A fast-casual Mexican grill that has served generations deserves a closer look at what keeps regulars returning. When you look at the El Pollo Loco menu with prices, you see a mix of classic fire-grilled chicken and modern convenience. This guide breaks down the current costs, the best combos, and the hidden value items you might be missing.
You are here because you want to know exactly what you are paying for before you walk in. We have done the homework on the latest pricing structure, so you can order with confidence. No guesswork, just the facts and the numbers for 2024.
El Pollo Loco Menu With Prices
The core of this chain is the citrus-marinated chicken cooked over an open flame. But the menu has grown far beyond just whole birds. You will find tacos, burritos, bowls, and sides that all revolve around that signature smoky flavor.
Prices do vary slightly by state and city due to local operating costs. The figures below are based on average franchise pricing in California and the Southwest. Always check your local store app for the most accurate numbers in your zip code.
Fire-Grilled Chicken And Family Meals
This is the anchor of the business. If you are feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, the larger packs offer the best bang for your buck. The chicken comes in two styles: Original (skin-on) and Skinless.
- ¼ Chicken Dark Meat – $5.99
- ¼ Chicken White Meat – $6.49
- ½ Chicken – $9.99
- Whole Chicken – $12.99
- Whole Chicken (Skinless) – $13.49
- 12-Piece Family Meal – $34.99 (Includes large sides and tortillas)
- 8-Piece Meal – $27.99
The family meals are the reason many people choose this spot for taco night. You get a lot of food for the price. The 12-piece meal easily feeds four to five hungry adults.
Individual Combos And Plates
If you are dining solo, the combos are the standard way to go. Each combo comes with your choice of side and a regular drink. The price jumps slightly if you upgrade to a larger side or a premium side like street corn.
- 2 Piece Chicken Combo – $10.99
- Chicken Tortilla Soup Combo – $8.99
- Chicken Avocado Bowl – $10.49
- Double Chicken Bowl – $11.99
- Quesadilla Combo – $9.79
You can swap the side for a salad or extra vegetables for a small upcharge. Most locations charge about $0.60 more for the “premium” side options. The combos are filling, but the bowls are often the lighter choice if you are watching carbs.
Street Tacos And Burritos
The menu has shifted to highlight “street style” items. These are smaller, hand-held options that focus on the grilled chicken rather than heavy fillers. You can order these a la carte or as part of a larger plate.
- Street Taco (Chicken or Steak) – $3.49 each
- Street Taco Plate – $9.99 (Includes 3 tacos, rice, and beans)
- Original Chicken Burrito – $8.79
- Chicken Avocado Burrito – $9.49
- Steak Burrito – $9.99
The burritos here are massive. They are wrapped tight and grilled on the press, which gives them a slight crunch. If you have a smaller appetite, you might get two meals out of one burrito.
Bowls And Salads
For a lower-carb option, the bowls are the way to go. They are served in a deep dish with a layer of cilantro-lime rice at the bottom. You can swap the rice for extra lettuce or extra veggies at no charge.
- Chicken Caesar Salad – $9.49
- Tostada Salad – $9.79
- Avocado Chicken Bowl – $10.99
- Keto Bowl – $10.49 (No rice or beans, extra cheese and guac)
The Keto Bowl is a hidden gem. It is packed with protein and healthy fats. It is one of the few fast-food items that actually fits a strict low-carb lifestyle without feeling like a sad afterthought.
Kid’s Menu
If you have little ones, the kids menu is affordable and includes a small drink and a side. The portions are appropriate for children under ten. Older kids might need to order from the regular menu.
- Kids Chicken Tenders – $5.99
- Kids Quesadilla – $5.49
- Kids Drumstick Meal – $5.79
Every kids meal comes with a small bag of chips or a fruit cup. The fruit cup is fresh and not the syrupy canned kind. That is a nice touch for parents trying to keep things healthy.
Sides And Extras
You cannot skip the sides here. The rice and beans are solid, but the street corn is the standout item. It is slathered in crema and dusted with cotija cheese. It is worth the extra dollar.
- French Fries – $2.99
- Mexican Rice – $2.49
- Pinto Beans – $2.49
- Street Corn – $3.29
- Cole Slaw – $2.29
- Chicken Tortilla Soup (Cup) – $3.99
- Chips and Guacamole – $4.49
- Chips and Salsa – $2.79
You can also buy the tortillas by the dozen if you are making your own tacos at home. A pack of 12 flour tortillas runs about $3.99. The salsa bar is self-serve at most locations, so you can grab as many packets of the green tomatillo salsa as you want.
Desserts And Drinks
Finish your meal with a churro or a flan. The churros are fried to order and dusted with cinnamon sugar. They come with a side of caramel dipping sauce.
- Churro – $2.49
- Churro Sundae – $3.99
- Flan – $3.29
- Soft Drink – $2.79 (Free refills)
- Horchata – $3.49
- Jarritos – $3.29
The horchata is house-made and has a nice cinnamon flavor. It is not overly sweet, which makes it a good pairing with the smoky chicken.
How To Save Money On Your Order
Eating out adds up, but there are several ways to cut the cost at El Pollo Loco. You do not need to pay full price if you know the tricks. Here are the best methods to keep your wallet happy.
Use The App And Loyalty Program
The mobile app is the single best way to save money. They constantly push out “app-only” deals that are not available in the store. You can also earn points on every dollar you spend.
- Download the app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Create an account and enter your phone number.
- Check the “Offers” tab every week for discounts.
- Redeem points for free chicken or sides.
New users often get a free meal just for signing up. That is a great reason to try the app if you have not already. The points system is straightforward: 10 points per dollar, and 150 points gets you a free side.
Look For The “Loco Value” Menu
There is a dedicated value menu that is easy to miss. These items are priced under $5 and are perfect for a quick snack or a light lunch. The selection rotates, but the core items remain the same.
- Chicken Taco – $1.99
- Bean and Cheese Burrito – $2.49
- Small Chips and Salsa – $1.79
- Chicken Roller – $2.99
The Chicken Roller is a small flour tortilla wrapped around grilled chicken, rice, and cheese. It is a solid snack that does not break the bank. You can get two of these and a drink for under six dollars.
Take Advantage Of Combo Upgrades
When you order a combo, the default side is usually fries or rice and beans. Upgrading to a salad or street corn costs a little extra. But if you skip the drink and just order a plate, you save about $2.00.
Ask for “no drink” when you order a combo. Most cashiers will deduct the drink price from your total. This is a simple hack that many people forget to use.
Nutritional Considerations And Customization
If you are tracking macros or calories, you need to know what is in your food. The nutrition info is available online, but here are the key highlights. The grilled chicken is high in protein and relatively low in fat compared to fried options.
Low Carb And Keto Friendly Options
El Pollo Loco is actually one of the better fast-food chains for low-carb diets. The chicken is naturally keto-friendly. You just need to avoid the rice, beans, and tortillas.
- Order the Chicken Avocado Bowl without rice and beans.
- Ask for extra lettuce and a side of pico de gallo.
- Add a side of guacamole for healthy fats.
The Keto Bowl is the easiest option because it is already designed for this purpose. It comes with chicken, cheese, avocado, and a creamy tomatillo dressing. It clocks in at around 600 calories and 40 grams of protein.
Gluten Free Considerations
Most of the chicken and sides are gluten-free. The main issue is cross-contamination with the flour tortillas. If you have celiac disease, you should inform the cashier. They will change their gloves and use a clean prep area.
The rice, beans, and corn are all naturally gluten-free. The chips are fried in a dedicated fryer at most locations, but you should verify this with the manager on duty. The flour tortillas are the only major source of gluten on the menu.
Comparing Value To Competitors
How does this pricing stack up against other fast-casual Mexican chains? Generally, El Pollo Loco is slightly cheaper than Chipotle but more expensive than Taco Bell. You are paying for the grilled chicken quality, which is higher than standard fast food.
A comparable chicken burrito at Chipotle will run you about $10.50. Here, the same burrito is about $8.79. That is a savings of nearly two dollars. The portion sizes are also generous, so you are getting good value for the money.
The family meals are where the value really shines. A whole chicken at $12.99 is a steal compared to buying raw chicken at the grocery store and cooking it yourself. You are paying for the convenience and the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the common questions people ask about the pricing and menu structure. These answers should help you navigate your next visit without any surprises.
Does El Pollo Loco Have A Secret Menu?
There is no official secret menu, but you can customize almost anything. You can ask for a “double chicken” bowl or add extra avocado for a small fee. The staff is generally accommodating to special requests.
Are The Prices The Same In Every State?
No, prices vary by location. Franchise owners set their own prices based on local costs. Stores in California and New York will be more expensive than stores in Texas or Arizona. Check the app for local pricing.
Can I Get A Discount For Ordering Online?
Yes, online ordering often has exclusive deals. The website and app frequently offer 20% off your first online order. You can also schedule pick-up in advance to skip the line.
What Is The Most Popular Item On The Menu?
The ¼ Chicken Combo with dark meat is the best seller. The Chicken Avocado Burrito is also extremely popular. If you are unsure what to get, you cannot go wrong with the classic chicken plate.
Are There Any Vegetarian Options?
There are limited vegetarian options. You can get a bean and cheese burrito or a cheese quesadilla. The sides like rice, beans, and corn are all vegetarian. The guacamole is also a good addition.
Final Thoughts On Pricing And Value
El Pollo Loco remains a strong option for affordable, flame-grilled meals. The quality of the chicken is consistently good, and the prices are fair for what you receive. The key is to use the app and look for value menu items to maximize your savings.
Next time you are hungry, you know exactly what to expect. Bring a friend and split the 12-piece meal. You will leave full and satisfied without spending a fortune. The fire-grilled flavor is why people keep coming back, and the pricing keeps it accessible for regular visits.
Go ahead and check your local menu for the daily specials. You might find a deal that makes your meal even cheaper. Enjoy the chicken, and do not forget the green salsa.