El Pollo Loco provides a variety of sides to go with their famous fire-grilled chicken. These sides range from traditional Mexican flavors to options for those watching their health. You get to explore a wide selection, all fresh and full of flavor, perfect with El Pollo Loco’s main dishes.
The sides have calories from as low as 5 (Gravy) to as high as 1,010 (Chips & Guac). This means you can find something no matter your diet.
El Pollo Loco operates over 400 spots, mostly in California, Texas, and Utah, and they’re still growing. They focus on fresh ingredients and delicious side dishes. This has made them a favorite for many looking for both quality and value in their meals. Roughly 92% of customers love the food quality at El Pollo Loco.
Looking for something classic like pinto beans (small has 140 calories)? Or want to try something exciting like fiery avocado salsa? El Pollo Loco has it all. And at a good price too, with popular sides averaging at $5.99. They make a great add-on to your meal.
Introduction to El Pollo Loco Sides
El Pollo Loco side dishes are known for their great taste and top-quality ingredients. They blend traditional recipes with modern, unique dishes. This makes them popular among all kinds of eaters. Let’s find out why these sides are favorites and how they improve the dining experience.
The Importance of Quality Ingredients
Quality ingredients are key at El Pollo Loco. Their side dishes use fresh, never-frozen ingredients for maximum flavor. They marinate their chicken in a special mix of herbs, spices, and citrus. This raises the bar for fast-casual dining. This effort is also seen in their sides, making meals enjoyable and healthy.
A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
El Pollo Loco side dishes mix old recipes with new flavors. They take cues from Sinaloa’s heritage and Southern California’s tastes. So, you get both comforting and new age side dishes. Examples include classic pinto beans and zesty avocado salsa. Each side is a unique mix of the past and present.
Health and Nutrition Focus
El Pollo Loco also focuses on health with their sides. Many sides are made for those watching their diet. For instance, their salads and veggies are low in calories but rich in nutrients. This balanced method lets diners enjoy their meals healthily. It’s perfect for a guilt-free dining experience.
El Pollo Loco’s sides show the brand’s dedication to high-quality ingredients, a perfect mix of the old and new, and a focus on health. These factors come together to enhance their famous fire-grilled chicken and the dining experience overall.
Popular Sides at El Pollo Loco
El Pollo Loco offers many sides to go with their main meals. Favorites include Pinto Beans, Rice, and hot Avocado Salsa. Each side adds its special flavor and texture to the meal.
Pinto Beans
The Pinto Beans at El Pollo Loco are a must-have. They’re seasoned with Mexican spices for a deep, rich taste. These beans are both filling and nutritious. They are a favorite for their great flavor and health perks.
Rice
El Pollo Loco’s Rice is a top choice among customers. It’s light and fluffy, making it a perfect match for any entree. The rice is seasoned well, making it a tasty part of your meal.
Avocado Salsa (Hot)
If you like things spicy, try the hot Avocado Salsa. This salsa is creamy, spicy, and full of flavor. Use it as a dip or topping to add zest to your meal. It’s a hit for anyone who loves spice.
El Pollo Loco Sides Nutrition Information
El Pollo Loco gives you the full scoop on the nutrition of its sides. This helps you make smart choices when eating out. Get all the details on calories and nutrition for sides that fit your diet and health plans.
Understanding Calories and Nutrition Facts
It’s important to know the calories and nutrition of El Pollo Loco’s side dishes. The calories in sides go from 5 in gravy to 1,090 in Chips & Queso. So, you can pick sides that match your calorie needs and diet.
Average Nutritional Values
El Pollo Loco’s sides vary a lot in nutrition. Fat content ranges from 0 grams in Pinto Beans to 72 grams in Chips & Queso. This info helps you limit fat in your diet and choose healthier options. Protein choices also vary, with up to 74 grams in the Double Chicken Bowl, perfect for protein-focused diets.
Weight and Portion Control
Portion size is key in managing nutrition and calories. El Pollo Loco’s sides come in sizes from 1.0 oz. of gravy to 23.4 oz. of Chicken Tortilla Soup. With varied portion sizes, El Pollo Loco caters to different diet needs while keeping the taste great.
Regional and Seasonal Variations in Sides
El Pollo Loco is known for its exciting sides menu. It shows off local tastes and the changing seasons. The brand picks regional recipes, pleasing locals and surprising them with new, seasonal ingredients.
California-Inspired Dishes
California’s food is famous for its blend of fresh ingredients and cultural mix. El Pollo Loco uses *California-inspired sides* in its menu. For instance, the *Avocado Salsa* is really popular, especially in California, with its fresh avocados. Using local produce, El Pollo Loco ensures its dishes are both delicious and high-quality. This approach keeps its connection with regional customers strong and genuine.
Seasonal Ingredients and Special Offerings
El Pollo Loco uses seasonal changes to bring new dishes to the table. For example, you might find *Butternut Squash Soup* in autumn and *Chicken Pozole Verde* in winter. These seasonal choices give customers something new to try, matching their tastes as the seasons change.
Adding *regional dishes* and *California-inspired sides* means El Pollo Loco always offers what customers want. This careful selection not only makes the menu interesting. It also helps local farmers and supports sustainable farming. By doing this, El Pollo Loco stays committed to quality and innovation.
| Item Name | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Avocado Salsa | 80 | $1.99 |
| Butternut Squash Soup | 150 | $3.49 |
| Chicken Pozole Verde | 220 | $4.99 |
| Black Bean Bowl | 310 | $5.99 |
| Mango Grilled Tostada | 400 | $5.99 |
| Gravy | 5 | $0.99 |
| Broccoli | 25 | $1.50 |
| Chips & Guac | 1010 | $3.99 |
| Original Pollo Bowl | 460 | $6.99 |
| Fire-Grilled Corn | 210 | $2.49 |
| Red Chile Sauce | 30 | $0.99 |
| Jalapeno Poppers | 320 | $3.49 |
| Spicy Rice | 180 | $1.99 |
| Elote (Mexican Street Corn) | 250 | $2.99 |
| Potato Wedges | 350 | $2.99 |
Pairing Sides with Main Dishes
Creating a balanced meal means *pairing sides with chicken* for great taste and nutrition. El Pollo Loco’s chicken is best with the right sides. Picking great flavors makes your meal even better.
Best Matches for Fire-Grilled Chicken
Fire-grilled chicken tastes great with certain sides. Things like cilantro lime rice and seasoned black beans are favorites. The rice boosts the chicken’s taste, and the beans add richness.
Avocado salsa is another top choice. It offers a cool, spicy flavor that goes well with the chicken.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
A good meal also has different textures. For example, crispy tortilla chips bring crunch to soft chicken. Street corn mixes sweet and tangy flavors for an interesting texture.
A light salad with greens and vinaigrette is a fresh option. It pairs well with fire-grilled chicken for a refreshing meal.
In summary, choosing the right sides at El Pollo Loco can make your chicken meal special. With the best flavors and textures, your meal will be memorable.
Customer Reviews of El Pollo Loco Sides
People love El Pollo Loco’s sides. They often share what they like and what could be better. Many sides are favorites, but some need improvement.
Top-Rated Sides
The Double Chicken Avocado Salad is a hit for its protein and fiber. Another favorite is the Macaroni and Cheese, a comfort food choice. Also, the Fire-Grilled Chicken Family Meals are loved for their taste and size.
Popular Favorites
Pinto Beans and Rice are loved for being authentic and flavorful. The Avocado Salsa (Hot) is another top pick for its bold flavor. Some items like the Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice and coleslaw get mixed reviews, but they show El Pollo Loco’s effort to offer variety.
Customer Feedback Overview
Most customers enjoy the food, with 95% saying it’s good and 97% happy with the delivery time. Yet, 91% find their orders accurate, mentioning small portions and sometimes cold food or missing items. This feedback is valuable for El Pollo Loco to improve their menu and service.
| Item Name | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pinto Beans | 170 | $2.59 |
| Rice | 160 | $2.49 |
| Avocado Salsa (Hot) | 45 | $0.89 |
| Macaroni and Cheese | 290 | $3.29 |
| Double Chicken Avocado Salad | 550 | $7.99 |
| Fire-Grilled Chicken Family Meal (16-piece) | Varies | $51.99 |
| Fire-Grilled Chicken Family Meal (8-piece) | Varies | $33.99 |
| Coleslaw | 120 | $2.29 |
| Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice | 45 | $2.99 |
| Churros | 220 | $1.89 |
| Homemade Tortilla Soup | 350 | $4.99 |
| Rice and Bean Cup | 310 | $2.99 |
| Large Drink | Varies | $3.79 |
Dietary And Allergen Information
| Item Name | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pinto Beans | No | No | No |
| Rice | No | No | No |
| Avocado Salsa (Hot) | Yes | Yes | No |
| Macaroni and Cheese | No | No | Dairy |
| Double Chicken Avocado Salad | Yes | Yes | No |
| Fire-Grilled Chicken Family Meal (16-piece) | Yes | Yes | No |
| Fire-Grilled Chicken Family Meal (8-piece) | Yes | Yes | No |
| Coleslaw | No | No | Dairy |
| Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice | Yes | Yes | No |
| Churros | No | No | Dairy |
| Homemade Tortilla Soup | No | No | No |
| Rice and Bean Cup | No | No | No |
| Large Drink | Varies | Varies | No |
El Pollo Loco Sides Prices and Value
El Pollo Loco is known not just for its tasty main courses. It also provides great value with its side dishes. *El Pollo Loco sides prices* are set so customers get a lot for their money without losing out on quality or flavor. This place has *affordable dining options* for everyone, whether you’re eating alone or with friends.
Side Dishes within Budget
El Pollo Loco’s menu focuses on affordability, perfect for diners who want to save money. Let’s look at some favorite side dishes and their prices:
| Item Name | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Mexican Rice | 200 | $2.29 |
| Chips & Guacamole | 450 | $3.79 |
| Pinto Beans | 170 | $1.99 |
| Elotes (Street Corn) | 210 | $2.79 |
| Side Salad | 80 | $2.29 |
| Black Beans | 190 | $1.99 |
| Macaroni & Cheese | 300 | $2.49 |
| Mashed Potatoes | 170 | $2.29 |
| Chicken Tortilla Soup | 230 | $3.79 |
| Classic Pollo Bowl (half) | 320 | $5.49 |
| Grilled Chicken Taco (small) | 180 | $2.99 |
| Pollo Bowl Light | 450 | $8.49 |
| Two-Piece Chicken Meal with Side Salad | 480 | $6.99 |
| Chicken Avocado Salad | 260 | $8.99 |
| Double Chicken Avocado Salad | 420 | $7.99 |
| Fit Bowl | 340 | $7.99 |
Cost-Effective Options for Groups
If you’re planning a meal for many people, El Pollo Loco has great sides that won’t break the bank. Check out these group-friendly options:
| Item Name | Calories | Price | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mexican Rice | 200 | $2.29 | No | No | None |
| Chips & Guacamole | 450 | $3.79 | No | Yes | Contains Dairy |
| Pinto Beans | 170 | $1.99 | No | Yes | None |
| Elotes (Street Corn) | 210 | $2.79 | No | No | Contains Dairy |
| Side Salad | 80 | $2.29 | Yes | Yes | None |
| Black Beans | 190 | $1.99 | Yes | Yes | None |
| Macaroni & Cheese | 300 | $2.49 | No | No | Contains Dairy |
| Mashed Potatoes | 170 | $2.29 | No | No | Contains Dairy |
| Chicken Tortilla Soup | 230 | $3.79 | No | No | Contains Dairy, Gluten |
| Classic Pollo Bowl (half) | 320 | $5.49 | No | No | Contains Dairy |
| Grilled Chicken Taco (small) | 180 | $2.99 | No | No | Contains Gluten |
| Pollo Bowl Light | 450 | $8.49 | No | No | Contains Dairy, Gluten |
| Two-Piece Chicken Meal with Side Salad | 480 | $6.99 | Yes | Yes | None |
| Chicken Avocado Salad | 260 | $8.99 | Yes | Yes | None |
| Double Chicken Avocado Salad | 420 | $7.99 | Yes | Yes | None |
| Fit Bowl | 340 | $7.99 | Yes | Yes | None |
El Pollo Loco shows you can enjoy both tasty and budget-friendly meals. It’s the perfect pick for anyone looking at *El Pollo Loco sides prices*.
Healthy Side Options at El Pollo Loco
Are you looking for healthier meals? El Pollo Loco has plenty of low-calorie sides packed with veggies. These sides are tasty and great for those who want to stay healthy. Let’s dive into the healthy sides they offer.
Low-Calorie Choices
El Pollo Loco shines with its low-calorie sides that taste amazing. Here are some top choices:
| Item Name | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pinto Beans | 140 | $1.99 |
| Charro Beans | 190 | $2.49 |
| Rice | 160 | $1.49 |
| Broccoli | 30 | $1.29 |
| Mashed Potatoes with Gravy | 100 | $1.99 |
| Black Beans | 150 | $1.99 |
Veggie-Rich Dishes
Want more veggies? El Pollo Loco has you covered with options full of nutrients. These vegetable sides are perfect for a balanced meal:
| Item Name | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Broccoli | 30 | $1.29 |
| Coleslaw | 130 | $1.99 |
| Corn | 160 | $1.49 |
| Black Beans | 150 | $1.99 |
| Loco Side Salad | 210 | $2.49 |
El Pollo Loco takes pride in their healthy menu items. They offer a variety of options for those focused on nutrition and taste. No matter if you want something low in calories or filled with veggies, they have it.
Unique Side Dishes Worth Trying
El Pollo Loco excels in unique sides that defy the usual fast-casual dishes. They always bring new specialty dishes to the menu, ensuring a fun dining experience. Favorites include the mango grilled tostada and cilantro lime cauliflower rice, known for their distinctive flavors.
The mango grilled tostada mixes sweet mango with savory chicken. It’s a refreshing, flavorful choice. The cilantro lime cauliflower rice is a tasty low-carb option. It’s mixed with fresh cilantro and zesty lime.
Here is a detailed Menu Prices Table showcasing various unique sides:
| Item Name | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Mango Grilled Tostada | 320 | $4.99 |
| Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice | 150 | $3.49 |
| Avocado Salsa (Hot) | 120 | $1.99 |
| Pinto Beans | 170 | $2.29 |
| Rice | 200 | $2.29 |
| Broccoli | 55 | $2.49 |
| Sweet Corn | 90 | $2.39 |
| Black Beans | 180 | $2.29 |
| Mashed Potatoes | 210 | $2.29 |
| Macaroni and Cheese | 290 | $2.49 |
| Garden Salad | 130 | $2.99 |
| Corn Tortillas | 110 | $1.99 |
| Quinoa & Brown Rice | 195 | $3.99 |
| Garlic Butter Fries | 310 | $2.99 |
| Chips & Salsa | 270 | $3.29 |
Moreover, their focus on dietary needs ensures that everyone can find something to enjoy. Here’s the Dietary and Allergen Information Table for the unique sides:
| Item Name | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (e.g., Nuts, Dairy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mango Grilled Tostada | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice | Yes | Yes | None |
| Avocado Salsa (Hot) | Yes | Yes | None |
| Pinto Beans | Yes | Yes | None |
| Rice | No | Yes | None |
| Broccoli | Yes | Yes | None |
| Sweet Corn | Yes | Yes | None |
| Black Beans | Yes | Yes | None |
| Mashed Potatoes | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Macaroni and Cheese | No | No | Dairy |
| Garden Salad | Yes | Yes | None |
| Corn Tortillas | No | Yes | None |
| Quinoa & Brown Rice | No | Yes | None |
| Garlic Butter Fries | No | No | Dairy |
| Chips & Salsa | No | Yes | None |
These unique sides, along with the main dishes, offer a diverse dining experience at El Pollo Loco. They keep introducing special dishes that are healthy and cater to different diets. This makes their menu attractive to many people.
Conclusion
Exploring El Pollo Loco sides shows there’s a lot for everyone. You find healthy choices and yummy treats to pick from. There’s Broccoli for those who like to eat light and Macaroni & Cheese for the ones who want to indulge.
The menu is mindful of nutrition. Take the Double Chicken Avocado Salad. It balances 350 calories with 51g of protein. This shows El Pollo Loco’s effort to meet the American Heart Association’s guidelines. Their Family Meals mix affordability with variety, making them great for families.
Side dishes at El Pollo Loco add flavor to your meal. They match the main dishes perfectly without taking over. With options like Original Pollo Bowls and Classic Chicken Tostada, every meal becomes a moment to enjoy. The mix of great taste, variety, and health benefits makes eating at El Pollo Loco a wonderful experience.
FAQ
What are the most popular side dishes at El Pollo Loco?
Favorites include Pinto Beans, seasoned Rice, and hot Avocado Salsa.
Do you provide nutritional information for all sides?
Yes, we give detailed nutritional details for each side. This helps you make better eating choices. It includes calories and more.
Are there low-calorie side options available?
Definitely! We offer various low-calorie sides full of veggies. They’re perfect for those who watch their health.
How are the sides priced at El Pollo Loco?
Our sides have competitive pricing. This ensures you get great value, whether eating alone or with friends. You can see prices on our menu.
Are there any seasonal side dishes at El Pollo Loco?
Yes, we often have seasonal sides. They feature fresh, local ingredients.
What are some unique side dishes worth trying?
For a new taste experience, try the mango grilled tostada. Also, don’t miss out on the cilantro lime cauliflower rice.
