sodium options: Compared to some fast-food chains, El Pollo Loco offers items with lower sodium content.
Avocado: Many dishes include avocado, which is a source of healthy fats and nutrients.
Portion control: Some menu items come in smaller portions, helping with calorie management.Remember that the overall healthiness of a meal at El Pollo Loco depends on individual menu choices and portion sizes.

Who should avoid El Pollo Loco

Who should avoid El Pollo Loco
People with severe chicken or poultry allergies
Individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease (unless choosing from their gluten-free options)
Those with severe nut allergies (some dishes may contain or be processed in facilities with nuts)
People following strict vegan or vegetarian diets (as most menu items contain meat)
Individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance (many dishes contain cheese or dairy products)
Those on low-sodium diets (fast food tends to be high in sodium)
People with corn allergies (corn products are common in Mexican-style cuisine)
Individuals with specific religious dietary restrictions that prohibit certain meats or food combinations
Those on strict low-carb or ketogenic diets (many menu items are high in carbohydrates)
People with specific food intolerances or sensitivities to common ingredients used in Mexican-style cuisine
Individuals with severe soy allergies (some products may contain soy or be processed in facilities with soy)It’s important to note that El Pollo Loco does offer some healthier options and accommodations for certain dietary needs. Always check the menu and ask staff about ingredients if you have specific concerns or dietary requirements.
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Gluten Free Alternatives

Here are five gluten-free alternatives to El Pollo Loco, along with short descriptions:

Gluten Free Alternatives
Chipotle Mexican Grill: A fast-casual restaurant chain offering customizable burritos, bowls, tacos, and salads. Most of their menu items are gluten-free, and they provide a detailed allergen menu for customers.
Chick-fil-A: While primarily known for their chicken sandwiches, Chick-fil-A offers gluten-free options such as grilled chicken nuggets, salads, and their Grilled Chicken Cool Wrap (when ordered with a gluten-free wrap).
Zoe's Kitchen: A Mediterranean-inspired fast-casual chain with numerous gluten-free options, including kabobs, salads, and Mediterranean bowls. They clearly label gluten-free items on their menu.
Nando's PERi-PERi: An international chain specializing in Portuguese-style flame-grilled chicken. Most of their chicken dishes are gluten-free, and they offer a variety of sides and salads that are safe for gluten-sensitive diners.
Pollo Tropical: A Caribbean-inspired fast-food chain offering citrus-marinated grilled chicken, rice bowls, and tropical sides. Many of their menu items are naturally gluten-free, and they provide an allergen menu for easy reference.These alternatives offer a variety of flavors and cuisines while catering to gluten-free diets, providing options similar to El Pollo Loco's chicken-centric menu.

Health Information

? Frequently Asked Questions

4 questions
1 Does grilled chicken have gluten?
Grilled chicken itself does not contain gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, which are not present in plain chicken meat. However, it's important to be cautious about marinades, seasonings, or sauces that may be used on grilled chicken, as these could potentially contain gluten. Always check ingredient labels or ask about preparation methods if you have gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
2 Is chicken Asada gluten free?
Chicken asada itself is typically gluten-free. The marinade for chicken asada usually consists of ingredients like citrus juices, herbs, and spices, which do not contain gluten. However, cross-contamination can occur during preparation if the same surfaces or utensils are used for gluten-containing foods. It's always best to check with the specific restaurant or recipe to ensure the chicken asada is truly gluten-free.
3 What oil do they use at El Pollo Loco?
El Pollo Loco primarily uses canola oil for cooking their chicken and other menu items. This oil is chosen for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, which makes it suitable for grilling and frying. Canola oil is also relatively low in saturated fat compared to some other cooking oils. El Pollo Loco has stated that they do not use peanut oil in their restaurants.
4 How healthy is El Pollo Loco chicken?
El Pollo Loco chicken is generally considered a healthier fast food option. It is fire-grilled rather than fried, which reduces the fat content. The chicken is also marinated in a blend of herbs, spices, and citrus juices, adding flavor without excessive calories. However, as with any restaurant food, portion sizes and added sides can impact the overall healthiness of the meal.
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Our Expert

Drs. Ilse van Asperen, Orthomolecular Therapist and Nutritional Coach

Drs. Ilse van Asperen

Orthomolecular Therapist, Nutritional Coach & Professional Editor

Drs. Ilse van Asperen is a medical doctor specialising in orthomolecular therapy and nutritional coaching. With a background in public and clinical health research and management, she focuses on addressing the root causes of health issues through diet, gut health, and stress reduction. As a professional editor for Little Helpers, she reviews all gluten-free content to ensure accuracy, safety, and scientific credibility. Read more on Drs. Ilse van Asperen's own website

Our Sources

The information on this page is based on reputable health and nutrition organisations, ensuring accuracy and reliability for anyone following a gluten-free diet. For further details, see the sources below.

Sources

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