Chipotle has reintroduced its Pollo Asado main meat with an updated recipe and simultaneously launched a new side dish, Chili Lime Chips. The updated Pollo Asado, first tested in November 2021, is described as freshly grilled adobo chicken seasoned with garlic, Mexican spices, and cilantro, finished with citrus and lime for a savory, smoky profile. This marks the first chicken menu innovation in the company's 29-year history.
The new Chili Lime Chips were developed in response to a viral customer trend where patrons were observed dipping store-bought seasoned chips into their Chipotle meals, creating a "walking taco" experience. Chipotle's chief brand officer, Fernando Machado, stated that the company aimed to create its own version of the popular customer hack, emphasizing that the chips contain no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Chipotle Rewards members received early access to the Chili Lime Chips starting August 31, with the chips rolling out to all customers on September 4. The Pollo Asado returned to menus on August 31.
Nevielle Panthaky, senior vice president of culinary at Chipotle, suggested pairing the Pollo Asado bowl with white rice, black beans, roasted chili-corn salsa, and guacamole, adding the Chili Lime Chips for extra crunch and zest. Panthaky noted that the new recipe's citrus finish complements the smoky notes of the chicken and the tangy seasoning of the chips.
In related news, a separate social media trend highlighted a method for maximizing Chipotle orders. Digital creator Tom Yanoshik shared a technique involving ordering a bowl with a side tortilla, allowing customers to construct a burrito with roughly half of the bowl's contents, effectively creating two meals from a single order.