El Pollo Loco has a menu for those sensitive to gluten. It features fresh, flavorful items with citrus-marinated fire-grilled chicken. Along with freshly made entrees, sides, and salsas that avoid wheat gluten. However, they warn of potential cross-contact with gluten because of shared spaces in the kitchen. This is crucial for anyone, especially those with celiac disease, to consider before dining.
The FDA says “gluten free” means less than 20 ppm of gluten. For people with celiac disease, even a tiny amount of wheat gluten can be dangerous. El Pollo Loco doesn’t claim its foods are completely free of wheat gluten, due to the risk of cross-contact. Their gluten-free menu uses the latest information from food suppliers as of 12/12/2024.
Introduction to El Pollo Loco’s Commitment to Gluten-Free Options
El Pollo Loco recognizes the growing need for gluten-free foods. This is due to more people learning about gluten sensitivity and celiac disease. The FDA says gluten-free foods must have less than 20 parts per million of gluten. El Pollo Loco doesn’t say everything is gluten-free. But, it offers many choices without ingredients that contain wheat gluten. The company is also open about how they prepare their food.
Many people must understand gluten sensitivity, and El Pollo Loco is ahead in meeting their needs. They have a big team, with over 4,000 employees, working at more than 495 locations across the country. They aim to provide a good dining experience for those avoiding gluten. Customers who avoid gluten prefer El Pollo Loco. They enjoy a wide range of gluten-free options like flame-grilled chicken, salads, sides, and bowls.
El Pollo Loco’s big move is using corn tortillas instead of ones made with flour. This greatly increases their gluten-free choices. They have a detailed allergen guide to help guests choose wisely. This approach shows El Pollo Loco’s strong commitment to safe eating for those avoiding gluten.
Overview of El Pollo Loco Gluten-Free Menu
El Pollo Loco has upgraded its menu to include gluten-free choices. They aim to serve customers in need of gluten-free options. Despite striving for less than 20 parts per million (ppm) gluten, El Pollo Loco can’t promise completely wheat gluten-free meals. The use of shared equipment might lead to gluten cross-contact.
This overview shows El Pollo Loco’s efforts in accommodating dietary needs. Even with these steps, they offer a broad range of gluten-free options.
People highly sensitive to gluten or those with celiac disease should be careful. It’s wise to discuss your dietary needs with El Pollo Loco staff if you have concerns. Still, El Pollo Loco presents various appealing gluten-free choices.
| Item Name | Item | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fire-Grilled Chicken | 2 pieces | 320 | $5.99 |
| Chicken Avocado Bowl | 1 bowl | 450 | $6.99 |
| Street Corn | 1 side | 220 | $2.49 |
| Pinto Beans | 1 side | 150 | $1.89 |
| Broccoli | 1 side | 60 | $1.79 |
| Mixed Vegetables | 1 cup | 90 | $2.19 |
| Chile Limón Chicken | 4 pieces | 640 | $8.99 |
| BBQ Black Beans | 1 side | 160 | $1.99 |
| Avocado Salsa | 1 serving | 25 | $0.99 |
| Baja Shrimp Tacos | 2 tacos | 250 | $4.79 |
| Cilantro Lime Rice | 1 cup | 210 | $2.19 |
| Grilled Chicken Salad | 1 serving | 430 | $7.49 |
| Chicken Tortilla Soup | 1 bowl | 220 | $3.99 |
| Charro Beans | 1 cup | 140 | $2.19 |
| Pollo Fit Bowl | 1 bowl | 320 | $6.99 |
Fire-Grilled Bone-In Chicken: A Gluten-Friendly Choice
El Pollo Loco offers amazing gluten-friendly chicken options. You can choose from flavorful Chicken Breast, tender Chicken Thigh, juicy Chicken Leg, or the beloved Chicken Wing. These choices meet gluten-friendly standards and satisfy different tastes.
El Pollo Loco’s chicken is marinated carefully, packing it with flavor without gluten. Yet, it’s cooked on equipment used for all foods. So, people worried about cross-contamination should remember this. Still, El Pollo Loco works hard to ensure their chicken options are safe and gluten-friendly.
Here’s a quick look at some nutritional facts:
| Item Name | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Protein | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fire-Grilled Chicken Breast | 200 | 8g | 2.5g | 34g | 820mg |
| Fire-Grilled Chicken Thigh | 150 | 9g | 2g | 16g | 390mg |
| Fire-Grilled Chicken Wing | 90 | 6g | 1.5g | 8g | 265mg |
| Fire-Grilled Chicken Leg | 100 | 5g | 1.5g | 12g | 350mg |
El Pollo Loco is well-loved for its gluten-friendly chicken. They’ve gotten 111 ratings for their fire-grilled chicken. With a food rating of 95%, even keto dieters and those sensitive to gluten can enjoy tasty, quality meals guilt-free.
Gluten-Free Bowl Options at El Pollo Loco
El Pollo Loco is proud to offer gluten-free bowls. Choices like the Original Pollo Bowl®, Double Chicken Bowl, Grande Avocado Chicken Bowl, and Street Corn Chicken Pollo Bowl®. These options are perfect for those on a gluten-free diet.
El Pollo Loco makes sure its bowls are free of wheat gluten. This makes them perfect for customers avoiding gluten. Each bowl is filled with fresh ingredients and cooked carefully to give a delicious gluten-free meal.
| Item Name | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Original Pollo Bowl® | 610 | $7.49 |
| Double Chicken Bowl | 620 | $8.99 |
| Grande Avocado Chicken Bowl | 670 | $8.99 |
| Street Corn Chicken Pollo Bowl® | 680 | $8.49 |
El Pollo Loco doesn’t have gluten-free kitchens. So, there might be a risk of cross-contamination. Still, there’s a lot of gluten-free menu items to choose from.
| Item Name | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original Pollo Bowl® | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Double Chicken Bowl | No | Yes | None |
| Grande Avocado Chicken Bowl | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Street Corn Chicken Pollo Bowl® | No | Yes | Dairy |
Customers love the gluten-free bowls at El Pollo Loco. They’re available in many cities, including Paso Robles and San Jose. El Pollo Loco ensures that eating gluten-free can still be delicious and satisfying.
If you’re gluten-free, El Pollo Loco offers many tasty options. They’re committed to keeping their food delicious and healthy.
FAQs
1.
Can I customize my Original Pollo Bowl® to make it keto-friendly?
You can change the Original Pollo Bowl® to fit a keto diet. Just swap out rice for veggies or another keto option.
2.
Is there a risk of gluten cross-contamination in the gluten-free bowls?
There’s a cross-contamination risk since there are no gluten-free kitchens. If you’re very sensitive to gluten, talk to the staff about how food is prepared.
3.
What is the most popular gluten-free bowl at El Pollo Loco?
The Original Pollo Bowl® is a big hit. Its mix of flavors and ingredients makes it a favorite among gluten-free customers.
4.
Are there dairy-free options available in the gluten-free bowls?
Yes, you can customize some bowls to avoid dairy. Always check with the restaurant staff for dietary needs.
5.
Are all El Pollo Loco locations consistent with their gluten-free options?
Most locations have the same gluten-free options, providing a consistent dining experience. But it’s a good idea to check with your local El Pollo Loco for any menu differences.
Exploring El Pollo Loco’s Gluten-Free Tacos
Taco lovers, rejoice! El Pollo Loco offers delicious options like the Taco al Carbon and the Shredded Chicken Crunchy Taco. These are made without gluten, making them safe for those with sensitivities to enjoy.
El Pollo Loco has worked hard to meet customer dietary needs, especially in their locations across California, Texas, and Utah. The Taco al Carbon features fire-grilled chicken in gluten-free tortillas. The Shredded Chicken Crunchy Taco also offers a unique, gluten-free crunch.
While El Pollo Loco strives for safe food, customers should be mindful of potential cross-contamination. Thanks to their efforts, they boast a 92% satisfaction rate from customer reviews.
| Item Name | Item | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taco al Carbon | Chicken | 180 | $2.99 |
| Shredded Chicken Crunchy Taco | Chicken | 150 | $2.69 |
| Chicken Avocado Taco | Chicken | 320 | $3.49 |
| Street Taco | Chicken | 170 | $1.99 |
| Fish Taco | Fish | 210 | $3.59 |
El Pollo Loco’s gluten-free options, like Taco al Carbon and Shredded Chicken Crunchy Taco, show their commitment to quality and customer happiness. Diners looking for gluten-free meals will find delicious choices here.
| Item Name | Item | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taco al Carbon | Chicken | Yes | Yes | None |
| Shredded Chicken Crunchy Taco | Chicken | No | Yes | None |
| Chicken Avocado Taco | Chicken | Yes | Yes | None |
| Street Taco | Chicken | Yes | Yes | None |
| Fish Taco | Fish | No | No | Fish |
If you’re looking for keto-friendly and gluten-free meals, El Pollo Loco has you covered. Their Taco al Carbon and other options are safe and delicious. Plus, they clearly list all allergen information to make dining out easier.
Salads and Tostadas: Gluten-Free Choices for Salad Lovers
El Pollo Loco serves a variety of gluten-free salads and tostadas for those who avoid gluten. The Double Chicken Avocado Salad stands out, offering a healthy option. It contains 350 calories, 12g fat, 51g protein, and 820mg sodium.
El Pollo Loco also offers other gluten-free salads perfect for those who watch their health. Here are some popular choices along with their nutritional information:
| Item Name | Calories | Fat | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Chicken Tostada Salad | 840 | 42g | 41g |
| Classic Chicken Tostada Salad (without shell) | 410 | 13g | 34g |
| Double Chicken Tostada Salad | 1,010 | 50g | 65g |
| Chicken Taquito Salad | 530 | 23g | 42g |
| Chicken Taquito Salad (without taquitos) | 270 | — | 30g |
| Cheesy Quesadilla Salad | 830 | 40g | 73g |
El Pollo Loco ensures gluten-free salads are made carefully to avoid cross-contamination. Always confirm with staff that your meal is prepared safely in a gluten-free area.
| Item Name | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double Chicken Avocado Salad | Yes | Yes | No |
| Classic Chicken Tostada Salad | No | Yes* | No |
| Classic Chicken Tostada Salad (without shell) | Yes | Yes* | No |
| Double Chicken Tostada Salad | No | Yes* | No |
| Chicken Taquito Salad | No | No | No |
| Chicken Taquito Salad (without taquitos) | Yes | Yes* | No |
| Cheesy Quesadilla Salad | No | No | Dairy |
El Pollo Loco’s salads and tostadas are great for those seeking tasty, gluten-free meals. The Double Chicken Avocado Salad is especially popular. It’s a filling and nutritious option for anyone looking to eat gluten-free.
Sides and Extras: Complement Your Meal with Gluten-Free Options
At El Pollo Loco, adding gluten-free sides to your meal is easy and tasty. Options like fiber-filled broccoli and savory rice and beans are available. These choices make sure everyone has a full, delightful meal.
| Item Name | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Broccoli | 35 | $2.49 |
| Rice and Beans | 210 | $3.49 |
| Coleslaw | 150 | $2.99 |
| Loco Side Salad | 80 | $3.99 |
| Garlic Butter Fries | 330 | $3.29 |
| Cooked-to-Order Grilled Cheese | 320 | $2.99 |
| Mexican Corn | 180 | $2.79 |
| Mashed Potatoes | 190 | $2.59 |
| Macaroni and Cheese | 270 | $2.99 |
| Side of Salsa | 15 | $0.99 |
| Cilantro-Lime Rice | 190 | $2.49 |
| Black Beans | 160 | $2.69 |
| Seasoned Rice | 200 | $3.09 |
| Avocado Slices | 60 | $1.99 |
| Tortilla Chips | 290 | $2.49 |
El Pollo Loco also has healthy, gluten-free sides like broccoli and cilantro-lime cauliflower rice. These were warmly received in 2020. Each one is made to add balance and nutrition to your dishes.
| Item Name | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Broccoli | Yes | Yes | None |
| Rice and Beans | No | Yes | None |
| Coleslaw | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Loco Side Salad | Yes | Yes | None |
| Garlic Butter Fries | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Cooked-to-Order Grilled Cheese | Yes | No | Dairy |
| Mexican Corn | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Mashed Potatoes | Yes | Yes | Dairy |
| Macaroni and Cheese | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Side of Salsa | Yes | Yes | None |
| Cilantro-Lime Rice | No | Yes | None |
| Black Beans | Yes | Yes | None |
| Seasoned Rice | No | Yes | None |
| Avocado Slices | Yes | Yes | None |
| Tortilla Chips | Yes | Yes | None |
Looking for a classic like coleslaw or new choices like rice and beans? El Pollo Loco has a variety of gluten-free sides. They bring diversity and balance to any meal.
Snacks and Add-Ons at El Pollo Loco
El Pollo Loco offers great gluten-free snacks for those who want lighter options. You can enjoy Chicken Tortilla Soup and Chips and Guacamole. Always check how they’re made to make sure they fit your diet.
Here’s some popular gluten-free choices at El Pollo Loco:
| Item Name | Serving Size (oz.) | Total Calories | Calories from Fat | Total Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) | Cholesterol (mg) | Sodium (mg) | Total Carbohydrates (g) | Dietary Fiber (g) | Sugars (g) | Protein (g) | Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tortilla Soup (small) | 13.7 | 240 | 80 | 9 | 3 | 75 | 1250 | 19 | 3 | 3 | 23 | Egg |
| Chips & Guacamole (small) | 5.7 | 490 | — | 32 | 5 | — | — | 49 | 8 | 3 | 6 | — |
El Pollo Loco’s snack selection is perfect for a quick gluten-free treat. The Chicken Tortilla Soup is warm and comforting. Chips and Guacamole add a zesty crunch to your meal.
Check out the nutritional and allergen info for these tasty add-ons:
| Item Name | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Tortilla Soup (small) | No | Yes | Egg |
| Chips & Guacamole (small) | No | Yes | — |
This info helps customers make smart choices while enjoying their meals. El Pollo Loco ensures you can have delicious and safe gluten-free snacks. Enjoy Chicken Tortilla Soup and Chips and Guacamole with your meal.
Enjoying Gluten-Free Drinks at El Pollo Loco
El Pollo Loco has many drink options for those avoiding gluten. These include Mexican Horchata, various sodas, and iced teas. These drinks make your meal better, offering both taste and variety without gluten.
Horchata is a favorite, with its creamy taste that goes well with El Pollo Loco’s food. The place also has Agua Frescas, Vitaminwater XXX, and sodas like Dr. Pepper and Diet Coke. Each drink adds a special touch to your meal.
| Item Name | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Horchata | 160 | $2.29 |
| Diet Coke | 0 | $1.99 |
| Vitaminwater XXX | 120 | $2.49 |
| Minute Maid Lemonade | 150 | $1.99 |
| Fuze Sweetened Raspberry Iced Tea | 90 | $2.19 |
| Coca-Cola Freestyle | Varies | $2.29 |
| Dr. Pepper | 150 | $1.99 |
| Sprite | 140 | $1.99 |
| Diet Pepsi | 0 | $1.99 |
| Wild Berry Lemonade | 140 | $2.19 |
| Strawberry Lemonade | 130 | $2.19 |
| Agua Fresca – Water | 70 | $2.29 |
| Orange Juice | 110 | $1.79 |
| Bottled Water | 0 | $1.00 |
| Sweet Iced Tea | 80 | $1.99 |
El Pollo Loco marks its gluten-free drinks clearly. This helps everyone find something tasty to drink easily. You can enjoy Horchata or pick Vitaminwater XXX. There’s a choice for every taste at El Pollo Loco.
| Item Name | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horchata | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Diet Coke | Yes | Yes | None |
| Vitaminwater XXX | No | Yes | None |
| Minute Maid Lemonade | No | Yes | None |
| Fuze Sweetened Raspberry Iced Tea | No | Yes | None |
| Coca-Cola Freestyle | Depends on choice | Depends on choice | None |
| Dr. Pepper | No | Yes | None |
| Sprite | No | Yes | None |
| Diet Pepsi | Yes | Yes | None |
| Wild Berry Lemonade | No | Yes | None |
| Strawberry Lemonade | No | Yes | None |
| Agua Fresca – Water | Depends on choice | Depends on choice | None |
| Orange Juice | Yes | Yes | None |
| Bottled Water | Yes | Yes | None |
| Sweet Iced Tea | No | Yes | None |
El Pollo Loco works hard to have drinks for everyone. Whether you love Dr. Pepper or Vitaminwater XXX, you’ll find something perfect. You can enjoy your drink without worrying about gluten.
Here are some frequently asked questions about gluten-free drinks at El Pollo Loco:
- Is Horchata at El Pollo Loco gluten-free? Yes, it’s gluten-free but has dairy.
- Are any of the drinks keto-friendly? Drinks like Diet Coke and bottled water are good for keto.
- Do El Pollo Loco’s beverages have common allergens? Most do not, but Horchata has dairy.
- Can I customize my drink at El Pollo Loco? Yes, with Coca-Cola Freestyle, you can make many combinations.
- What are the calorie counts for these drinks? They range from zero in Diet Coke to 160 in Horchata.
Conclusion
Eating at El Pollo Loco is now better and safer for those avoiding gluten. They offer a lot of gluten-free choices. This includes fire-grilled chicken, tasty salsas, and customizable bowls and salads. Their commitment shows in offering clear allergen info online and inside their stores.
They have trained their staff well about allergens. This helps them answer questions about gluten-free options. Efforts are high to lower cross-contamination risks. But, diners should always talk about their sensitivity levels with the staff. The highlighted gluten-free choice, flame-grilled chicken, goes great with rice or beans.
El Pollo Loco provides detailed allergen menus. These menus show gluten, dairy, soy, and nut-free options. You can also customize your meal. They work hard to make dining safe for everyone. While a 100% gluten-free setting isn’t promised, their actions show they care. For those with dietary limits, El Pollo Loco aims to offer a considerate and fun dining experience.
FAQ
Does El Pollo Loco offer a completely gluten-free menu?
El Pollo Loco does not have a fully gluten-free menu. But, they offer many options without wheat gluten. They are clear about how they prepare their food.
Which items on the El Pollo Loco menu are considered gluten-free?
Gluten-free items include fire-grilled chicken, like thighs and wings. You can also find salads like the Double Chicken Avocado Salad. Plus, there are bowl options such as the Original Pollo Bowl® and sides like broccoli.
What precautions does El Pollo Loco take to prevent cross-contamination?
El Pollo Loco has gluten-free options but warns of cross-contamination in shared kitchens. Those highly sensitive should consider this when eating there.
Are there gluten-free beverages available at El Pollo Loco?
Yes, they offer gluten-free drinks like Horchata, soft drinks, and teas.
Can I order gluten-free tacos at El Pollo Loco?
El Pollo Loco has tacos like the Taco al Carbon that are made without gluten ingredients.
