If you’re looking for gluten-free kids lunch box ideas – due to celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or personal preference – it’s important to provide lunch options that are both nutritious and enjoyable.
A gluten-free lunch doesn’t have to mean sacrificing taste or variety. With the right ingredients, you can create meals that are both delicious and packed with nutrients.
In this blog, we’ll share simple and practical gluten-free lunch box ideas that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
How to Pack a Balanced Gluten-Free Lunch
When your child has a dietary restriction, it’s easy to focus solely on that one thing—like avoiding gluten. While this should always be the number one priority, it’s also important to maintain balance in their meals to keep them full and satisfied throughout the afternoon.
Let’s cover the basic components to include in a balanced gluten-free lunch. They key is to focus on the same equation, and pack 1-2 elements from each section.
Protein
Essential for growth, muscle repair, and keeping your child full. Unless it’s breaded or fried, protein options are usually naturally gluten-free!
If you’re struggling to get your picky eater to eat enough protein and you need more help, check out my comprehensive guide on protein for picky eaters – dozens of meal ideas, recommendations, and snack options!
- Sliced turkey or chicken breast
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Hummus
- Greek yogurt (dairy or dairy-free)
- Cheese sticks or cubes (cheddar, mozzarella, string cheese)
- Tofu (cubed or grilled)
- Edamame
- Chicken or turkey meatballs (gluten-free)
- Canned tuna or salmon (packed in water)
- Cottage cheese
- Sunflower seed butter or almond butter (if no nut allergies)
- Roasted chickpeas
- Beef or turkey jerky (gluten-free)
- Lentil salad
- Quinoa (can be mixed with veggies or beans for extra protein)
Color (Fiber)
Since 90% of kids don’t consume enough fiber, it’s important to include it in every meal, including lunch. Fiber supports proper digestive health and helps keep kids feeling full longer throughout the afternoon.
- Baby carrots
- Celery sticks
- Snap peas
- Cherry tomatoes
- Radishes
- Sliced pears
- Sliced oranges
- Apple wedges
- Sliced strawberries
- Grapes (whole or halved)
- Broccoli florets
- Cauliflower florets
- Edamame
- Zucchini sticks
- Sliced mango
- Cantaloupe cubes
- Pineapple chunks
Carbohydrates
Although these are often the gluten culprits, including carbohydrates in a gluten-free lunch is still important! Carbs help give kids energy for the school day and are often the most satisfying part of a meal.
- Gluten-free crackers
- Rice cakes
- Quinoa
- Gluten-free bread or wraps
- Sweet potato fries (baked)
- Gluten-free granola
- Brown rice or wild rice
- Gluten-free pasta (cold pasta salads work well)
- Oatmeal (can be served cold in a jar or as a snack bar)
- Potato salad (made with gluten-free mayo or dressing)
- Corn tortillas (for wraps or soft tacos)
- Roasted potatoes (cubed or wedges)
- Gluten-free bagels
- Gluten-free muffins (made with almond or coconut flour)
- Popcorn (plain or lightly seasoned)
“Fun” or “Favorite” Food
Packing the perfect gluten-free lunch isn’t just about optimizing nutrition – you want your kiddo to actually enjoy it! Packing a “fun” or “favorite” food helps to make meals feel more approachable and less stressful.
Gluten-Free Lunch Box Ideas
1. Turkey & Cheese Skewers
- Skewered turkey and cheese
- Gluten-free Flax Crackers
- Baby carrots or cucumber with ranch
- Bobo’s oat bite
2. Chicken Quesadilla
- Gluten-free tortilla filled with grilled chicken and cheese
- Chips and salsa
- Black Forest Fruit Leather
3. Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
- Rotissere chicken mixed with greek yogurt, lemon juice, celery bits
- Lettuce leaves
- Grapes
- Smartfood Popcorn
4. Cottage Cheese Snack Box
5. Rice Cake with Nut Butter
- Rice cakes topped with nut butter and sprinkled with coconut flakes
- Celery with hummus
- Stroopwafels
6. Protein Snack Box
- 2 Hard Boiled Eggs
- Gluten-free Pretzels
- Cheddar Cheese Slices
- Apple Slices
7. Mini Marinara Meatballs
- Amylu Chicken Meatballs
- Marinara sauce for dipping
- Bare Apple Chips
8. Turkey & Avocado Roll-Ups
- Sliced turkey, cheese, and avocado on a gluten free tortilla
- Hippea Puffs
- Orange slices
9. Breakfast for Lunch
- Amylu Chicken Sausage Links
- Hard boiled egg
- Berries
- Maple Blueberry Mezcla Bar
10. Charcuterie Box
RD-Approved Lunch Box Accessories
Now that we have some lunchbox ideas, here are some of my favorite lunchbox accessories and tools to make prep easier!
1. Omie Lunchbox with Insulated Thermos Section
2. Bento Box 5 Compartments
3. Animal Food Picks
4. Mini Stainless Steel Containers for Dressing & Sides
5. Silicon Lunch Dividers
6. Fruit and Veggie Divider
7. Silicon Reusable Storage Bags
8. Reusable Ice Packs
Packing a gluten-free lunch for your kids doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right planning and a little creativity, you can make lunches that are both fun and nutritious.
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