Have you ever been standing in line at Chipotle, staring at their menu board, and wondered what the heck chicken al pastor actually tastes like? Well, I’ve been there too! As a food enthusiast who’s always on the hunt for exciting flavors, I couldn’t resist trying this limited-time offering that’s been causing quite a buzz. Today, I’m gonna break down exactly what this flavor-packed protein option tastes like and whether it’s worth ordering on your next Chipotle run.
What Exactly Is Chicken Al Pastor?
Before diving into the taste profile, let’s understand what we’re dealing with here. Chicken al pastor is Chipotle’s spin on the traditional Mexican dish “Tacos al Pastor,” which typically features marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit. In Chipotle’s version, they’ve swapped the pork for chicken and created a unique marinade that aims to capture the essence of the original dish.
According to Chipotle’s own description, their Chicken al Pastor is:
- Made with fresh chicken hot off the grill
- Marinated in seared morita peppers and ground achiote
- Balanced with a splash of pineapple
- Finished with fresh lime and hand-chopped cilantro
So that’s what they say it is. but what does it actually taste like?
The Flavor Profile: Sweet Meets Heat
After trying Chipotle’s Chicken al Pastor myself (and reading countless reviews) I can confirm that this protein option offers a truly distinctive taste experience that differs from their regular chicken offering.
The Dominant Flavors
The chicken al pastor has a complex flavor profile that can be broken down into these key elements
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Smoky & Spicy Base: The seared morita peppers and achiote create a rich, smoky foundation with a mild to moderate heat level.
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Surprising Sweetness: The pineapple marinade adds an unexpected sweetness that balances the spice perfectly.
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Citrus Notes: The fresh lime finish gives it a bright, tangy quality that cuts through the richness.
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Herbal Finish: The hand-chopped cilantro adds that classic Mexican flavor that ties everything together.
One food journalist described it as having “a minor kick” spice-wise, but noted it was “easy to amp up with the addition of salsa.” The chicken was consistently described as “loaded with flavor” with noticeable “notes of lime and pineapple.”
How Does It Compare to Traditional Al Pastor?
If you’re familiar with traditional al pastor made with pork, you might be wondering how this chicken version stacks up. While it doesn’t fully replicate the complex flavors of authentic al pastor (which develops its distinctive taste from slow-roasting on a vertical spit), Chipotle’s version does capture the essential sweet-spicy balance that makes al pastor so craveable.
The main differences are:
- Chicken tends to be leaner and milder than pork
- The cooking method differs (grilled vs. vertical spit)
- The intensity of smoke flavor is generally less pronounced
That said, many reviewers have praised Chipotle’s adaptation as being flavorful and true to the spirit of al pastor, even if it’s not an exact replica.
Texture Matters Too!
Taste isn’t just about flavor – texture plays a huge role in our eating experience! According to Chef Lola from Chef Lola’s Kitchen, the chicken al pastor at Chipotle has an excellent texture:
“The chicken itself was cooked to perfection – tender and juicy, with a slight char on the outside that added to its smoky flavor. I appreciated that the chicken wasn’t too dry or chewy, which can sometimes be the case with grilled meats.”
This char element adds another dimension to the flavor profile, enhancing the smokiness that complements the sweet-spicy marinade.
How Spicy Is It Really?
One of the most common questions about chicken al pastor is about its heat level. Based on multiple reviews and my own experience, I’d rate it as a medium spice level – definitely noticeable but not overwhelming.
Chipotle describes their chicken al pastor as delivering “the right amount of heat balanced with a splash of pineapple.” Most reviewers found this to be accurate, with Food Network noting it had “a minor kick” that could be enhanced with additional salsa if desired.
If you’re sensitive to spice, you might find it a bit hot, but for most people, it falls into the “pleasantly spicy” category rather than the “mouth on fire” territory.
Best Pairings for Chicken Al Pastor
The complex flavors of chicken al pastor make it versatile enough to work well in various Chipotle menu items. Based on reviews and recommendations, here are the best ways to enjoy it:
- In a bowl: The most popular option, allowing the flavors to shine alongside complementary ingredients.
- In a burrito: Works great wrapped up with rice, beans and other fillings.
- As tacos: A more traditional presentation that highlights the al pastor flavor.
- In a quesadilla: The cheese adds richness that balances the spice nicely.
According to Chef Lola, “The Chicken Al Pastor paired well with various Chipotle ingredients, such as cilantro-lime rice, black beans, pico de gallo, and guacamole. The tangy and smoky flavors of the chicken complemented the freshness of the pico de gallo and the creaminess of the guacamole.”
Health Considerations
For those watching their nutrition, chicken al pastor is a relatively healthy protein option at Chipotle. It’s:
- Lower in calories and fat compared to some other protein options
- Gluten-free (good news for those with celiac disease)
- Contains no artificial flavors or preservatives
However, it’s worth noting that it may not be suitable for those with pineapple allergies or extreme sensitivity to spicy foods.
My Personal Experience
When I tried the chicken al pastor for the first time, I was honestly surprised by how much I enjoyed the combination of flavors. I’m usually a steak or barbacoa person at Chipotle, but the unique sweet-spicy balance of the al pastor had me reconsidering my usual order.
I had it in a bowl with cilantro-lime rice, black beans, corn salsa, and a bit of guacamole. The sweetness from the pineapple marinade was more subtle than I expected – not at all overpowering but definitely noticeable. The heat built gradually as I ate, but never became uncomfortable.
What impressed me most was how the chicken remained juicy and tender, unlike some grilled chicken which can become dry. The char marks added both visual appeal and a smoky dimension that really elevated the whole experience.
Is It Worth Trying?
If you’re still wondering whether chicken al pastor is worth venturing away from your usual Chipotle order, here’s my take:
Absolutely yes if:
- You enjoy sweet and spicy flavor combinations
- You’re looking for something different from the standard Chipotle proteins
- You appreciate complex, layered flavors
Maybe skip if:
- You strongly dislike any hint of sweetness in savory foods
- You’re extremely sensitive to spice
- You’re allergic to any of the ingredients (like pineapple)
The Verdict
Based on my experience and the reviews I’ve analyzed, Chipotle’s Chicken al Pastor delivers a unique and satisfying flavor profile that successfully balances sweet, spicy, smoky, and tangy elements. It’s not an exact replica of traditional al pastor, but it stands on its own as a delicious protein option that brings something new to Chipotle’s menu.
The limited-time availability makes it even more special – so if you’re curious about trying it, don’t wait too long! According to Food Network, this offering is available at Chipotle locations worldwide, including restaurants in the U.S., Canada, U.K., France, and Germany.
FAQs About Chicken Al Pastor
Q: Is chicken al pastor very spicy?
A: It has a moderate level of spice – noticeable but not overwhelming. The heat is balanced by the sweetness from the pineapple.
Q: Is Chipotle’s chicken al pastor keto-friendly?
A: Not really. The pineapple juice in the marinade adds carbs that aren’t ideal for keto diets. Chipotle offers better keto options like their Keto Salad Bowl.
Q: How long will chicken al pastor be available at Chipotle?
A: It’s a limited-time offering, so availability will vary. It’s best to check with your local Chipotle for the most current information.
Q: Does chicken al pastor contain gluten?
A: According to Chipotle, their chicken al pastor recipe is gluten-free.
Q: What’s the most popular way to order chicken al pastor?
A: Based on customer ordering patterns, the burrito bowl appears to be the most popular way to enjoy chicken al pastor.
Remember, this limited-time offering won’t be around forever, so don’t miss your chance to experience this unique flavor combination for yourself!
Pairing Chicken Al Pastor with Other Ingredients
The Chicken Al Pastor paired well with various Chipotle ingredients, such as cilantro-lime rice, black beans, pico de gallo, and guacamole. The tangy and smoky flavors of the chicken complemented the freshness of the pico de gallo and the creaminess of the guacamole. The cilantro-lime rice added a nice contrast to the bold flavors of the chicken, creating a harmonious and satisfying meal.
A Delicious Blend of Spices and Sweetness
Upon tasting the Chicken Al Pastor, I was immediately struck by the complexity and balance of flavors. The blend of spices, including chili powder, cumin, and paprika, created a warm and smoky taste, while the pineapple juice added a touch of sweetness. The chicken was cooked to perfection – tender and juicy, with a slight char on the outside that added to its smoky flavor.
I particularly enjoyed the interplay of the smoky chicken with the tangy pineapple, which added a unique and refreshing twist.
The chicken itself was cooked to perfection – tender and juicy, with a slight char on the outside that added to its smoky flavor. I appreciated that the chicken wasnt too dry or chewy, which can sometimes be the case with grilled meats. The texture was just right, making it easy to enjoy in a burrito, bowl, or tacos.
Overall, the flavors were well-balanced and not too overpowering, making it a delightful option for those who enjoy a bit of a kick in their meals.
In comparison to other Chipotle offerings and dishes from other Mexican restaurants, the Chicken Al Pastor holds its own. The unique combination of flavors and the tender, juicy chicken set it apart from more traditional options like grilled chicken or steak. While it may not replace the classic Tacos al Pastor made with pork, Chipotles Chicken Al Pastor offers a delicious and healthier alternative for those seeking a new taste adventure.
One of the advantages of Chipotles Chicken Al Pastor is its relatively healthy nutritional profile. The dish is lower in calories and fat compared to other protein options like pork. For those with dietary restrictions, the Chicken Al Pastor is gluten-free, but it may not be suitable for those who need to avoid spicy foods or pineapple due to allergies or sensitivities.