El Pollo Loco has launched a limited-time flavour test of its new menu item, Mango Habanero chicken, in select locations across Orange County and Los Angeles in the US.

The fire-grilled chicken chain, known for its healthier options and bold flavours, is offering the sweet and spicy sauce on both individual and family meals to gauge customer interest.

Mango Habanero sauce combines sweetness with a kick of heat, creating a "swicy" flavour profile that is expected to entice fans of the brand.

Available for a short period, success in the test could lead to the sauce becoming a permanent fixture on El Pollo Loco's menu.

The exclusive Mango Habanero chicken is available as a three-piece meal and an eight-piece family meal.

The test locations in Orange County include two in Anaheim, at 1201 South Beach Boulevard and 969 South Euclid Avenue. At Buena Park, the sauce is available at 5251 Beach Boulevard.

It is also available at Rancho Santa Margarita at 22381 Antonio Parkway and in three outlets in Santa Ana: 101 South Harbor Boulevard, 2501 South Bristol Street and 1702 East 17th Street.

In Los Angeles, the sauce can be sampled at the Lynwood restaurant on 11118 Long Beach Boulevard.

El Pollo Loco has expanded to operate 495 restaurants, both company-owned and franchised, across seven US states. The brand has also grown internationally, establishing ten licensed locations in the Philippines.

In July 2024, the chain added three new Fire-Grilled Chicken Burritos to its menu: Guacamole Chicken Burrito, Chipotle Guacamole Chicken Burrito and Queso Guacamole Chicken Burrito.