Chipotle is testing a new chicken option.
The chain said Tuesday that 80 units in Nashville, Tennessee, and Sacramento, California, are testing a new Chipotle Honey Chicken limited-time offer.
Described as having unique heat from smoked adobo (chipotle) peppers and a touch of sweetness from honey, the potential menu item follows an ongoing trend toward sweet-spicy flavors, dubbed “swicy.”
In consumer taste tests, the menu item won the highest marks of any chicken dish Chipotle has sensory tested, the company said.
“Consumers have clearly shown their enthusiasm for sweet heat flavor combinations,” said Chris Brandt, Chipotle’s chief brand officer, in a statement. “We have had tremendous success with ‘swicy’ innovations and believe Chipotle Honey Chicken will capture fans with a whole new level of excitement.”
Chicken is the most popular protein at Chipotle, and two other flavor options—Chicken al Pastor and Pollo Asado—have been hugely popular. The al Pastor was introduced as an LTO in March 2023 and came back a year later by customer request.
But there’s more coming for beef lovers too.
During the second-quarter earnings call, outgoing CEO Brian Niccol said the chain is bringing back Smoked Brisket this fall for a limited time.
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a Restaurant Business member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.