How Much Is Chicken Al Pastor At Chipotle

February 1, 2025 admin

Chicken al pastor has become one of the most talked about protein options at Chipotle, drawing attention for its smoky, slightly sweet, and spicy flavor profile inspired by traditional Mexican al pastor seasoning. For those who enjoy dining at Chipotle, the natural question that comes up is how much chicken al pastor costs compared to other menu items. Prices can vary slightly depending on location, but understanding the average cost and how it fits into the rest of the Chipotle menu can help you plan your meal more effectively. In addition, knowing about portion sizes, add-ons, and nutrition makes it easier to decide whether this option suits both your taste preferences and your budget.

Table of Contents

Average Price of Chicken al Pastor at Chipotle

On average, chicken al pastor at Chipotle costs about the same as regular chicken. In most U.S. locations, a standard entrée with chicken al pastor whether it’s a burrito, bowl, tacos, or salad ranges between $8.50 and $10.50 before tax. The exact price may depend on your city, local wages, and ingredient costs, but Chipotle generally keeps pricing consistent across different proteins with the exception of steak, barbacoa, and carnitas, which are slightly more expensive.

Sample Price Ranges

Burrito with chicken al pastor $9 – $10.50
Bowl with chicken al pastor $9 – $10.50
Three tacos with chicken al pastor $8.50 – $9.75
Salad with chicken al pastor $9 – $10.50

These numbers are approximate and can vary based on location, but they reflect the general cost nationwide.

Comparing Chicken al Pastor to Other Proteins

One of the most important details when asking how much chicken al pastor at Chipotle costs is comparing it to other meat choices. Regular chicken, pollo asado (when available), and chicken al pastor usually share the same price point. In contrast, steak and barbacoa often cost about $1.50 to $2.50 more, while sofritas (the tofu-based protein) are typically at the same lower price point as chicken.

Price Comparison Overview

Chicken (regular or al pastor) Base price, about $9-$10.50
Sofritas Same as chicken, $9-$10.50
Carnitas Slightly higher, about $10-$11.50
Steak or barbacoa Premium pricing, about $11-$12.50

This comparison shows that chicken al pastor is among the most affordable protein options while offering a unique flavor profile, making it an attractive choice for customers who want variety without paying a premium.

Customization and Add-Ons

The base price of a chicken al pastor entrée at Chipotle covers the protein plus your choice of rice, beans, salsa, cheese, sour cream, and vegetables. However, add-ons like guacamole or queso can increase the total cost of your meal.

Typical Add-On Prices

Guacamole Around $2.50 – $3.00 extra
Queso blanco About $1.50 – $2.00 extra
Double meat (extra chicken al pastor) Typically $3.00 – $4.00 more
Chips and guacamole on the side Around $4.50 – $5.00

If you order double protein, your chicken al pastor burrito or bowl could end up costing closer to $13-$15 depending on the region and extras selected.

Regional Price Differences

While Chipotle tries to maintain consistent pricing, the cost of chicken al pastor can vary between locations due to local operating expenses. For example, prices in major metropolitan areas like New York City, Los Angeles, or San Francisco tend to be higher than in smaller towns or suburban regions. Taxes also influence the final cost at checkout.

Examples of Price Variation

Midwestern cities Often closer to $8.50-$9.25 for a chicken al pastor entrée
West Coast and East Coast urban centers Usually $10-$11 or higher
College towns or rural areas Slightly lower pricing, sometimes under $9

These variations mean that the best way to know the exact cost in your area is to check the Chipotle app or online ordering system for your nearest location.

Is Chicken al Pastor Worth the Price?

When deciding whether to order chicken al pastor at Chipotle, the question is not just how much it costs but also whether it delivers value. Many customers consider it worth trying because it offers a different seasoning blend compared to regular chicken, featuring flavors of adobo, pineapple, and spices that make it stand out.

Value Considerations

Flavor Bold and unique, offering something beyond standard chicken.
Portion size Same generous serving as other proteins at Chipotle.
Cost No extra charge compared to regular chicken, making it a low-risk upgrade.

Overall, chicken al pastor is considered a flavorful, cost-effective choice for diners who want variety without paying steak-level prices.

Nutrition Alongside Price

Price is one factor, but many customers also consider the nutrition of chicken al pastor. On average, a serving of chicken al pastor contains around 180 calories, 26 grams of protein, 7 grams of fat, and 3 grams of carbohydrates per portion. This makes it a lean, high-protein option compared to carnitas or barbacoa, which tend to be higher in fat.

From a nutritional standpoint, chicken al pastor delivers good value for the price, especially for those who want protein without excessive calories.

Meal Strategies to Save Money

If you want to enjoy chicken al pastor while keeping costs manageable, there are several strategies to consider when ordering

Opt for a burrito bowl without a tortilla to save calories while paying the same price.
Skip premium add-ons like queso and guacamole if you are on a budget.
Order a bowl and ask for a tortilla on the side, often at no extra cost, for a larger meal experience.
Use loyalty rewards or promotions through the Chipotle app for discounts.

These methods let you maximize value while still enjoying the flavor of chicken al pastor.

Customer Perception of Price

Many customers see chicken al pastor as a great deal because it provides a new flavor option without a price increase. Compared to steak or barbacoa, which can push an entrée closer to $12 or more, chicken al pastor keeps the cost in the lower range. Online reviews and feedback often highlight satisfaction with both taste and affordability.

The cost of chicken al pastor at Chipotle is typically in the $9 to $10.50 range for a standard entrée, depending on location. This puts it in the same category as regular chicken and sofritas, making it one of the more affordable protein options on the menu. Regional differences, add-ons, and double meat can raise the total price, but for most customers, chicken al pastor represents excellent value. With its bold flavors and competitive pricing, it is a popular choice for both budget-conscious diners and those seeking variety in their Chipotle orders. If you want something flavorful and satisfying without paying a premium, chicken al pastor is one of the best options available.