Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor: Ultimate Guide & Easy Recipe

Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor is a flavorful dish made with grilled chicken marinated in smoky adobo, morita peppers, achiote, pineapple, lime, and cilantro. It offers a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors, making it a popular choice for Mexican-inspired meals. Each 4-ounce serving provides 200 calories, 23g protein, and 820mg sodium, ideal for protein lovers but requires mindful sodium intake.

This limited-time item is seasonal, so check availability at your local Chipotle or on their website. You can recreate it at home with simple ingredients like chicken, adobo sauce, pineapple juice, and lime. Serve it with rice, tacos, or salads for a versatile and delicious meal!

Chipotle’s Chicken al Pastor

Introduced in March 2023, Chicken al Pastor marked Chipotle’s first global menu innovation, available across the U.S., Canada, U.K., France, and Germany. Due to its popularity, it was reintroduced in March 2024 for a limited time.

What is Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor?

Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor is a delicious and limited-time menu option that brings a modern twist to the traditional al pastor flavors. Unlike the usual pork used in al pastor, this version features grilled chicken, making it a lighter and protein-rich choice. Its flavor is bold, vibrant, and perfectly balanced, offering something special for fans of Mexican-inspired cuisine.

Flavor Profile of Chicken Al Pastor

The dish combines grilled chicken with a unique marinade made from smoky adobo, seared morita peppers, and ground achiote. The addition of pineapple, fresh lime, and hand-chopped cilantro adds layers of sweetness, tanginess, and herbal freshness. This perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and zest makes it an irresistible option for both spice lovers and those looking for a well-rounded meal.

Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor Pricing

The price of Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor varies depending on your location. On average, it costs between $9.95 and $12.25 for a bowl or burrito. To get the exact price in your area, visit your nearest Chipotle or check their online menu. Prices may also change based on customizations or additional sides.

Nutritional Information

Chicken Al Pastor is a great source of protein while being moderate in calories. Here’s a typical breakdown for a 4-ounce serving:

Calories: 200
Protein: 23g
Total Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Sodium: 820mg

It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a protein-packed meal, but the sodium content is something to keep in mind if you’re watching your salt intake.

Is Chicken Al Pastor Healthy?

Chicken Al Pastor is a good option for those seeking a flavorful yet protein-rich dish. Its moderate calorie count makes it suitable for various dietary preferences. However, the relatively high sodium content might require careful consideration, especially if you’re trying to limit your sodium intake. Pairing it with lower-sodium sides or enjoying it occasionally can help maintain balance.

Availability

As a limited-time menu item, Chicken Al Pastor isn’t always available year-round. Its popularity has led to reintroductions in certain regions, so it’s best to check with your nearest Chipotle location or the company’s website for current availability.

How to Make Chicken Al Pastor at Home

For those who want to recreate this flavorful dish at home, it’s easy to achieve a similar taste with a few key ingredients:

Ingredients:

Chicken (thighs or breasts)
Adobo sauce
Ground achiote
Pineapple juice
Lime juice
Morita peppers or chipotle peppers
Fresh cilantro

Steps:

Marinate the chicken in a blend of adobo sauce, achiote, pineapple juice, lime juice, and spices for at least 2 hours.
Grill the marinated chicken until fully cooked, achieving a nice char for added flavor.
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

You can enjoy this with tacos, bowls, or salads for a versatile meal.

FAQs Regarding Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor

Is Chicken Al Pastor spicy?

Yes, it has a moderate level of heat due to the morita peppers and achiote, but the sweetness from pineapple balances the spice nicely.

Can it fit into a low-carb or keto diet?

While the pineapple marinade adds some natural sugars, it’s still relatively low in carbs. You can enjoy it in a keto-friendly bowl with greens and low-carb toppings.

What pairs well with Chicken Al Pastor?

It goes great with rice, beans, guacamole, or fresh salsa. You can also try it with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor is a flavorful and satisfying choice for those who love bold, balanced flavors. It’s packed with protein, making it a great addition to a healthy diet, though its sodium content should be considered. Whether you try it at Chipotle or recreate it at home, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds with its smoky, tangy, and sweet notes.