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El Pollo Loco introduces its first chicken flavor innovation in nearly a decadeEl Pollo Loco introduces its first chicken flavor innovation in nearly a decade

The Mango Habanero Fire-Grilled Chicken is available for a limited time

Alicia Kelso, Executive Editor

January 30, 2025

2 Min Read
The new Mango Habanero Chicken is El Pollo Loco’s first chicken flavor innovation in nearly a decade
The new Mango Habanero Chicken is El Pollo Loco’s first chicken flavor innovation in nearly a decade Photo provided by El Pollo Loco

During the ICR Conference in Orlando, Fla., earlier this month, El Pollo Loco chief executive officer Liz Williams teased a robust marketing calendar from the brand this year prioritizing new products.

“In 2024, our marketing windows were products that had been seen before. We walked away from some of our innovations. In 2025, there are five marketing windows and every one of those is a new product,” Williams said.

We now know what the first of those five "windows" looks like. The California-based chain today introduced Mango Habanero Fire-Grilled Chicken, available for a limited time. The item can be ordered a la carte or as part of the new Mango Habanero Chicken Meals and Family Meals.

“After months of culinary development in our test kitchen, we are pleased to introduce this new vibrant Mango Habanero Sauce which perfectly balances the sweetness of mango puree with the fiery kick of habanero peppers,” head of culinary innovation and chef Rene Pisciotti said in a statement. “This flavor combination amplifies our citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken.”

The new Mango Habanero Chicken is El Pollo Loco’s first chicken flavor innovation in nearly a decade and comes as the company marks its 50th anniversary this year. Pricing starts at $9.19 for a two-piece Individual Chicken Meal, which includes two small sides, and $25.79 for an eight-piece Family Chicken Meal, which includes two large sides. For an additional charge, Mango Habanero Sauce is also available as a side. Pricing and participation may vary by location.

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“We are thrilled to offer consumers a delicious new flavor that delivers on taste at a value price that we know consumers are looking for,” Williams said in a statement. “Our ability to bring together flavorful, healthier options and a winning customer experience truly differentiates El Pollo Loco.”

El Pollo Loco has recently extended its value offerings, including with a $5 Taco Tuesday deal, $5 Original Pollo Bowl, and new Loco Friday Drops, which feature rotation of deals and giveaways every Friday through the end of 2025, exclusively for Loco Rewards Members.

Contact Alicia Kelso at [email protected]

About the Author

Alicia Kelso

Executive Editor, Nation's Restaurant News

Alicia Kelso is the executive editor of Nation's Restaurant News. She began covering the restaurant industry in 2010 for QSRweb.com, FastCasual.com and PizzaMarketplace.com. When her son was born, she left the industry to pursue a role in higher education, but swiftly returned after realizing how much she missed the space. In filling that void, Alicia added a contributor role at Restaurant Dive and a senior contributor role at Forbes.
Her work has appeared in publications around the world, including Forbes Asia, NPR, Bloomberg, The Seattle Times, Crain's Chicago, Good Morning America and Franchise Asia Magazine.
Alicia holds a degree in journalism from Bowling Green State University, where she competed on the women's swim team. In addition to cheering for the BGSU Falcons, Alicia is a rabid Michigan fan and will talk about college football with anyone willing to engage. She lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with her wife and son.

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