Healthy Options & Nutrition Guide
High-Protein Menu Items
These items pack a lot of protein, ideal if you’re focusing on muscle building, recovery, or a satisfying meal.
| Menu Item | Approx Protein |
|---|---|
| Double Chicken Bowl | ~74g+ |
| Double Chicken Avocado Salad | ~46–51g |
| Original Pollo Bowl | ~41–45g |
| Street Corn Chicken Bowl | ~42–44g |
| Grande Avocado Chicken Bowl | ~49g |
| Fire-Grilled Chicken Breast (plain) | ~34g |
| Chicken Tacos al Carbón (3) | ~31g |
- Bowls and salads with “double chicken” are some of the highest-protein options.
- Grilled chicken pieces (breast, leg, thigh) are excellent lean protein sources.
Under 500 Calories Meals
| Item | Approx Calories | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Double Chicken Avocado Salad | ~350–380 cal | Highest protein/calorie ratio |
| Small Chicken Tortilla Soup | ~240 cal | Light and savory |
| Fire-Grilled Chicken Breast | ~200 cal | Leanest cut |
| Black Bean Bowl (chicken) | ~460 cal | High fiber option |
| Avocado Tortilla Wrap (chicken) | ~480 cal | Portable meal |
Nutrition Facts Snapshot
Bowls & Salads
| Item | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original Pollo Bowl | ~530–580 | ~41g | ~80g | ~10g |
| Double Chicken Bowl | ~890–940 | ~74g | ~86g | ~30g |
| Double Chicken Avocado Salad | ~350–370 | ~46g | ~11g | ~12g |
Fire-Grilled Chicken (Plain Cuts)
| Cut | Calories | Protein | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breast | ~200 cal | ~34g | ~8g |
| Thigh | ~200 cal | ~21g | ~12g |
| Leg | ~110 cal | ~11g | ~7g |
| Wing | ~70 cal | ~10g | ~3g |
Sides (Small Portions)
| Side | Calories | Protein |
|---|---|---|
| Pinto Beans | ~140 cal | ~7g |
| Rice (small) | ~160 cal | ~3g |
| Broccoli | ~30 cal | ~2g |
| Loco Side Salad | ~170 cal | ~3g |
Best El Pollo Loco Items
Most Popular Menu Picks
These are classic and beloved items that keep showing up as fan favorites and top sellers:
Fan Favorites
- Original Pollo Bowl® – A signature choice with fire-grilled chicken, rice, beans, pico de gallo, and salsa — frequently ranked #1.
- Double Chicken Avocado Salad – A protein-packed, fresher salad that’s often popular with health-minded diners.
- Shredded Chicken Nachos – A crowd-pleaser because of its fully loaded toppings and rich flavor.
- Chipotle Chicken Avocado Burrito – A solid favorite for those seeking a hearty, portable meal.
- Chicken Taco al Carbon – Simple, fire-grilled perfection and highly ordered.
- Mashed Potatoes & Gravy – Surprisingly high in popularity among sides.
Best Value Combos & Deals
$5 Value Menu Items
These are the most popular inexpensive picks for keeping costs low while staying full:
- Original Pollo Bowl (Value Price)
- Two Tacos Deal (Chicken Tacos)
- Chicken Avocado Taco
- Chicken Taquitos with Guacamole
- Small Chicken Tortilla Soup
Combo Meals & Smart Picks
Combo meals are the best way to get a complete meal including an entrée, sides, and a drink:
- 2-Piece Chicken Combo – Includes a leg and thigh; a perfectly balanced portion.
- 3-Piece Chicken Combo – A slightly larger combo ideal for a filling lunch or dinner.
- 4-Piece Mixed Combo – The ultimate choice for a high-protein, hearty meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does El Pollo Loco offer a senior discount?
Yes, most El Pollo Loco locations offer a 10% discount for seniors aged 60 and older. It is always recommended to ask your local cashier before ordering as participation may vary by franchise.
What is the most popular item on the El Pollo Loco menu?
The Original Pollo Bowl® is widely considered the top-selling item. It features fire-grilled chicken, pinto beans, rice, pico de gallo, onions, and cilantro.
Are the $5 value menu items still available in 2026?
Yes, El Pollo Loco continues to offer a rotating selection of $5 value items, which typically includes the Classic Chicken Burrito, Chicken Taquitos, and Original Pollo Bowl at many participating locations.
Does El Pollo Loco have keto-friendly options?
Absolutely. The Double Chicken Avocado Salad and individual pieces of fire-grilled chicken (without tortillas or rice) are popular low-carb and keto-friendly choices.
What makes the chicken at El Pollo Loco unique?
The chicken is citrus-marinated for several hours and then flame-grilled over an open fire by Grill Masters, rather than being fried or baked.