For those who love bold, flame-grilled flavors but need to steer clear of gluten, Nando’s offers a delicious array of options to ensure that you don’t have to miss out. Known for its legendary PERi-PERi chicken, Nando’s has built a reputation for vibrant, mouthwatering meals inspired by Portuguese and South African flavors.
Whether you have celiac disease, a gluten intolerance, or simply prefer to avoid gluten, dining out can often feel like a challenge. The risk of cross-contamination and hidden gluten in sauces and seasonings can make ordering stressful.
While Nando’s does not operate a dedicated gluten-free kitchen, they do offer a wide range of gluten-free choices, from juicy grilled chicken to fresh salads, hearty sides, and even indulgent desserts. Plus, their staff can accommodate gluten-sensitive diners by taking extra precautions to minimize cross-contact, so you can enjoy your meal with peace of mind.
To make your next Nando’s visit a breeze, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of 20 gluten-free menu items that you can confidently order. From appetizers and main courses to sides and desserts, these are the dishes that will keep you coming back for more—without the worry of gluten getting in the way.
1. Halloumi Sticks & Dip
These crispy halloumi sticks are perfectly fried, offering a crunchy exterior that gives way to a soft, flavorful interior. Served alongside a creamy dip, it provides a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Try pairing it with a salad to enhance your dining experience.
2. Sweet Potato Wedges with Garlic Perinaise
Sweet Potato Wedges with Garlic Perinaise provide a tasty twist on traditional fries. These wedges are seasoned to perfection, bringing out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. The accompanying garlic Perinaise adds a creamy, flavorful touch that complements the dish beautifully.
Enjoy these wedges as a standalone snack or as a side to your favorite entrée.
3. Spicy Mixed Olives
Spicy Mixed Olives offer a tantalizing blend of flavors, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat. The olives are marinated with chili flakes and herbs, providing a savory and slightly spicy taste that excites the palate. This dish is an excellent appetizer, setting the stage for the flavorful journey ahead.
4. Chicken Butterfly
This dish features two succulent chicken breasts, butterflied and grilled to perfection. The careful preparation ensures a moist and flavorful experience with every bite.
Its simple yet satisfying taste makes it a versatile choice that pairs well with any side.
5. Boneless Chicken Thighs
Nando’s Boneless Chicken Thighs are a juicy and flavorful option for gluten-sensitive diners. These thighs are expertly seasoned and grilled, ensuring a tender texture and robust taste. Their rich flavor profile makes them a standout dish, perfect for pairing with a variety of sides.
Whether enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger meal, these chicken thighs promise satisfaction with every bite. For an added zing, consider drizzling them with one of Nando’s famous PERi-PERi sauces.
6. Chicken Wings
These wings are grilled to perfection and glazed with the iconic PERi-PERi sauce, providing a delightful kick. Their crispy exterior and juicy interior make them irresistible.
7. Whole Chicken
Opt for the Whole Chicken at Nando’s for a feast of flavors. This dish is perfect for sharing, offering a complete experience of Nando’s renowned flame-grilled expertise.
The chicken is seasoned and roasted to deliver a crispy skin and succulent meat. Ideal for group dining, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and sauces, allowing everyone at the table to customize their meal.
8. Mediterranean Salad
The Mediterranean Salad offers a refreshing gluten-free option at Nando’s. With a mix of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, this salad is both healthy and delicious. It’s a delightful choice for those seeking a lighter meal option, packed with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.
9. Spicy Rice Bowl
Nando’s Spicy Rice Bowl is a flavorful gluten-free side that complements any meal. This dish features perfectly cooked rice seasoned with aromatic spices and herbs, offering a hint of heat.
Pair it with your favorite grilled chicken dish or enjoy it on its own as a tasty carbohydrate option.
10. Chips
These gluten-free chips are golden and crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, offering a perfect balance of textures. Sprinkled with sea salt, they are a satisfying snack or side dish. Enjoy them with ketchup or one of Nando’s signature sauces for an extra kick.
Whether you’re indulging in a full meal or a quick snack, these chips add a comforting element to your dining experience.
11. Coleslaw
Nando’s Coleslaw is a fresh and creamy delight that pairs beautifully with any main dish. This gluten-free option features a mix of shredded cabbage and carrots, all enveloped in a creamy dressing. Its refreshing taste and crunchy texture provide a pleasant contrast to richer dishes.
12. Corn on the Cob
Grilled to perfection, the corn is tender and flavorful, with a slight char that adds depth. It’s served with a generous smear of butter and a sprinkle of herbs, enhancing its natural sweetness. Ideal as a side dish or a snack, it complements any meal with its vibrant flavor and satisfying crunch.
Corn on the Cob is a delightful addition to your Nando’s experience.
13. Creamy Mash
Nando’s Creamy Mash is a comfort food classic, perfect for gluten-free diners seeking a hearty side. The mashed potatoes are smooth and rich, offering a creamy texture that melts in the mouth. Its subtle flavors make it a versatile accompaniment to any main course, especially Nando’s famous grilled chicken.
It’s a staple that never goes out of style.
14. Macho Peas
Macho Peas at Nando’s are a refreshing and unique gluten-free side option. These crushed peas are infused with mint, providing a fresh and tangy taste. The subtle seasoning elevates the natural sweetness of the peas, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.
15. Long Stem Broccoli
Steamed to perfection, this broccoli retains its vibrant color and crispness. A touch of lemon zest and sea salt enhances its natural flavors, providing a refreshing side to any meal. It’s a healthy option that pairs beautifully with Nando’s grilled chicken.
Whether you’re looking to add greens to your plate or enjoy a light appetizer, Long Stem Broccoli is a satisfying and wholesome choice.
16. Portuguese Tomato Salad
Nando’s Portuguese Tomato Salad offers a refreshing and tangy gluten-free option. This salad features ripe tomatoes mixed with onions and a sprinkle of herbs, all tossed in a light vinaigrette.
17. Gelados
Vanilla, Mango, Chocolate or Coconut Gelado—they’re all gluten-free. These icy treats are a perfect way to cleanse the palate after a fiery meal, offering a cooling and sweet respite. It’s a simple yet satisfying choice for dessert lovers.
Enjoy it on its own or with a dash of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgence.
18. Chocolate Fondant
This warm chocolate pudding is rich and gooey, offering an indulgent treat that melts in the mouth. Paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it creates a delightful contrast of hot and cold.
Enjoy this dessert as a sweet ending to your meal, providing a comforting and luxurious experience.
19. Bottomless Soft Swirl Tub
The Bottomless Soft Swirl Tub at Nando’s offers a fun and indulgent gluten-free dessert experience. This tub of soft swirl ice cream is creamy and smooth, providing endless enjoyment with every bite.
Enjoy as much as you like, making it perfect for sharing or savoring on your own.
20. PERi-PERi Sauces
Nando’s PERi-PERi Sauces are a fantastic gluten-free way to enhance any dish. These sauces come in a variety of spiciness levels, from mild to extra hot, allowing you to customize your meal to your taste.
Whether you prefer a gentle kick or a fiery explosion of flavor, there’s a PERi-PERi sauce for you. Use them as a marinade, dip, or drizzle to add a burst of taste to your dining experience.
These sauces are a staple at Nando’s, making any meal more exciting and flavorful.
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