El Pollo Loco Debuts Summer Menu Innovations

COSTA MESA, Calif. — El Pollo Loco, Inc. has announced a fresh lineup of summer menu innovations designed for on-the-go flavor and convenience. The nation's leading fire-grilled chicken restaurant chain will officially launch its new limited-time offerings on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at participating locations nationwide. However, members of the company's Loco Rewards loyalty program do not have to wait, as they receive exclusive early digital access to the new items starting today, Tuesday, June 23.

The headline items for the seasonal rollout are the new Loaded Quesadillas, which come in two distinct Mexican-inspired varieties: Queso and Street Corn. Both options feature the chain's signature citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chopped chicken breast and a generous portion of melted Jack cheese wrapped in a warm flour tortilla and grilled. The Queso Loaded Quesadilla is layered with warm queso blanco, crunchy tortilla strips, and a creamy cilantro sauce. Meanwhile, the Street Corn variant features a blend of corn, red peppers, crumbled cotija cheese, and chili lime seasoning balanced with a creamy chipotle sauce. Chief Marketing Officer Jill Adams noted that the portable design allows busy summer commuters to easily enjoy a high-quality, flavorful meal with one hand.

In addition to the food line, El Pollo Loco is expanding its beverage menu with a signature line of indulgent iced coffees. The new Chatacoffee collection blends classic iced coffee with the restaurant's sweet, creamy Mexican-style horchata, which features hints of cinnamon and vanilla. Available at select locations, customers can choose the standard Chatacoffee, the Chatacoffee Cream topped with a smooth layer of sweet cold foam, or a standard Iced Coffee Cream. Chief Executive Officer Liz Williams stated that integrating horchata into the coffee line was a natural progression, as the traditional beverage has been a beloved fixture of their menu for many years.

Rounding out the summer additions is the highly anticipated return of the chain's fan-favorite BBQ Black Beans. Slow-simmered to deliver a distinct balance of sweet and smoky flavors, the side dish is designed to complement the company's classic 12-piece family meals or be enjoyed as an a la carte option. Founded in 1980, the Costa Mesa-based company now operates more than 500 company-owned and franchised restaurants across nine states.

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