Is Chicken & Potatoes Moroccan Recipe Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing prepared meals for gluten content, we look beyond the obvious main ingredients to scrutinize the binders, starches, and flavorings. In this Chicken & Potatoes Moroccan Recipe, the primary components are whole foods: POTATOES, BONELESS WHITE MEAT CHICKEN, RED BELL PEPPERS, and ONIONS. These naturally contain no gluten.

The chicken itself is processed with NATIVE RICE STARCH. This is a critical detail. Rice starch is derived from rice, a gluten-free grain, making it an excellent alternative to wheat flour or wheat starch often used to retain moisture in frozen meats. Additionally, the sauce relies on TOMATO PUREE, LEMON JUICE, and GARLIC for flavor, all of which are naturally gluten-free.

We also examined the fats and oils used. The meal utilizes EXPELLER PRESSED SUNFLOWER OIL. Unlike some vegetable oils that might be processed in facilities handling gluten, pure sunflower oil is safe. Finally, the seasoning blend consists of SPICES and SEA SALT. While spice blends can sometimes be a hiding spot for anti-caking agents (like wheat starch), the absence of any mention of modified food starch or wheat derivatives suggests this blend is clean.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, this meal is relatively balanced, centering on protein and complex carbohydrates. The CHICKEN provides a solid source of lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance and satiety. The POTATOES serve as the carbohydrate base, offering potassium and fiber, especially if the skins are left on (though in prepared meals, they are usually peeled).

The inclusion of RED BELL PEPPERS and GREEN PEAS adds a layer of vitamins (specifically Vitamin C) and fiber. Regarding the sauce, the use of TOMATO PUREE is generally low in added sugars compared to ketchup-based sauces, but it does contribute natural sugars. The EXPELLER PRESSED SUNFLOWER OIL provides healthy fats, though the total caloric density will depend on the specific amount used per serving. Overall, this dish fits well within a standard balanced diet, offering a good ratio of macronutrients without relying heavily on processed fillers.