Expect to see more new proteins and more on the menu at Chipotle this year.
The fast-casual chain on Tuesday announced the return of Chicken al Pastor on Feb. 10, a limited-time offer that first hit the menu three years ago. At the time, it was the first global menu innovation, and the chain said fans on social media have been demanding a return of the dish.
Chipotle Rewards members can order it a day ahead, on Feb. 9, through the app or website to get an early taste. The grilled chicken is marinated with morita peppers and ground achiote, with a splash of pineapple and garnished with lime and chopped cilantro. It’s also available for protein snackers in the new High Protein Cup.
The return of Chicken al Pastor is Chipotle’s first menu promotion for 2026, and the company said two to three more are coming this year, in addition to new sides and dips.
That’s a shift from the past. Chipotle has long been known for keeping its menu fairly consistent. In past years, Chipotle has worked its marketing schedule around two tent-pole limited-time proteins to drive traffic.
But last year was tough for Chipotle, which is expected to report a same-store sales decline in the low-single-digit range for fiscal 2025. The company is scheduled to report fourth-quarter and full-year results next week.
The chain began stepping up marketing activity last year, with introductions like a new Adobo Ranch sauce, the first new dip in five years, as well as a Red Chimichurri.
CEO Scott Boatwright, however, said the limited-time promotions are working.
The company said guests who buy an LTO tend to visit more often and spend more over the following year, compared with those who don’t purchase the LTO.
Boatwright said during the chain’s third-quarter earnings report that the new menu innovation coming this year would be a blend of new and historic innovations that worked well in the past.
“Our team is focused on delivering new flavor experiences that are delicious, on-trend, on-brand and operationally consistent for our restaurant teams to execute for our guests,” said Nevielle Panthaky, Chipotle’s vice president of culinary, in a statement. “Chicken al Pastor’s comeback is a preview of what’s in store this year at Chipotle.”
Meanwhile, the chain is looking to bring in a new marketing chief.
Chipotle’s President and Chief Brand Officer Chris Brandt stepped down earlier this month. Stephanie Perdue, the chain’s vice president of brand marketing, is serving as interim chief marketing officer as the company looks for his replacement.
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