Chipotle introduces Chipotle honey chicken for limited testing

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) is again boosting its menu.

Following the success of its Chicken al Pastor and Pollo Asado offerings, Chipotle is set to tantalize taste buds once again with a new chicken dish.

The fast-casual chain announced that it will be testing Chipotle Honey Chicken in 80 locations across Nashville and Sacramento. This new sweet-and-spicy (or “swicy”) creation will be available for a limited time as the brand gauges customer interest.

A Flavorful New Addition

Chipotle Honey Chicken is marinated in a homemade hot honey, developed by Chipotle’s culinary team. The marinade features a proprietary blend of seared and smoked adobo (chipotle) peppers combined with savory Mexican spices.

After being roasted and chopped, the chicken is finished with a drizzle of honey, creating a unique flavor profile that balances heat with sweetness.

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Before introducing the new dish to these test markets, Chipotle conducted consumer taste tests to refine the recipe. According to a company representative, the sweet and spicy flavors of the Chipotle Honey Chicken “surpassed consumer expectations and achieved the highest marks of any chicken innovation that Chipotle has sensory tested.”

Aiming to Replicate Past Success

Chicken has consistently been Chipotle’s most popular protein choice among customers. The debut of Chicken al Pastor in March 2023 saw it quickly become the top requested menu item, leading to its return in 2024.

Now, Chipotle is hoping that Tennessee and California customers will similarly embrace the Chipotle Honey Chicken, potentially leading to a nationwide rollout.

“Consumers have clearly shown their enthusiasm for sweet heat flavor combinations,” shared Chris Brandt, Chief Brand Officer at Chipotle.

“We have had tremendous success with ‘swicy’ innovations and believe Chipotle Honey Chicken will capture fans with a whole new level of excitement.”

Challenges and Future Innovations

While Chipotle continues to innovate, not all customer feedback has been positive this summer. The brand faced a social-media backlash regarding smaller portion sizes, prompting a response from Chipotle’s CEO emphasizing the company’s commitment to generous servings.

It remains to be seen if the excitement around this new menu item might influence portion sizes.

Chipotle typically introduces two to three new menu innovations each year.

Excluding the reintroduction of Chicken al Pastor, the Chipotle Honey Chicken is the brand’s first entirely new offering for 2024, signaling that more culinary creations may be on the horizon.