El Pollo Loco Menu Prices & Delicious Choices
Looking for El Pollo Loco menu prices and calories? Here’s the updated list so you can plan your next meal with confidence. El Pollo Loco menu prices give a clear picture: most individual entrees range from about $6 to $12, while family meals and catering options scale higher depending on size and location.
El Pollo Loco is a U.S.-based fast-casual chain known for fire-grilled, citrus-marinated chicken. They offer bowls, burritos, tacos, salads, sides, and family meals. This introduction summarizes what readers will find: current el pollo loco prices, notable el pollo loco menu items, and where to find nutrition and deal details for 2025. Local taxes and regional pricing can change totals, but the ranges and item types below reflect typical U.S. offerings.
The page that follows breaks the menu into shopper-friendly sections: chicken meals and family options, tacos and burritos, bowls and salads, plus sides, drinks, and desserts. It also highlights specials, rewards, and catering. Nutrition facts—calories, protein, fat, and carbs—appear with many entries so you can balance taste and health.
Readers who want quick decisions will appreciate the concise price bands and calorie callouts. Those planning group meals can jump to family and catering sections for bundle pricing. If you care about customization, the article explains how add-ons, salsas, and upgrades affect final el pollo loco prices.
Start exploring the menu sections to find grilled chicken combos, signature burritos, and lighter bowls. Each category lists popular el pollo loco menu items and shows how size, sides, and promotions influence what you pay. By the end, you’ll know where to save, what to splurge on, and which choices best match your dietary needs.
Overview of El Pollo Loco and L.A. Mex Flavor
Want to know what makes El Pollo Loco’s menu special? This brief overview will give you a glimpse into the brand’s roots and cooking style. It explains how these elements shape the menu items you see today.
Brand background and cooking method
El Pollo Loco has its roots in Sinaloa and Southern California. It’s known for a unique marinade of citrus, garlic, and spices. The chicken is never frozen and is marinated fresh every day.
Their cooking method is special. They use a custom open-flame grill to roast chicken for about 55 minutes. Each order is carved to serve in bowls, tacos, burritos, salads, and family meals.
The brand focuses on hand-prepared touches. They chop fresh produce and slice Hass avocados for guacamole and spreads. This ensures consistent flavor in their whole chickens, à la carte pieces, family packs, bowls, and tacos.
What L.A. Mex means for menu choices
L.A. Mex combines Southern California freshness with Mexican flavors. It offers healthier options like fire-grilled chicken, bowls, and salads. But it also has indulgent choices like overstuffed quesadillas and loaded nachos.
Menus cater to different diets. Grilled chicken is great for paleo diets, salads and sides are good for vegetarians. You can also add avocado or swap proteins for shrimp. Fresh salsas add a burst of flavor to tacos, tostadas, and bowls.
The menu includes chicken à la carte, multi-piece meals, whole chickens, family bundles, bowls, burritos, tacos, tostadas, and salads. It also has quesadillas and nachos, sides and sauces, snacks and sweets, drinks, and kids meals. This variety shows the L.A. Mex goal of balancing light, California-inspired dishes with rich, comforting flavors.
el pollo loco menu prices
Want to know the latest prices at El Pollo Loco? This section gives you a breakdown of menu prices by category. It also explains why prices can change based on location and promotions. Use this guide to compare meals, plan orders for your family, or find the best deals.
Core chicken items. Single-piece chicken pieces cost between $2.19 and $4.39. They have about 80–220 calories. Two-piece and multi-piece meals vary in price, with a 2PC Meal around $9.59–$10.59. A 4PC half-chicken meal is about $13.49, and a whole chicken is $19.49.
Family and feast options. Family packs are great for groups. An 8PC pack is $26.69, a 12PC pack is $38.49, and a 16PC pack is $45.19. Fam Feast bundles offer leg & thigh or mixed pieces, starting at $16.49 for 8PC and going up to $34.49 for mixed packs.
Burritos, bowls, and combos. For lighter options, try the BRC Burrito at $2.99 (410 cal) or the Classic Chicken Burrito at $4.89 (480 cal). Premium burritos with extra toppings can cost up to $9.99 and have over 1,000 calories. Bowls start at $5.00 for the Original Pollo Bowl and go up to $11.39 for double-chicken bowls.
Combo pricing and promoted meals. Fire-grilled entrée combos are about $5.99 for just the entrée. A $7.99 Meal Deal bundles an entrée with a side and drink, with calories ranging from 890 to 1,170. Loco Rewards members get special deals and discounts, affecting the final cost.
Sides, add-ons and small plates. Small sides are $4.99, while large sides are $6.49. Chips & Guacamole and Chips & Queso Blanco come in small and regular sizes, with regular sizes at $5.29. Add-ons like Queso Blanco or guacamole cost $1.59–$3.99.
How location and promotions affect prices
Prices listed are for 2025 and are systemwide examples. Local taxes, labor costs, and state regulations can change prices. Urban areas tend to have higher prices than suburban or rural areas.
Promotions can make items seem more affordable. Limited-time bowls, seasonal entries, and the $7.99 Meal Deal attract more customers. Loco Rewards members get points and discounts, which can lower the cost. Catering and family-feast prices vary by market, so check your local store for the best deals.
| Category | Typical Price Range | Example Calories | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken à la carte pieces | $2.19–$4.39 | 80–220 cal | Good for snacks or add-ons |
| 2–4 Piece Meals | $9.59–$13.49 | Varies by cut | Includes side and sometimes a drink |
| Family Meals (8–16 PC) | $26.69–$45.19 | Serves 3–8+ | Value for groups |
| Burritos & Bowls | $2.99–$11.39 | 410–940 cal | Premium add-ons raise price |
| Combo Promotions | $5.99–$7.99 (common) | 890–1,170 cal (meal deals) | Often featured in app offers |
| Sides & Add-ons | $1.59–$6.49 | Varies | Chips & Guac / Queso priced separately |
| Catering & Feasts | Varies by market | Portions for 10–24 | Call local store for accurate quotes |
Fire-grilled chicken meals and family options
El Pollo Loco focuses on charred, citrus-marinated chicken. You can make a quick meal for one or feed a group with various options. This section explains the different formats, combos, and nutrition to see why fire-grilled chicken meals are great value.
Chicken formats and popular combos
There are single-piece orders and whole birds to choose from. You can pick 2PC, 3PC, or 4PC meals with Leg & Thigh or Breast & Wing. A Chicken Meal for Two costs $13.49 and has 1400–2260 calories.
Whole Chicken is $19.49 and has 740–1590 calories. Chicken à la carte pieces cost between $2.19 and $4.39. These pieces have 80–220 calories, helping you control your meal’s size and calories.
Popular value combos include the Fam Feast. The Leg & Thigh Fam Feast is $29.99, and the Mixed Fam Feast is $34.49. These family-style combos come with large sides, tortillas or chips, and salsas for easy sharing.
Family meal structure and choices
Family packs come in 8PC, 12PC, and 16PC sizes. Each bundle includes tortillas (corn or flour) or chips, plus large sides and salsas. Family meals are offered as Leg & Thigh only or Mixed to suit preferences. Typical calorie totals range roughly from 1470 for smaller packs up to about 7130 for the biggest with sides included.
| Item | Price | Typical Calories | Vegan/Keto/Gluten-Free Options | Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2PC Meal (Leg & Thigh) | $7.99–$9.49 | 430–820 | Keto-friendly if skipping tortillas | Dairy in some sides; check salsa ingredients |
| 3PC Meal (Mixed) | $9.49–$11.99 | 600–1100 | Can be lower-carb with salads | Gluten in flour tortillas; dairy in queso |
| Chicken Meal for Two | $13.49 | 1400–2260 | Options to reduce carbs | May contain dairy, wheat in sides |
| Whole Chicken | $19.49 | 740–1590 | Good for protein-focused meals | Allergens depend on chosen sides |
| Fam Feast (Leg & Thigh) | $29.99 | ~1470–3600 | Feeds 3–5 depending on appetite | Contains wheat in tortillas; dairy in add-ons |
| Fam Feast (Mixed) | $34.49 | ~1800–7130 | Flexible for groups | Check for allergens in sides and sauces |
Nutrition and serving sizes to justify price
Individual piece nutrition shows clear protein value. A Leg provides about 110 calories and 11g protein. A Thigh runs near 200 calories with 21g protein. A Breast delivers approximately 200 calories and 34g protein. A Wing sits around 70 calories with 10g protein.
Meals include sides that push totals higher. A 2PC meal can range roughly 430–1310 calories depending on whether you pick rice, beans, chips, or a salad. Family meals add bulk with tortillas, salsas, and large sides, making the cost per person competitive with other catering or takeout options.
Customization and add-ons
- Add guacamole or queso blanco to increase flavor and calories per serving.
- Extra sides let you stretch portions for more guests.
- Ordering chicken pieces à la carte lets you match appetite and control cost.
For shoppers weighing price against portions, el pollo loco family meals and el pollo loco menu combos offer clear choices. Pick a family pack for gatherings or choose targeted fire-grilled chicken meals when you want high protein with charred flavor.
Tacos, burritos, and bowls: combos and customization
Want a quick guide to make a great meal at El Pollo Loco? This section covers burrito and bowl highlights. It also shows how combos and meal deals let you mix and match. You’ll find prices, calories, and swap options to choose the best value.
El Pollo Loco’s signature burritos range from affordable to premium. The BRC Burrito (original) costs between $2.99 and $4.89 and has about 410 calories. The Classic Chicken Burrito is priced at $4.89 and has around 480 calories.
Premium burritos with guacamole or queso have more calories and cost about $9.99. They offer 790–1020 calories.
The Original Pollo Bowl is a lean choice at about $5.00 and 580 calories. It has chopped chicken leg, rice, pinto beans, salsa fresca, onion, and cilantro. For higher protein, the Double Chicken Bowl has 930–940 calories and about 74g of protein.
The Grande Avocado Chicken Bowl is a richer option, priced near $9.99 and about 790 calories.
Combos offer entrée-only pricing and full combos. Many locations have entrée-only deals at $5.99. Full combo pricing is often $7.99, pairing an entrée with a side and a drink.
Combos let you choose chips or tortillas and a beverage. Add-ons like guacamole, queso blanco, or shrimp are available at extra cost.
Calories and protein vary by customization. The Original Pollo Bowl has 580 calories and 41g protein. Upgrading to double chicken raises calories and protein substantially. Adding guacamole or queso to burritos increases calories into the higher premium range while boosting flavor and fat content.
| Item | Price | Calories | Protein | Dietary Notes | Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BRC Burrito (original) | $2.99–$4.89 | 410 | ~22g | Budget-friendly | Dairy possible |
| Classic Chicken Burrito | $4.89 | 480 | ~28g | Balanced protein | Dairy possible, wheat |
| Premium Burritos (Guacamole/Queso) | ~$9.99 | 790–1020 | 30–50g | Higher calories, rich fats | Dairy, avocado |
| Original Pollo Bowl | $5.00 | 580 | 41g | Lean option, high protein | Onion, cilantro |
| Grande Avocado Chicken Bowl | $9.99 | 790 | ~45g | Higher fat from avocado | Avocado, dairy possible |
| Double Chicken Bowl | $11.39 | 930–940 | ~74g | High-protein choice | Onion, cilantro |
| $5.99 Entrée-Only Combos | $5.99 | Varies | Varies | Limited sides at this price | Depends on entrée |
| $7.99 Meal Deal | $7.99 | Varies | Varies | Entrée + side or drink | Depends on selections |
To save money, look for deals tied to the $7.99 Meal Deal or local promotions. For flexible choices, review combos to see what swaps are allowed. When comparing items, check options for protein swaps, add-ons, and side choices that affect both price and nutrition.
Tostadas, salads, quesadillas, and loco favorites
Check out lighter picks and indulgent bites on the el pollo loco menu. You’ll find everything from Frescas salads to hearty quesadillas and nachos. Each dish comes with price and calorie info, so you can choose based on taste and health.
Salads and tostadas are great for protein-packed meals. The Citrus Avocado Fresca Salad is $11.59 and has 350 calories. The Double Chicken Avocado Salad is $11.79, with 350 calories and 51g of protein.
The Classic Tostada is $10.39 and has 830 calories. The Double Chicken Tostada is $11.99 and has about 1000 calories.
Most tostadas come with lettuce, pico de gallo, black beans, and chicken. You can get them a la carte or in combos. Frescas salads and wraps are new, lighter options for those watching calories but wanting flavor.
Quesadillas and nachos are for those who love to indulge. The Creamy Chipotle Quesadilla is $7.49 and has 930 calories. The Salsa Verde Quesadilla is $7.49 and has 820 calories.
A Cheese Quesadilla costs $2.29 and has 420 calories. Shredded Chicken Nachos are $9.59 and have 1060–1090 calories. The Chicken Avocado Stuffed Quesadilla has about 960 calories and is high in fat and protein.
| Item | Price | Calories | Vegan/Keto/Gluten-Free Options | Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Citrus Avocado Fresca Salad | $11.59 | 350 | Not vegan; can be modified for lower-carb; not gluten-free | Dairy (dressing), avocado |
| Double Chicken Avocado Salad | $11.79 | 350 | High-protein; not vegan; keto-friendly with modifications | Dairy, avocado |
| Classic Tostada | $10.39 | 830 | Not vegan; not keto; can request no cheese for lower dairy | Wheat (tostada shell), dairy, legumes |
| Double Chicken Tostada | $11.99 | 1000 | Not vegan; high-protein option | Wheat, dairy, legumes |
| Creamy Chipotle Quesadilla | $7.49 | 930 | Not vegan; can be lower-carb if eaten without tortilla | Dairy, wheat |
| Salsa Verde Quesadilla | $7.49 | 820 | Not vegan; customizable | Dairy, wheat |
| Cheese Quesadilla | $2.29 | 420 | Vegetarian; not vegan | Dairy, wheat |
| Shredded Chicken Nachos | $9.59 | 1060–1090 | Not vegan; very high calorie | Dairy, wheat, legumes |
| Chicken Avocado Stuffed Quesadilla | Market price | ~960 | Not vegan; very high fat/protein | Dairy, wheat, avocado |
Look for el pollo loco menu specials that change with the seasons. Frescas salads and wraps are new, lighter choices. Specials often include combo deals that pair a salad or tostada with a side and drink.
For those choosing by nutrition, salads like the Double Chicken Avocado Salad show how a modest calorie total can deliver big protein. For sharing or a treat, quesadillas and nachos are among the favorites for their bold flavors.
Sides, salsas, snacks, sweets, and drinks — add-ons that matter
Choosing the right add-ons can make a meal better. El Pollo Loco offers many sides like rice, beans, and mac & cheese. Small portions are $4.99, and large ones are $6.49. You can also get a two-tortilla pack for $0.79.
There are many snack options. Small chips & guacamole cost $3.49, and regular is $5.29. Chips & Queso Blanco have similar prices. A Queso Blanco side is $1.59, and guacamole add-ons are $2.99 and $3.99.
Light salsas add flavor without many calories. Salsa Fresca has 5 calories, Avocado Salsa has 20, and Salsa Roja has 15. Mango Habanero, Creamy Cilantro, and Creamy Chipotle sauces offer different tastes.
Drinks and desserts complete your meal. A regular fountain drink is $3.19, and large is $3.39. Bottled water is also $3.19. Churros are $2.19 for one or $3.19 for two. Caramel flan is $3.49, and a churros plus dip bundle is $3.99.
Hearty snacks like Chicken Tortilla Soup are available. These extras often appear in promotions and bundles.
| Item | Price | Calories | Dietary Notes | Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Rice / Pinto Beans / Mac & Cheese / Mashed Potatoes / Broccoli / Corn / Coleslaw / Side Salad | $4.99 | Varies (80–360) | Vegetarian options available; mac & cheese contains dairy | Dairy, possible cross-contact |
| Large versions of above sides | $6.49 | Varies (160–720) | Higher calories; shareable | Dairy, possible cross-contact |
| Chips & Guacamole (Small / Regular) | $3.49 / $5.29 | 490 / 980–990 | Gluten-free; vegan if no cross-contact | Avocado; possible cross-contact |
| Chips & Queso Blanco (Small / Regular) | $3.49 / $5.29 | 540 / 1080 | Not vegan; contains dairy | Dairy |
| Queso Blanco side | $1.59 | ~120 | Dairy-based add-on | Dairy |
| Guacamole add-on (Small / Regular) | $2.99 / $3.99 | ~80 / ~160 | Vegan; gluten-free | Avocado |
| Salsa Fresca / Avocado Salsa / Salsa Roja | Free to small charge in some locations | 5 / 20 / 15 | Low-cal flavor boosters | May contain ingredients with cross-contact risk |
| Regular Drink / Large Drink / Bottled Water | $3.19 / $3.39 / $3.19 | 0–200 / 0–310 / 0 | Soda choices and water available | None typical |
| Cinnamon Churro (1 / 2) / Flan / Churros + Dip Bundle | $2.19 / $3.19 / $3.49 / $3.99 | 150 / 300 / 230 / ~360 | Sweet finish; not gluten-free | Gluten, dairy possible |
| Chicken Tortilla Soup | $5.39 | 240 | Higher protein starter | Dairy possible |
Knowing about allergens is important. Many sides have dairy or gluten. There’s a risk of cross-contact with avocado and other ingredients. Always check nutrition and allergen details before ordering.
Look for deals on sides, snacks, and drinks. Limited-time bundles can save you money by pairing a main with extras.
Specials, limited-time offers, catering, and rewards
El Pollo Loco offers value and new items regularly. This lets you plan meals that taste great and save money. Use the app to find daily deals and keep your budget in check.
Common specials and limited-time items
Recently, a $7.99 Meal Deal was introduced. It has about 890 to 1,170 calories, depending on your choice. Limited burrito bowls, like the Street Corn Double Chicken Burrito Bowl, cost around $11.99 and have about 1,080 calories.
Some bowls are just $5.00 during promotions. For example, the Street Corn Chicken Pollo Bowl and Shredded Chicken & Cheese Pollo Bowl have about 600 and 590 calories. Frescas Salads & Wraps also offer lighter options, like the Citrus Avocado Fresca Salad & Wrap.
Catering and rewards savings
Catering packages are perfect for office lunches or small events. They serve 10–24 people. You can choose from large chicken portions, sides, tortillas, chips, and salsas. Prices adjust based on the number of guests and add-ons.
The Loco Rewards app rewards you for coming back. You earn points on every purchase and can use them for free food or menu items. Exclusive deals often appear in the app. Check it for current offers and specials before ordering.
| Offer | Typical Price | Calories | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| $7.99 Meal Deal | $7.99 | 890–1,170 | Everyday value meal for single diners |
| Limited Burrito Bowls | $11.99 | ~1,080 | Shared flavor boost or meat-forward option |
| Promotional $5 Bowls | $5.00 | 590–600 | Budget pick for lighter entrées |
| Frescas Salads & Wraps | $6.99–$9.99 | 350–650 | Lower-calorie and fresh choices |
| Catering: Family Feast / Pollo Fiesta | Varies by headcount | Per person varies | Events, meetings, group meals |
Try new items with el pollo loco menu offers. Track your points for rewards and app-only deals. This can save you money on catering or get you free sides with repeat buys.
Healthy options, nutrition details, and value picks
Looking for lighter choices that satisfy? El Pollo Loco has grilled protein and buildable plates for calorie control and protein goals. Below are lower-calorie, high-protein picks and budget-friendly options for you to choose from.
Best menu items for lower calories and higher protein:
- Original Pollo Bowl — 580 calories, 41 g protein. Chopped chicken leg, rice, pinto beans, salsa fresca, diced onion, cilantro.
- Double Chicken Avocado Salad — 350 calories, 51 g protein. Top pick for high protein with modest calories.
- Chicken al Carbón Taco (entrée style) — about 170 calories, ~15 g protein. A lean taco option when you skip heavy sauces.
- Chicken breast piece — ~200 calories, 34 g protein. Best choice for a higher protein-to-fat ratio.
- Chicken wing — ~70 calories, 10 g protein. Use for small portions or mix into salads for flavor.
Tips to customize for health and budget:
- Swap large sides for small sides or extra salsa to cut calories and cost.
- Choose breast over thigh to reduce fat and boost protein density.
- Skip queso and sour cream; add avocado sparingly for healthy fats without excess calories.
- Order bowls or salads instead of quesadillas or nachos to lower saturated fat intake.
- Buy chicken à la carte pieces to control portions and create DIY bowls that fit your budget.
Dietary suitability notes:
- Gluten-free: Many bowls and salads can be gluten-free if you omit tortillas and wheat-based items. Ask about cross-contact.
- Keto: Grilled chicken and low-carb sides work well. Avoid rice, tortillas, and chips to stay low-carb.
- Vegan: Options are limited. Sides like broccoli and salsa fresca are vegan-friendly but verify prep methods.
Value picks that balance nutrition and price:
| Item | Price (approx.) | Calories | Protein | Dietary Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BRC Burrito | $2.99–$4.89 | 410 | ~20 g | Budget-friendly; good for kids or light meals |
| Original Pollo Bowl | $5.00 | 580 | 41 g | Balanced plate with rice and beans; filling protein |
| Double Chicken Avocado Salad | $6.50–$8.50 | 350 | 51 g | High protein, lower calories; skip dressing to reduce calories |
| Chicken Breast à la Carte | $2.00–$4.00 | 200 | 34 g | Use in DIY bowls or salads to save money |
Consider checking for el pollo loco menu discounts when you plan visits. Promotions or rewards can drop the cost of bowls and salads, making healthy menu el pollo loco choices more affordable. Look for combo deals that keep calories in check and dollars low.
For flexible eating, scan the el pollo loco menu options and ask staff about simple swaps. Small changes let you meet protein goals, manage calories, and stick to a budget without losing flavor.
Conclusion
El Pollo Loco’s 2025 menu focuses on citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken. It comes with a variety of bowls, burritos, tacos, salads, family meals, and Frescas. Prices range from about $2.99 for BRC burritos to around $45.19 for family bundles.
They also offer Meal Deals for about $7.99. This variety makes it easy to find something for any occasion, from a quick lunch to a family dinner.
Use the Loco Rewards app for savings and convenience. It helps you stack deals and earn points for free items. You can choose from options like the Original Pollo Bowl or the Double Chicken Avocado Salad.
These meals are high in protein but have moderate calories. You can also customize your meal to fit your dietary needs, like keto or gluten-free.
The article provides tables with nutrition information. This makes it easy to compare different menu items.
Consider family meals or catering for group savings. Keep an eye out for limited-time specials that add variety to the menu. Prices and nutrition data are based on 2025 menu information and may change locally or with promotions.
Use the guide’s structured dietary breakdowns and menu tables. This way, you can confidently choose items that fit your taste, budget, and dietary needs.
