El Pollo Loco $5 Menu: Delicious Deals!
Looking for El Pollo Loco $5 Menu with Prices and Calories? Here’s the updated guide so you can plan your next meal with confidence.
El Pollo Loco is famous for its citrus-marinated, flame-grilled chicken. They offer handcrafted entrees in over 480 restaurants across California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Utah, and Louisiana. Their $5 menu features affordable, Mexican-inspired dishes perfect for busy days and tight budgets.
The $5 menu includes items like handmade Chicken Taquitos, Chicken Tacos al Carbón, Loco Burrito, Grilled Chicken Loco Salad, and Chicken Nachos. Each dish combines fresh ingredients and fire-grilled flavor at a great price. It’s perfect for families, students, and anyone looking for a quick lunch.
Why choose the el pollo loco value menu? It offers fresh salsas, shredded ranchero chicken, and grill-charred texture for bold flavors without high prices. You can pick from quick tacos, portable burritos, or shareable nachos that feel custom-made.
Menu details will include exact prices and calorie snapshots later, plus a full dietary breakdown in table form. For now, note these core $5 price points: Handmade Chicken Taquitos — $5.00; Chicken Tacos al Carbón — $5.00; Loco Burrito — $5.00; Grilled Chicken Loco Salad — $5.00; Chicken Nachos — $5.00.
The el pollo loco affordable meal choices are great on their own or as part of a combo. Craveable Combos add chips and a drink for a small extra charge, making a single $5 entree into a filling meal. Keep an eye out for regional variations and limited-time rollouts to find the best $5 deals.
This guide focuses on what you can expect from the $5 selections: clear prices, simple ingredient notes, and practical reasons to choose one item over another. Short, scannable sections ahead will list calories, allergen flags, and vegan/keto/gluten-free cues so we can compare options quickly and confidently.
Next sections break down each $5 item, Craveable Combo specifics, nutrition highlights, and tips for stretching a budget without sacrificing flavor. Use the el pollo loco $5 specials to plan lunch runs, family dinners, or late-night snacks while keeping costs predictable and taste high.
Introduction to the El Pollo Loco $5 Menu
Looking for a quick, tasty meal that won’t break the bank? El Pollo Loco has the solution with their $5 menu. It offers an entrée, chips, and a drink for just five dollars. The goal is to provide fresh, satisfying options for lunch, dinner, or a snack without complicated choices.
Overview of the $5 value concept
The $5 value concept focuses on simple combos. Each combo includes an entrée with classic sides. This ensures consistent portion sizes and predictable pricing.
This makes the el pollo loco value menu a great choice for those in a hurry. It’s perfect for families, students, and anyone looking for budget-friendly options.
Why El Pollo Loco emphasizes fresh, fire-grilled chicken
El Pollo Loco is known for its citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken. This method adds smoky flavor and keeps the meat lean. The chicken is cooked every day to ensure freshness.
Executive chefs also focus on hand-prepared elements. This includes hand-shredded ranchero chicken and hand-sliced avocados for guacamole. It’s all about maintaining quality, even at value pricing.
Where the $5 offerings fit in the broader El Pollo Loco menu
The $5 menu sits alongside bowls, burritos, tacos, salads, and limited-time promotions. It’s a great way to try the brand’s staples without spending a lot. The value lineup also works with Loco Rewards and regional specials.
This allows loyal guests to mix budget choices with bigger menu items. It’s a flexible way to enjoy El Pollo Loco without breaking the bank.
| Feature | What it Means | Customer Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Combo Structure | Entrée + chips + drink | Clear price, complete quick meal |
| Signature Protein | Citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken | Bold flavor with lean protein |
| Menu Placement | Alongside bowls, burritos, tacos | Easy upgrade path to larger meals |
| Promotions | Works with Loco Rewards and regional deals | Extra savings and seasonal variety |
| Audience | Families, students, lunch crowds | Affordable, quick dining choice |
What’s on the el pollo loco $5 menu
Looking for an easy way to compare the most popular el pollo loco $5 meal options? This section breaks down common picks, the Craveable Combos rollout, and quick pricing and calorie snapshots so you can choose with confidence.
The el pollo loco $5 menu includes handhelds and bowls. You can choose from taquitos, tacos, burritos, bowls, and nachos. Each item features fire-grilled chicken or shredded ranchero chicken with simple, fresh toppings.
Common $5 items
- Original Pollo Bowl® — a hearty bowl with fire-grilled chicken and rice.
- Shredded Chicken & Cheese Pollo Bowl® — creamy, savory and filling.
- Classic Chicken Burrito — a portable favorite with beans and pico de gallo.
- Taco al Carbón (3 street tacos) — three small tacos with diced onion and cilantro.
- Chicken Taquitos (with guacamole) — rolled and crisped, served with guac.
- Chicken Nachos — piled high with chicken, cheese, and jalapeños.
Craveable Combos rollout details
On September 3, 2018, El Pollo Loco launched four $5 entrées as part of the Craveable Combos. Each combo included chips and a drink to complete the value.
- Handmade Chicken Taquitos — three handrolled taquitos with shredded ranchero chicken, handmade guacamole, creamy cilantro dressing, pico de gallo, and cilantro.
- Loco Burrito — fire-grilled chicken, beans, cabbage, cheese, creamy cilantro dressing, and pico de gallo in a large tortilla.
- Grilled Chicken Loco Salad — fire-grilled chicken over lettuce with cotija, tortilla strips, creamy cilantro dressing, and pico de gallo.
- Chicken Tacos al Carbón — three tacos with fire-grilled chicken, diced onions, and cilantro for a classic street-style bite.
Pricing and calorie snapshots
Representative prices and calories help you balance taste and nutrition when picking from el pollo loco $5 specials. The figures below reflect common menu values for quick comparison.
| Item | Price | Calories | Dietary Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original Pollo Bowl® | $5 | 580 cal | Contains dairy; not gluten-free if tortilla strips added |
| Shredded Chicken & Cheese Pollo Bowl® | $5 | 590 cal | Higher sodium; contains dairy |
| Classic Chicken Burrito | $5 | 480 cal | Can be customized to reduce calories |
| Taco al Carbón (3) | $5 | 170 cal | Lower-calorie option; contains onion and cilantro |
| Chicken Taquitos (with guac) | $5 | 510 cal | Guacamole adds healthy fats; fried exterior ups calories |
| Chicken Nachos | $5 | 1,090 cal | High-calorie shareable; watch portion size |
These entries show how el pollo loco $5 meal options mix flavor and value. Fans praise the fire-grilled profile while watching calories on items like nachos. Use the mini breakdown to pick a fit for taste, budget, and nutrition among el pollo loco $5 specials.
Handmade Chicken Taquitos and Limited-Time Craveable Combos
Looking for a meal that’s easy to eat and full of flavor? El Pollo Loco has introduced hand-prepared items. These items focus on small-bite craftsmanship and combo convenience.
The taquitos are handrolled with shredded ranchero chicken. They’re topped with pico de gallo, creamy cilantro dressing, and handmade guacamole. This adds freshness and texture.
Craveable combos offer an entrée, chips, and a drink. This makes each combo a complete meal at a set price. The chips add crunch, while the drink balances the spicier flavors.
The items were first announced in Costa Mesa, Calif. on September 3, 2018. They feature Los Angeles–inspired flavors and fresh preparation. The campaign highlights these combos as special offers, fitting into el pollo loco $5 specials.
| Item | Price | Calories | Vegan/Keto/Gluten-Free Options | Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Handmade Chicken Taquitos | $5 (combo pricing may vary) | Approx. 420 per serving | Not vegan; not keto; not gluten-free | Dairy (creamy dressing), avocado, wheat (tortilla) |
| Loco Burrito (Craveable Combo) | $5–$6 | Approx. 610 | Customizable for keto by removing tortilla; no vegan base | Dairy, wheat, soy |
| Grilled Chicken Loco Salad (Combo) | $5–$6 | Approx. 320 | Can be keto-friendly with dressing swap; not vegan | Dairy (dressings), avocado |
| Chicken Tacos al Carbón (Craveable Combo) | $5 | Approx. 480 (two tacos + chips) | Not vegan; can be lower-carb with lettuce wrap | Wheat, dairy (optional toppings) |
Popular $5 meal options and nutritional highlights
Looking for hearty choices on a budget? The el pollo loco $5 menu has several protein-rich items. They balance flavor with value. Here’s a guide to nutrition and calorie details to help you choose meals that meet your goals.
![A brightly lit, contemporary diner interior with a large menu board prominently displaying the "El Pollo Loco $5 Menu" offerings. The menu features a variety of mouthwatering dishes, including a whole flame-grilled chicken, tacos, burritos, and sides. In the foreground, a plate showcases one of the $5 meal options, with a balanced arrangement of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. The overall scene conveys a sense of quality, affordability, and health-consciousness, aligning with the subject of the article's section on "Popular $5 meal options and nutritional highlights".](https://intermissiontavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/A-brightly-lit-contemporary-diner-interior-with-a-large-menu-board-prominently-displaying-the--1024x585.jpeg "A brightly lit, contemporary diner interior with a large menu board prominently displaying the "El Pollo Loco $5 Menu" offerings. The menu features a variety of mouthwatering dishes, including a whole flame-grilled chicken, tacos, burritos, and sides. In the foreground, a plate showcases one of the $5 meal options, with a balanced arrangement of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. The overall scene conveys a sense of quality, affordability, and health-consciousness, aligning with the subject of the article's section on "Popular $5 meal options and nutritional highlights".")
Original Pollo Bowl® vs. Shredded Chicken & Cheese Pollo Bowl®
The Original Pollo Bowl® is a great choice for protein with 580 calories. It has 10 g total fat, 2.5 g saturated fat, 83 g carbs, 9 g fiber, 3 g sugar, and 41 g protein. The Shredded Chicken & Cheese Pollo Bowl® has a bit more fat and protein at 590 calories. It has 11 g fat, 2.7 g saturated fat, 84 g carbs, 9 g fiber, 3 g sugar, and 42 g protein. Both bowls have a good protein-to-calorie ratio, making them good choices when looking at el pollo loco nutrition facts.
Classic Chicken Burrito and Taco al Carbón overview
The Classic Chicken Burrito has about 480 calories. It has 13 g fat, 5 g saturated fat, 66 g carbs, 5 g fiber, 2 g sugar, and 25 g protein. For a lighter snack, the Taco al Carbón (three street tacos) has roughly 170 calories. It has 6 g fat, 1.5 g saturated fat, 18 g carbs, 3 g fiber, 1 g sugar, and 12 g protein. These items show typical el pollo loco calorie counts for handhelds and tacos.
High-calorie items to watch and how to balance
Chicken Nachos are a high-calorie menu item at about 1,090 calories. They have 62 g fat, 22 g saturated fat, 92 g carbs, 8 g fiber, 6 g sugar, and 46 g protein. This dish is best for sharing or an occasional treat when tracking calories.
Simple swaps to lower calories
- Ask for dressing on the side and use less to cut fat.
- Replace tortilla strips or chips with extra pico de gallo or cilantro for volume with fewer calories.
- Choose tacos or bowls over nachos to improve protein-to-calorie balance.
| Item | Price | Calories | Protein | Dietary Notes / Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original Pollo Bowl® | $5 (value pricing) | 580 | 41 g | Contains dairy in some dressings; gluten-free if tortilla removed |
| Shredded Chicken & Cheese Pollo Bowl® | $5 (value pricing) | 590 | 42 g | Contains dairy; customizable for lower fat |
| Classic Chicken Burrito | $5 | 480 | 25 g | Contains gluten; check for dairy in add-ons |
| Taco al Carbón (3) | $5 | 170 | 12 g | Lower-calorie choice; corn tortillas may be gluten-free |
| Chicken Nachos | Varies | 1,090 | 46 g | High in fat; contains dairy and gluten in chips |
For quick reference, these figures reflect typical el pollo loco nutrition values and el pollo loco calorie counts. Use the table to compare items and build a satisfying meal that fits your budget and appetite.
When trying items from the el pollo loco $5 meal options, small customizations can cut calories without sacrificing flavor. Swap heavy dressings, add fresh salsas, and favor bowls or tacos for better macros.
How the $5 menu delivers value for budget-conscious diners
Looking for meals that won’t empty your wallet? El Pollo Loco’s $5 menu is perfect for families, students, and those grabbing lunch on the go. It offers great value with familiar dishes that are easy to order in bulk.
Affordability for families, students, and lunch crowds
Parents can mix and match $5 meals to please everyone without breaking the bank. Students on a tight budget find these meals a lifesaver. And office workers can get a quick, tasty lunch that’s easy on the wallet.
Portion size and satisfaction compared to price
Many $5 meals come with generous portions. Bowls and burritos have over 40 grams of protein, keeping you full. Taco al Carbón is a lighter option for those watching carbs. Adding chips, tortillas, or a drink to your order makes it even more satisfying without costing much more.
Examples of building a full meal without overspending
Combining two $5 items can make a meal for two, thanks to Loco Rewards and special deals. Try a Classic Chicken Burrito with a Taco al Carbón and a small side. This combo can feed two for under $12 with discounts.
| Meal Build | Items | Approx. Price | Calories | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Student Lunch | Classic Chicken Burrito ($5) + small salsa | $5.00 | Approx. 650 cal | Hearty single-serve option from the el pollo loco budget-friendly menu |
| Shareable Pair | Taco al Carbón ($5) + Handmade Chicken Taquitos ($5) | $10.00 (before promos) | Approx. 900–1,100 cal combined | Light + indulgent mix; use Loco Rewards for savings |
| Value Combo | Pollo Bowl ($5) + small drink (promo) | $6.99–$7.99 | Approx. 700–800 cal | High protein, good for post-workout or long shifts |
| Budget Family Pack | Two $5 specials + shared chips | $11.00–$13.00 with promo | Approx. 1,400–1,800 cal total | Economical for two people; offers from the el pollo loco affordable meal choices list may lower cost |
El Pollo Loco menu deals and promotions alongside the $5 offerings
The El Pollo Loco $5 menu is great for saving money. You can mix it with app coupons and seasonal specials. This way, you get a full meal without spending too much.
How $5 items fit with Loco Rewards and other promotions
Loco Rewards members get points on their purchases. These points can be used for free entrees or discounts. Adding a $5 item to a points redemption makes your meal even cheaper.
Look out for buy-one-get-one app offers and birthday rewards. These deals often apply to main menu items. They can be used with the $5 menu for more savings.
Regional and limited-time specials vs. core value menu
The $5 menu is common in many places, but local menus offer unique twists. Limited-time Craveable Combos sometimes join the $5 menu for a short time.
When a special item comes out, it might replace or join the regular menu. Check local listings to see if it’s available near you.
Tips for spotting local store variations and seasonal add-ons
- Use the El Pollo Loco app and store locator to view current promotions at nearby locations.
- Look for in-store signage that highlights day-specific or regional el pollo loco menu deals.
- Call a local restaurant during peak seasons for confirmation of limited-time $5 offerings.
| Promotion Type | How it pairs with $5 items | Where to check |
|---|---|---|
| Loco Rewards | Earn points on $5 purchases; redeem for free items or discounts | App account dashboard and email offers |
| App Coupons | Stackable coupons can reduce combo prices that include $5 entries | Mobile offers tab and push notifications |
| Regional Specials | Unique $5 items or seasonal add-ons vary by market | Local store menu and in-restaurant posters |
| Limited-Time Combos | Temporary value meals may replace core items for a launch period | Press releases, app news, and store notices |
Using el pollo loco rewards with specific deals can save you a lot. Always check the app before you go. This way, you’ll know which $5 items and promotions are available at your local restaurant.
Where to find El Pollo Loco $5 menu items near you
El Pollo Loco offers many affordable meals in the Southwest and beyond. You’ll find them in California, Texas, Arizona, and Nevada. They also have restaurants in Utah and Louisiana, with $5 menu items available at most locations.
States and cities with many locations
California has the most El Pollo Loco locations, from Los Angeles to Orange County. Texas cities like Houston and Dallas also have many. Phoenix and Arizona keep a steady presence. Las Vegas and Nevada offer frequent access to value items.
Using store locators and hours to plan visits
Find the closest El Pollo Loco using the brand’s store locator. Check the website or app for el pollo loco opening hours. Store pages also list current menus and seasonal specials.
Example addresses and typical opening times in California
| City | Address | Typical Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 1833 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90035 | Mon–Sun 9:30 AM–11:00 PM |
| Los Angeles (Echo Park) | 330 N Alvarado St, Los Angeles, CA 90026 | Mon–Sun 9:30 AM–11:00 PM |
| Houston | 5321 S Rice Ave, Houston, TX 77081 | Mon–Sun 10:00 AM–10:00 PM |
| Las Vegas | 2401 S Decatur Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89102 | Mon–Sun 10:30 AM–10:30 PM |
| Phoenix | 2410 W Northern Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85021 | Mon–Sun 10:00 AM–11:00 PM |
Search for el pollo loco $5 menu near me to find nearby spots. Check el pollo loco opening hours before you go. If you need a specific item, call the store first. Local promotions and stock can vary.
Customer favorites and real-world reviews of $5 specials
When deciding on el pollo loco’s $5 specials, many readers check out customer reviews. Social media buzzes with excitement for some of these deals. This section will highlight what fans love and what they wish could be better.
Fan reactions to handmade taquitos and the Loco Burrito
Guests love the Chicken Taquitos for their unique texture and flavorful chicken. They also rave about the creamy guacamole, saying it makes the dish even better.
The Loco Burrito is a hit for its generous size and juicy chicken. People also enjoy the Pollo Bowls, praising the hearty portions and juicy chicken.
Common praise points: fresh ingredients, flavor, value
El pollo loco’s fan favorites often include items with fresh toppings like pico de gallo and creamy dressing. Customers love the fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Many diners appreciate the value of el pollo loco’s $5 specials. They say the price and portion size make these meals great for quick lunches or dinners.
Constructive critiques: calorie-dense items and regional availability
Some reviews warn about high-calorie items like Chicken Nachos, which can have over 1,000 calories. Customers suggest clearer calorie labels and lighter options.
Availability in different regions is another common topic. Some fans wish more $5 specials were available in their area.
| Item | Price | Calories | Diet Options | Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Handmade Chicken Taquitos | $5 | Approx. 420 | Not vegan; can be lower-carb with salad swap | Dairy (guacamole may vary), Wheat |
| Loco Burrito | $5 | Approx. 650 | Customizable for lower calories; ask for no cheese | Dairy, Wheat |
| Original Pollo Bowl® | $5 | Approx. 520 | Gluten-free with corn tortillas; keto-friendly tweaks | Dairy, Soy |
| Chicken Nachos | $5 (promo varies) | 1,090 | Not suitable for low-cal diets; shareable portion | Dairy, Wheat, Soy |
Overall, el pollo loco’s $5 specials are a hit for their taste and value. The key takeaway from reviews is to choose grilled options, be mindful of portion sizes on nachos, and check local menus before visiting.
Tips for getting the best $5 menu experience
Want to enjoy el pollo loco $5 meals without losing flavor or nutrition? Here are some tips to help you get the most out of el pollo loco menu deals. You can mix, match, and time your visits for the best value.
When ordering, aim for a balance of taste and nutrition. Opt for bowls or tacos for more protein and fewer calories. Ask for dressings and sauces on the side to control your portion sizes.
Try these simple swaps to keep your meals leaner. Add extra pico de gallo or grilled veggies for flavor without extra calories. Lighten up by asking for less salsa and skipping sour cream when you can.
Timing your visits is key to catch special deals. Keep an eye on app alerts and the restaurant’s social media for updates. Popular deals often come back during holidays or special events.
Visit during lunch for the best deals and combos. Early evening might also have some good options, but they can vary by location.
Share $5 items to make a meal without spending more. Two $5 entrees can be a filling meal for two. Chips often come with combos, adding value. Swap out expensive extras for a small side salad or beans for more volume without extra cost.
Use Loco Rewards to save even more. App rewards can cover sides or drinks, making your $5 meals even more affordable. Redeem points for free items or look for exclusive app deals.
Here’s a quick guide to making balanced, budget-friendly combos. It includes common items, a nutrition tweak, and a cost-saving pairing idea.
| Item | Smart Swap | Calories (est.) | Pairing Idea |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken Tacos | Ask for extra pico, no crema | 380 | Pair with chips included in combo |
| Pollo Bowl | Light dressing, extra veggies | 520 | Share with a friend to split calories |
| Loco Burrito | Hold tortilla strips, request brown rice | 640 | Add a free salsa and split |
| Handmade Chicken Taquitos | Limit guacamole portion | 450 | Combine with a side salad for balance |
| Chicken Nachos | Share and skip extra cheese | 920 | Order as a group item, not solo |
Comparison with other fast-casual value menus and budget-friendly menu options
When looking for quick meals, both price and taste are key. El Pollo Loco’s $5 menu focuses on fire-grilled chicken and Mexican toppings. This makes it stand out from chains that offer fried foods or just low prices.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide. It shows price, protein, and special features for those in a hurry.
| Brand | Typical $5 Options | Protein Style | Standout Attributes |
|---|---|---|---|
| El Pollo Loco | Taquitos, tacos, burritos, bowls | Fire-grilled chicken | Handmade components, citrus marinade, Mexican toppings |
| Taco Bell | Cravings Menu tacos, bean burritos | Fried/seasoned meats, vegetarian options | Low-price staples, broad national promotions |
| Chipotle | Smaller bowls and burrito bowls (value promotions) | Grilled meats, sofritas (tofu) | Customizable bowls, larger portion control |
| Qdoba | Value entrees during promotions | Grilled meats, vegetarian bowls | Free guacamole on some deals, build-your-own style |
Choosing El Pollo Loco means you get grilled flavor and more protein. This makes the el pollo loco budget-friendly menu great for those who want tasty, flame-grilled meals without high prices.
Go for other chains if you prefer fried foods, vegetarian options, or big promotions. But for a grilled, Mexican-inspired meal with care, the el pollo loco value menu is the best choice.
Conclusion
The el pollo loco $5 menu offers tasty, affordable choices. You’ll find fire-grilled, citrus-marinated chicken in many dishes. Options like Pollo Bowls and Chicken Nachos are favorites for their flavor and value.
These meals are perfect for busy people who want a good meal without spending a lot. They’re great for families, students, and anyone looking for a quick, satisfying bite.
El pollo loco also has deals that make your money go further. You can use Loco Rewards and check for local offers. This way, you can enjoy delicious food without breaking the bank.
Some dishes might have more calories, but you can make healthier choices. Try swapping sides or dressings to keep your meal tasty and light.
To plan your meal, visit the El Pollo Loco website or app. It shows current deals and hours. You can mix and match $5 meals for a budget-friendly, flavorful meal.
Adding a small side and drink to your $5 meal makes it even better. It’s a great way to enjoy Mexican-inspired flavors without spending a lot.
