As a self-declared Chipotle connoisseur, I take it upon myself to report on their new menu items. My qualifications on the matter are far from few; in the past two months I’ve consumed over 25 Chipotle burritos, each containing the same ingredients. That doesn’t even include the countless chicken quesadillas and bowls I’ve eaten.
Recently, Chipotle launched two new items, the Pollo Asado and the Chili Lime Chips. My feelings on them are both strong and passionate.
Starting with the worst of the two, I hated the Chili Lime Chips. I wasn’t even allowed to try them until over a week after they were announced, due to circumstances unknown at the West Hartford Chipotle. When I finally got my hands on them, I was greatly disappointed. What lacked in flavor also lacked in crunch, a disappointing find for the Takis wannabe. The presentation was lacking as well, with only a few chips sprinkled with seasoning. It’s almost as if the workers sprinkled it into the bag but forgot to shake them.
While I’m not the biggest fan of spicy chips, it wasn’t the chili seasoning that made me hate them. I believe that Chipotle’s regular chips are the best, which can make it difficult for any new variety to try and compare. I love the concept of a chili lime chip, but the execution and presentation of it could have been significantly better.
On the other hand, Chipotle’s new Pollo Asado protein option has become my new favorite addiction. Bringing in a higher citrus flavor profile and a softer but smoky taste, this limited-time Pollo Asado chicken is hard not to love. The chicken itself is juicy and tender, and the marinade adds a garlicky spin on the regular chicken we all know and love. I’ve tried the Pollo Asado chicken in burrito and bowl form, and each one was delectable. While I’m biased toward a warm burrito, the chicken held its ground in both situations.
Besides the delicious flavor the chicken has to offer, the presentation in the tub is beautiful. It’s almost as if the chicken’s green hue from cilantro allows it to stand out from other proteins and shout ‘pick me!’ All jokes aside, the Pollo Asado really does show well against the other proteins.
I am mourning the loss of Chipotle’s Pollo Asado already, even though it’s still in stock. I cannot think of a time when I would voluntarily get regular chicken after this marvelous discovery. As for the Chili Lime Chips- I am totally okay never eating them again. If this is the start of Chipotle’s new flavored chip launches, I can’t wait for the next release. In the meantime, this first unveiling did not meet my expectations, and I will be happy knowing I never have to try them again.
These menu releases brought new excitement to Chipotle this past month. I loved the opportunity to try them and express my thoughts, and I can’t wait to see what Chipotle brings to the table next.
