El Pollo Loco is a fast-casual chain restaurant that boasts an extensive menu of Mexican-style grilled chicken and other specialty items. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite on the go or an evening out with friends, El Pollo Loco has something to satisfy everyone. Plus, even with food inflations and increased menu prices, El Pollo Loco still represents one of the best values to consumers in the casual dining / fast food. 

El Pollo Loco has been a beloved Southern California institution for more than 40 years. It all started with one man’s desire for a quality chicken dinner after a hard day’s work and a mother’s recipe. Juan Francisco Ochoa founded El Pollo Loco in 1975 and based it on his mother’s traditional Mexican recipe. Check out the up-to-date El Pollo Loco menu prices in 2024 below. 

Limited Time Menu Offers

Family Meals Menu Prices 

Chicken Meals Menu Prices

Tostadas Menu Prices 

Fire-Grilled Combos Menu Prices

Burritos Menu Prices 

Nachos Menu Prices 

Quesadilla Menu Prices 

Street Tacos Menu Prices 

Bowl Menu Prices 

Pollo Bowls Menu Prices 

Fit Menu Prices 

Starters Menu Prices 

Extra Menu Prices 

Pork Carnitas Menu Prices 

Desserts Menu Prices 

Kids Meals Menu Prices

Drinks Menu Prices 

Catering Menu Prices 

FAQs about the El Pollo Loco Menu

What menu items have been discontinued at El Pollo Loco?

When El Pollo Loco’s Restaurant announced that they had reduced menu items by nearly 20% back in 2019, many were surprised. But CEO Bernard Acoca said the move was necessary in order to be more efficient in the kitchen and reduce complexity. 

The restaurant chain discontinued some of its items to make room for new and improved offerings. But it’s important to note that El Pollo Loco’s executives saw no decrease in transactions due to their menu simplification. In fact, the move allowed them to focus on preparing fresh and delicious meals for their customers.

The most noticeable changes to El Pollo Loco’s menu are the discontinuation of some of their popular dishes, such as their Chicken Fajita Burrito, Chicken Fajita Quesadilla, and the Mexican Cobb Salad. So while you may miss some of the discontinued items, rest assured that El Pollo Loco’s Restaurant is working to give you the best possible experience every time you visit.

What discounts can you claim at El Pollo Loco? 

Even though menu prices increased over the past 12 months, El Pollo Loco remains one of the most affordable places for a family to eat. The family meal deals in particular are hard to beat from a value standpoint. I mean, where else can you feed a family of four for under $30 these days? Still, here are a few ways you can save even more at El Pollo Loco.

El Pollo Loco offers senior discounts to their guests who are 60 years of age or older. If you qualify, you can receive a 10% discount (up to a maximum value of $1) when you visit the restaurant at participating locations. To apply the discount, simply ask the cashier prior to payment. They’ll be sure to apply the discount to your total bill and make sure you get the most out of your experience at El Pollo Loco’s Restaurant.

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Other than the senior discount, El Pollo Loco also offers a service discount. They’re offering a 15% discount (maximum value of $1.50) to police officers, firefighters, EMTs, federal law enforcement agents, and military personnel. This service discount is available at participating locations only, so before you place your order, make sure to ask your cashier if the discount is available. If you qualify, all you need to do is show your badge (if you’re not in uniform) and you’ll be eligible to receive the discount.

At El Pollo Loco, they want to make sure you get the most bang for your buck – so don’t forget to take advantage of their coupons. These are sent out by mail at least once per month if you live in the area and I used to use them all the time when I live in Southern California.

Just remember that each coupon and discount is limited to one transaction per visit. On that note, don’t bother trying to use print or email codes in the restaurant – they won’t work. But don’t worry, these codes are still redeemable when you order online or sign up for the Loco Reward via the mobile app. So get ready to get your money’s worth – it’s time to get Loco!

What are the most popular menu items at El Pollo Loco?

Original Pollo Bowl

When it comes to delicious food, there’s nothing like the classics. Take the original Pollo bowl from El Pollo Loco for instance. It’s a timeless classic that always hits the spot. Start with a bed of seasoned rice and beans, then top it off with all of your favorite ingredients. El Pollo Loco is known for its grilled chicken, but don’t forget the onions, pico de gallo, and cilantro – they add the perfect amount of freshness to the mix. 

BRC Burrito

The BRC Burrito is a delicious, easy-to-choose option. ‘BRC’ stands for Beans, Rice, and Cheese – all three are expertly wrapped in a ten-inch flour tortilla. With its simple yet scrumptious combination, the BRC Burrito is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters with its deliciousness.

Chicken Tortilla Soup

This comforting dish is made with the famous grilled chicken, chicken broth, carrots, celery, and roasted corn. Topping off the soup is a sprinkle of tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and Cotija cheese, making it a delightfully homey and satisfying taste.

Other popular items at El Pollo Loco:

• Chipotle Chicken Avocado Burrito
• Mashed Potatoes & Gravy
• Cinnamon Churros
• Double Chicken Avocado Salad
• Macaroni and Cheese 
• Classic Tostada Salad 
• Any of the family meal deals

Is there a secret menu at El Pollo Loco?

There’s no secret about grilled chicken being on the menu.

Discover the unique selections that El Pollo Loco has to offer with its secret menu. These delicious choices provide interesting modifications to current menu items, as well as some new, standout meals. Even though it may not be as extensive as some of the other Mexican fast food secret menus, but they are still worth giving a try. Have a look at the options below.

Smoky Mountain Black Bean Burrito

The memorable Smokey Mountain Black Bean Burrito once graced the El Pollo Loco regular menu. Unfortunately, it has since been removed. For those who miss this burrito, one option is to ask for the BRC Burrito and substitute it with black beans, as they are a key ingredient of the original Smokey Mountain Burrito.

Fish Tacos

For years, Fish Tacos were a bit of a mystery at El Pollo Loco. But you can find them at some restaurant locations as a secret item. All you have to do is ask and you will get it. A fish taco is a great, healthy alternative to the classic chicken taco. Make sure to call ahead to confirm this item is available at a location near you because it really is hit or miss. 

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Skinless Chicken

At El Pollo Loco, chicken is one of the healthiest options among fast food restaurants. To make it even healthier, simply request the order to be skinless. Removing the skin will reduce the fat content by more than half. This is a great hack for all health-conscious people who want to reduce the fat content in each meal. Personally, I love the skin on grilled chicken so I would never do this. 

Carb Free

Request “carb-free” for a straightforward alteration to regular menu items. El Pollo Loco has nutritious, protein-rich sides that are low in carbs like mixed veggies, a side salad, or black beans to enjoy with peace of mind.

Are there any menu items for specialty diets? 

At El Pollo Loco, they strive to provide something for everyone, from their Pollo Fit section of low-calorie meals to their Mexican-style comfort food. Despite being a fast-casual restaurant, they make an effort to include healthier options on their menu. Customers can choose from the lighter menu items listed below. 

• Chicken Taco al Carbon: 170 Calories
• Chicken Tortilla Soup: 240 – 440 Calories
• Loco Side Salad: 170 – 430 Calories
• Double Chicken Avocado Salad: 430 Calories
• Original Pollo Bowl: 580 Calories
• BRC Burrito: 410 Calories
• Keto Burrito: 510 Calories

Who is the target audience of this El Pollo Loco’s menu?

El Pollo Loco has long been a leader in targeting multigenerational family audiences, making it one of the most beloved restaurant brands in the diverse region of Southern California specifically. Their strategy helps the brand build a closer relationship with younger audiences, which is important, as young, bilingual Hispanic populations in the US continue to grow. 

To keep up with the changing needs of their audience, El Pollo Loco shifted its focus to digital channels with half of its ad dollars being spent on digital platforms, primarily connected TV and social video. The brand is also leveraging TikTok, the fastest-growing social media platform to engage with their target audience and drive the discovery of its offerings. 

The brand has clearly demonstrated its commitment to staying relevant and engaging its younger audiences, and that’s a strategy that seems to be paying off. 

While the restaurant has an innovative approach to marketing, El Pollo Loco continues to grill their chicken the same way it has always been – citrus-marinated and slow-cooked over an open flame. This traditional cooking method ensures a juicy, flavorful, and tender chicken, just like the founder Juan Francisco’s mother used to make.