El Pollo Loco Blogs
Must-Try El Pollo Loco Side Dishes in 2026
Donald — Updated on July 22, 2026
Must-Try El Pollo Loco Side Dishes in 2026, When most people visit El Pollo Loco, the first thing they think about is the famous fire-grilled chicken. While the chicken is definitely the star of the menu, I recently realized that the side dishes deserve just as much attention. I ordered a few different sides with my meal, and honestly, they made the whole experience even better.
If you’re not sure what to order on your next visit, here are the El Pollo Loco side dishes that I think are absolutely worth trying.
Mexican Rice
The Mexican rice is one of the most popular side dishes, and it’s easy to see why. It’s soft, fluffy, and packed with a mild tomato flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken. Every bite tastes fresh, and it’s filling without feeling too heavy.
If you’re ordering a chicken meal, this is one of the safest and most satisfying side options.
Charro Beans
I wasn’t expecting much from the beans, but they were surprisingly delicious. The charro beans have a rich, homemade flavor with just the right amount of seasoning. They are warm, comforting, and go really well with almost everything on the menu.
They’re also a great option if you’re looking for something high in protein.
Street Corn
This was easily my favorite side dish.
The street corn is sweet, smoky, creamy, and topped with cheese and flavorful seasoning. Every bite has the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. It feels more like something you’d order from a local food truck than a fast-food restaurant.
If you’ve never tried it before, I highly recommend adding it to your meal.
Mac & Cheese
Sometimes you’re just in the mood for comfort food, and El Pollo Loco’s mac and cheese does not disappoint.
The pasta is creamy, cheesy, and smooth. It pairs surprisingly well with the grilled chicken and makes the meal feel even more satisfying. Kids and adults will both enjoy this classic side.
Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
If you’re looking for something warm and comforting, the mashed potatoes are a great choice. They are creamy, soft, and covered with savory gravy that adds plenty of flavor.
It’s one of those side dishes that makes your meal feel complete.
Fresh Broccoli
For anyone trying to eat a little healthier, the fresh broccoli is a smart option. It’s lightly cooked so it stays fresh and slightly crisp. It adds a nice balance to heavier menu items and works perfectly with the grilled chicken.
Simple doesn’t have to mean boring.
Side Salad
The side salad is fresh, colorful, and light. It includes crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and other fresh vegetables with your choice of dressing.
If you’re trying to enjoy a balanced meal, this is one of the best sides on the menu.
Which Side Should You Choose?
After trying several different options, here are my personal favorites:
- Street Corn for the best overall flavor.
- Mexican Rice for a classic pairing.
- Charro Beans if you want something filling.
- Mac & Cheese when you’re craving comfort food.
- Fresh Broccoli for a healthier choice.
No matter what you order, these sides make your meal even better.
Final Thoughts
El Pollo Loco is famous for its fire-grilled chicken, but the side dishes deserve plenty of attention too. From the creamy mac and cheese to the flavorful street corn and hearty charro beans, every side adds something special to your meal.
The next time you visit El Pollo Loco, don’t just focus on the main dish. Try one or two of these delicious sides, and you might discover a new favorite.
