How Much is Double Chicken at Chipotle? A Complete Price Breakdown

Let’s face it – sometimes that regular portion of chicken at Chipotle just ain’t enough to satisfy your protein cravings. I’ve been there too! That’s why I often find myself asking the person behind the counter for double chicken. But how much extra will that protein boost set you back?

After multiple visits to different Chipotle locations and some serious research, I’ve put together this comprehensive guide on double chicken pricing at Chipotle. Let’s dive right in!

The Quick Answer: Double Chicken Price Range

If you’re in a hurry here’s what you need to know

Double chicken at Chipotle typically costs between $350 to $4,50 extra on top of your regular entrée price

However the exact price varies based on several factors that we’ll explore below.

Factors That Affect Double Chicken Pricing

The cost of getting that extra scoop of delicious grilled chicken isn’t standardized across all Chipotle locations. Here’s what influences the price:

1. Location Matters A Lot

The biggest factor affecting double chicken pricing is where your Chipotle is located:

• Lower cost-of-living areas: $3.50 to $4.00
• Major urban centers (NYC, San Francisco, etc.): $4.00 to $4.50 or more

This makes sense when you think about it. Chipotle restaurants in expensive cities face higher operational costs, rent, and labor expenses. These costs inevitably get passed on to customers through slightly higher menu prices.

2. Seasonal Fluctuations

Believe it or not, the time of year can impact how much you’ll pay for double chicken:

• Summer grilling season: Prices may rise slightly due to increased chicken demand
• Winter/holiday periods: You might find seasonal promotions that discount protein add-ons

3. Staffing Considerations

When a Chipotle location is understaffed, you might notice a small price increase for customizations like double protein. This accounts for the extra time it takes for fewer employees to prepare specialized orders.

The impact is usually minor – maybe 25 to 50 cents more – but it’s worth noting.

4. Local Competition

If other fast-casual restaurants in your area offer similar protein options at competitive prices, your local Chipotle might adjust their pricing accordingly. Market forces do play a role in setting these prices!

5. Special Offers and Promotions

Chipotle occasionally runs promotions that can reduce the cost of add-ons like double chicken:

• App-exclusive deals
• Email subscriber specials
• Limited-time offers

For example, right now Chipotle is advertising Carne Asada with a $0 delivery fee promotion running from 9/8-9/30/2025 (with some terms and conditions). While this isn’t specifically for double chicken, it shows how Chipotle regularly runs different promotions.

What You’re Getting: Protein Content in Double Chicken

So is double chicken worth the extra cost? Let’s break down what you’re actually getting in terms of protein:

• Standard chicken portion: Approximately 35-55 grams of protein
• Double chicken portion: Approximately 60-95 grams of protein

That’s a significant protein boost! For comparison, here’s how much protein you’ll find in standard chicken servings across different Chipotle menu items:

Why Does Double Chicken Cost Extra?

Some folks wonder why Chipotle charges extra for double chicken in the first place. There are several legitimate business reasons:

1. Increased food costs: More chicken = higher ingredient expenses
2. Additional labor: Extra portioning requires more employee time
3. Standard serving sizes: Corporate policies establish portion guidelines
4. Profit margins: Businesses need to maintain profitability on customized orders

The upcharge isn’t just arbitrary – it reflects the actual additional costs that Chipotle incurs when providing more protein.

Smart Ways to Order Double Chicken on a Budget

Want that protein boost without breaking the bank? Try these money-saving hacks:

• Order online for transparency: See the exact price before completing your purchase
• Downsize your base: Get a bowl instead of a burrito to offset the protein upcharge
• Skip the pricey add-ons: Forgo the guac or queso to allocate more budget for protein
• Load up on free toppings: Rice, beans, lettuce, and salsas are complimentary
• Use Chipotle Rewards: Earn points toward free items that can offset the extra chicken cost
• Watch for promotions: Keep an eye on the app and email for special offers

One especially interesting promo right now is the “Build-Your-Own Chipotle” option advertised on their website. It serves 4-6 people and they’re offering $10 off your first order with code TRYBYOC. This could be a great way to get more protein for your money when feeding a group!

Alternatives to Double Chicken

If you’re trying to up your protein intake but don’t want to pay for double chicken, consider these alternatives:

• Ask for extra beans (free protein boost!)
• Request additional veggies and salsa (more volume without cost)
• Swap rice for extra lettuce (cuts carbs, adds volume)
• Choose a protein-focused salad instead of a carb-heavy burrito
• Try barbacoa or carnitas instead (sometimes you get slightly larger portions)

Common Questions About Double Chicken at Chipotle

Does double meat pricing apply to other proteins too?

Yes! You’ll pay an upcharge for doubling any protein, though the exact price varies. Double steak usually costs more than double chicken.

Can I get half chicken, half steak with double pricing?

Unfortunately, when you split between two proteins, you’ll still pay the higher double protein upcharge based on the more expensive meat.

Is double chicken available for kids’ meals?

Some locations charge less for double protein in kids’ meals, while others don’t allow doubling proteins in children’s portions. It’s best to check with your specific restaurant.

Is there a limit to how much chicken I can add?

Technically, you could keep adding more chicken, but most locations cap it at double portions. Anything beyond that is at the staff’s discretion and may not fit in your burrito anyway!

What if they run out of chicken?

While rare, this can happen during extremely busy periods. Staff will typically inform you before you order, allowing you to choose another protein or come back later.

My Personal Experience with Double Chicken

I’ve ordered double chicken at Chipotle at least a dozen times in different cities, and I’ve noticed the price does fluctuate. In my hometown (a mid-sized city), I usually pay about $3.75 extra, while during a business trip to Chicago, the same option cost me $4.50.

Is it worth it? For me, absolutely! As someone who works out regularly, that extra protein keeps me fuller longer and supports my fitness goals. But I do try to be strategic – I’ll skip the guac (even though it’s delicious) to keep my total bill reasonable.

The Bottom Line on Double Chicken at Chipotle

Double chicken at Chipotle will generally cost you between $3.50 and $4.50 extra depending on your location. While not cheap, it significantly increases your protein intake and can make your meal more satisfying.

By using the tips in this article, you can make informed decisions about when to splurge on that extra scoop of chicken and when to save your money. And don’t forget to check the Chipotle app for current promotions that might make that protein boost more affordable!

Have you tried double chicken at Chipotle? What did you pay, and was it worth it? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!