Chipotle enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the return of a beloved menu item. After months of yearning, the chain has confirmed that its Chipotle Honey Chicken will be back in restaurants starting April 28.
This protein, first launched in 2025, is marinated with chipotle peppers and coated in honey, setting it apart from the regular chicken that undergoes an overnight marinade in chipotle pepper adobo.
For the first time, customers can order Chipotle Honey Chicken as a side dish through the new 'High Protein Cup' option. When the Honey Chicken initially debuted, it achieved the highest order rates of any limited-time offering in the chain's history, making its comeback widely anticipated.
Chipotle noted that after the sweet and spicy option was removed from menus, guests began requesting its return 'almost immediately.' The company stated, 'It's proof that when we get flavor and timing right, we create something fans can't stop thinking about.'
Earlier this year, Reddit users expressed their affection for the missing item, with one post declaring, 'it was the best thing I ever tasted at Chipotle.' While some incorporated the Honey Chicken into burritos and bowls, the new High Protein Cup provides an alternative way to enjoy it.
However, opinions are divided. Some customers felt the honey made the chicken 'too sweet' when paired with other items like roasted chili-corn salsa or fresh tomato salsa. Others welcomed the unique flavors as a refreshing change from their usual orders. A Reddit user commented, 'I really liked it. It was the perfect amount of heat without having to add hot salsa.'
This is not the only returning menu item. The fan-favorite chicken al pastor, with its pineapple-like flavor, made a brief appearance earlier this year. Customers have compared the two options. One Reddit user noted, 'Flavor-wise, it's got barbecue chicken vibes with a light spice, making it a solid winter option. Al Pastor is still on par, maybe even a little better, but this definitely holds its own.'
In March 2026, Chipotle introduced a new sauce made with cilantro, lime, Mexican spices, sour cream, and roasted jalapeños. It remains available at most locations as of late April. The brand aims to bring a 'new level of freshness' to existing options and cater to the 'growing obsession for sauce,' particularly among millennial and Gen Z diners.
Chipotle is also adjusting portion sizes to accommodate customers on GLP-1 medication. With over 3,700 locations nationwide, it stands as one of the largest fast-casual Mexican chains.
The 'High Protein Cup' with Adobo Chicken is a four-ounce side of chicken 'packed with flavor,' containing 180 calories and 32 grams of protein, starting at $3.50. Chipotle stated, 'Our new High Protein Menu offers more ways for guests to get the protein they want in the portions that work for them, whether that is a lighter bite or a more substantial build.'
CEO Scott Boatwright revealed that Chipotle added over 300 new restaurants and made progress on its 'operating initiatives' just months after introducing the Honey Chicken in 2025.
