Chipotle Pollo Asado chicken could be a menu game changer

While many people are still cheering for the new brisket, the Chipotle Pollo Asado chicken presents a huge change to the popular quick service restaurant. As this new menu option begins its testing phase, the excitement builds and potentially presents a new food trend.

From the burritos to the bowls, the reality is that Chipotle has legions of fans. Even if guac can be extra, the flavors in each bite bring people back time and again.

With the recent announcement about the Chipotle Pollo Asado chicken, guests might be wondering if the classic Adobo chicken is disappearing. Do not fret. The beloved menu item will still be on the menu. Chipotle is just expanding its chicken options.

As Chris Brandt, Chief Marketing Officer said, “Chicken has long been the top protein choice among Chipotle guests. With the celebrated Adobo chicken recipe already on our menu, we decided it was time to add another option and our new flavorful Pollo Asado chicken is another perfect complement to our real ingredients.”

What does Chipotle Pollo Asado chicken taste like?

According to Chipotle, the seasoning in the Chipotle Pollo Asado features “cumin, guajillo peppers and coriander.” The dry rub seasons the chicken and it helps to create a tasty sear on the protein. The contrast of the rub to the moist chicken should be quite tasty.

In addition, the chicken is “finished garlic, chili peppers, fresh squeezed lime and chopped cilantro.” Based on that description, this chicken has double the cilantro (cilantro and coriander are the same plant). For people who do not like that ingredient, this chicken option may not be their primary choice.

Adding a new chicken option is an interesting choice. While the chicken sandwich wars continue to battle on, chicken continues to be part of the conversation. By bringing a new flavor to the table, Chipotle is showing that variety is key to bringing guests back time and again. Having numerous flavors of the same ingredient keeps food exciting.

In addition, it is interesting that Chipotle is adding chicken versus another plant based food offering. Even though many people appreciate the quick service restaurant’s vegetarian friendly options, that food segment might have become a little saturated.

Since the Chipotle Pollo Asado is just a test, it can only be enjoyed at “95 restaurants across Cincinnati, Ohio and Sacramento, California.” Potential future expansion is not yet known.

What do you think of this new Chipotle menu item? What other food items need a flavor upgrade at Chipotle?