Fast-casual restaurant chain Chipotle Mexican Grill is bringing back chicken al pastor to restaurants in the US, Canada, the UK, France and Germany for a limited time starting Feb. 10, 2026. This protein returns as Chipotle accelerates its 2026 menu innovation schedule with three to four limited-time protein offerings, as well as new sides and dips. 

Chicken al pastor debuted three years ago as Chipotle's first global menu innovation, gaining fans worldwide with its sophisticated flavor profile and elevated taste. Prepared daily in small batches, chicken al pastor is made with freshly grilled chicken, a rich marinade featuring seared morita peppers and ground achiote, balanced with a splash of pineapple and finished with fresh lime and hand-chopped cilantro.

"Chicken al pastor built a passionate following, so we had to bring it back to the menu for our fans," said Stephanie Perdue, interim chief marketing officer for Chipotle. "We've seen thousands of comments asking for its return because the unique, bold flavor goes perfectly with their favorite Chipotle order."

Chicken al pastor returns to the Chipotle menu due to strong customer demand. Consumers flooded the comment sections of Chipotle's social channels petitioning for the return of the protein since it left the menu. There have been more than twice as many requests to "bring back chicken al pastor" on social media than for any other limited-time offering in the brand's history.

As a thank-you to customers for their continued support, Chipotle Rewards members can order chicken al pastor exclusively on the Chipotle app, Chipotle.com or Chipotle.ca on Feb. 9, one day before the protein is available to all customers.

Ramping up innovation for LTOs

In 2026, Chipotle's pace of menu innovation will be faster than ever with new offerings and occasions. The brand's past cadence of two limited-time proteins per year has helped drive an increase in transactions. Internal data shows that new and existing guests who purchase an LTO increase frequency and spend over the following year compared to guests who do not purchase an LTO. These new items drive trial and keep Chipotle more visible and relevant throughout the year.

"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, vice president of culinary at Chipotle. "Chicken al pastor's comeback is a preview of what's in store this year at Chipotle."

Source: Chipotle Mexican Grill