El Pollo Loco names Rogan executive chefEl Pollo Loco names Rogan executive chef

Lisa Jennings

COSTA MESA Calif. El Pollo Loco Inc. has hired back Jonathan Rogan to fill the newly created position of executive chef, the company said Tuesday.

Rogan, who most recently served as director of research and development for Baja Fresh Mexican Grill, was previously manager of culinary development for El Pollo Loco from 2006 to 2007.

His resume also includes stints with California Pizza Kitchen, Gelson’s Markets, Good Earth Restaurants, Square One Restaurants and Moose McGillycuddy’s Pub and Cafe.

Karen Eadon, El Pollo Loco’s chief marketing officer, said the creation of an executive chef post signals the chain’s commitment to menu innovation.

“Chef Rogan is a gifted culinary professional with a proven track record for creating truly innovative recipes that blend freshness with bold flavors,” she said in a statement. “His culinary strength, combined with a wealth of experience in kitchen staff training, is a perfect fit for our organization. We are thrilled to have him back.”

Based in Costa Mesa, El Pollo Loco Inc. operates or franchises more than 400 restaurants across the country. Though the menu’s focus is on citrus-marinated grilled chicken, El Pollo Loco recently added several sirloin steak dishes to the menu and officials said they are also testing sales of a fish taco in a handful of stores.

Contact Lisa Jennings at [email protected].