Eating Keto? Try These 11 El Pollo Loco Low Carb Menu Picks!
Are There Low Carb Options at El Pollo Loco?
✅ YES! – El Pollo Loco low carb options include fire-grilled chicken, keto-friendly salads, and tortilla-free tacos. Just skip the rice, beans, and sugary sauces to keep it keto-approved.
Craving some juicy, fire-grilled chicken but trying to keep it low-carb? Good news! El Pollo Loco has plenty of keto-friendly options!
Whether you’re in the mood for a protein-packed bowl, a fresh and flavorful salad, or even a taco (yes, really!), you don’t have to let carbs get in the way of a delicious meal.
The trick? Smart ordering. Skip the rice, beans, and tortillas, and load up on grilled chicken, avocado, cheese, and fresh veggies instead.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best low-carb options at El Pollo Loco, share ordering tips, and answer some common keto questions.
So, if you’re ready to enjoy a satisfying, guilt-free meal without the carb crash, let’s get started!
Table of Contents:
- Is El Pollo Loco Keto?
- 11 El Pollo Loco Low Carb Menu Options to Order
- Ordering Tips To Keep El Pollo Loco Keto
- What To Avoid on Keto at El Pollo Loco
- More Keto-Friendly Restaurants To Try
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
Is El Pollo Loco Keto?
Absolutely! If you’re on keto and craving something fast, flavorful, and satisfying, El Pollo Loco is a solid choice.
Their menu is packed with fire-grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and tasty toppings—aka everything you need for a low-carb feast.
Of course, not everything is keto-friendly (looking at you, rice, beans, and tortillas). But with a few smart swaps, you can enjoy a delicious meal without worrying about carb overload.
Just stick to grilled proteins, healthy fats, and low-carb veggies, and you’re good to go. Ready to see the best keto-friendly picks at El Pollo Loco?
Let’s check them out!
11 El Pollo Loco Low Carb Menu Options to Order
El Pollo Loco has plenty of options to keep you satisfied. From protein-packed bowls to fresh salads and even keto-friendly tacos, there’s no need to feel limited.
Here’s a breakdown of the best picks to help you stay on track while enjoying every bite.
Keto-Friendly Bowls and Salads
These bowls and salads are loaded with protein and healthy fats, making them a solid choice for a low-carb meal.
Just a heads-up, you might need to tweak a few ingredients to keep things fully keto, but don’t worry, it’s an easy fix!
1. Original Pollo Bowl (Without Rice or Beans)
Order the Original Pollo Bowl, but skip the rice and beans to keep it low-carb. It’s a simple yet protein-packed option with chopped chicken breast, fresh pico de gallo, diced onions, and cilantro.
Since it’s on the lighter side, consider adding a side of steamed broccoli to round out your meal!
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Total fats: 3 grams
- Net carbs: 1 gram
- Protein: 24 grams
2. Classic Tostada Salad (Without Shell, Rice, or Beans)
Ditch the fried tostada shell, rice, and pinto beans, and you’ve got yourself a fresh, protein-packed salad that won’t kick you out of ketosis.
Even with those tweaks, it’s still a tasty mix—tender grilled chicken, melty Monterey Jack cheese, zesty pico de gallo, and a creamy swirl of sour cream. It’s like a deconstructed taco, minus the carbs!
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Total fats: 11 grams
- Net carbs: 4 grams
- Protein: 29 grams
3. The World’s First Keto Burrito
Imagine all the bold flavors of a classic burrito, juicy chopped grilled chicken, cotija cheese, creamy avocado slices, and flavorful pico de gallo salsa wrapped up in a low-carb, high-fiber tortilla.
That’s exactly what El Pollo Loco’s Keto Burrito brings to the table. It skips the usual carb-heavy fillers like rice and beans, making it a solid choice for anyone sticking to a low-carb lifestyle.
Packed with protein and healthy fats, keto burrito is satisfying without the blood sugar spike. Who knew going keto could still mean enjoying a burrito?
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 510 kcal
- Total fats: 29 grams
- Net carbs: 9 grams
- Protein: 52 grams
4. Double Chicken Avocado Salad (Without Corn)
A hearty, protein-packed salad that actually fills you up! This bowl of goodness comes with grilled chicken, creamy avocado, crisp lettuce, shredded cheese, and fresh pico de gallo.
Skip the corn to keep it keto, and you’ve got a low-carb meal loaded with healthy fats and flavor. Simple, fresh, and totally satisfying!
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Total fats: 12 grams
- Net carbs: 4 grams
- Protein: 50 grams
5. Double Protein Mexican Caesar Bowl
This bowl brings the flavor and the crunch! It starts with fire-grilled chicken breast on a bed of organic super greens, crisp red cabbage, and fresh lettuce.
Sliced radishes add a peppery bite, while crumbled cotija cheese and creamy avocado bring richness. A sprinkle of Tapatío seasoning ties it all together, with a zesty lemon wedge on the side for that extra kick!
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total fats: 9 grams
- Net carbs: 4 grams
- Protein: 47 grams
6. Grande Avocado Chicken Bowl (Without Rice, Beans, or Corn)
This bowl is loaded with flavor and texture! You’ll get tender chopped chicken breast, melty Monterey Jack cheese, crisp cabbage, fresh pico de gallo, creamy sour cream, and buttery avocado slices.
To keep it keto, be sure to skip the rice, beans, and corn. Those carbs add up fast and could throw you off track!
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total fats: 19 grams
- Net carbs: 3 grams
- Protein: 32 grams
Keto-Friendly Tacos
Yes, you can still enjoy tacos on keto—just with a little twist! Skip the tortilla and enjoy the delicious fillings with a fork or wrapped in lettuce (if available).
Each of these tacos delivers bold flavors, quality proteins, and fresh toppings without the unnecessary carbs.
7. Chicken Avocado Street Taco (Served Without a Tortilla)
Skip the flour tortilla and dig into a flavorful mix of chopped chicken breast, crisp shredded lettuce, fresh pico de gallo, melty jack cheese, and creamy avocado slices.
It all comes together with a rich, low-carb cilantro dressing that adds the perfect finishing touch!
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Total fats: 16 grams
- Net carbs: 2 grams
- Protein: 22 grams
8. Baja Shrimp Street Taco (Served Without a Tortilla)
Who says you can’t enjoy shrimp tacos on keto? This dish brings you juicy Baja shrimp, crunchy cabbage, and fresh pico de gallo, all topped with a zesty Baja sauce.
Just skip the tortilla, and you’ve got a low-carb, high-flavor meal that’s light, refreshing, and totally satisfying!
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Total fats: 15 grams
- Net carbs: 2 grams
- Protein: 5 grams
9. Chicken Taco Al Carbon (Served Without a Tortilla)
If you’re craving bold flavors without the carbs, this one’s for you! It features smoky, Mexican-style grilled chicken, topped with fresh diced onions and cilantro.
Just ditch the tortilla and enjoy it with a fork.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Total fats: 3.5 grams
- Net carbs: 1 gram
- Protein: 14 grams
10. The World’s First Keto Taco
This isn’t just any taco; it comes with a high-fiber, low-carb tortilla, making it one of the rare fast-food tacos you can enjoy without guilt.
Inside, you’ll find chopped chicken breast, fresh pico de gallo, creamy avocado slices, crisp shredded lettuce, and jack cheese, all drizzled with a flavorful cilantro dressing.
It’s a satisfying, low-carb bite that doesn’t feel like a compromise.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total fats: 17 grams
- Net carbs: 5 grams
- Protein: 18 grams
Keto-Friendly Proteins
Sometimes, the simplest option is the best. If you’re looking for a high-protein, zero-carb meal, just go for the grilled chicken!
11. Fire-Grilled Chicken
If you’re looking for a simple, protein-packed option, El Pollo Loco’s fire-grilled chicken breast is a solid choice.
Juicy, flavorful, and cooked over an open flame, this tender chicken breast is high in protein and naturally low in carbs.
Pair it with a side of broccoli or cilantro lime cauliflower rice for a complete keto-friendly meal!
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total fats: 9 grams
- Net carbs: 0 grams
- Protein: 36 grams
Ordering Tips to Keep El Pollo Loco Keto
Sticking to keto at El Pollo Loco is easier than you think, you just need to know what to tweak! Here are some simple hacks to keep your meal low-carb and satisfying:
- Ditch the Carby Sides: Skip the rice, beans, corn, and tortillas. Instead, go for steamed broccoli, extra avocado, or a fresh side salad.
- Embrace the Healthy Fats: Ask for extra cheese, avocado, or sour cream to boost your fat intake and keep you full longer.
- Go Big on Protein: Opt for fire-grilled chicken breast, double protein options, or the Double Chicken Tostada Salad (without the tostada shell and beans).
- Think Outside the Tortilla: Most tacos and burritos can be enjoyed without the wrap. Just eat the fillings with a fork or ask for lettuce (if available) instead!
- Sauce Smartly: Some dressings and sauces contain hidden sugars. Stick to creamy cilantro dressing, guacamole, or a simple squeeze of lemon for flavor without the carbs.
With a few tweaks, you can enjoy a delicious, keto-friendly meal at El Pollo Loco without sacrificing taste. Customize your order and keep it low-carb!
What to Avoid on Keto at El Pollo Loco
Not everything on the menu is keto-friendly, and a few sneaky ingredients can throw off your macros. Here’s what to watch out for when ordering.
- Say No to Starches: Rice, beans, and corn may seem harmless, but they’re packed with carbs that can quickly add up.
- Skip the Tortillas & Tostada Shells: Even whole wheat or “low-fat” options aren’t keto-friendly. Stick to lettuce wraps (if available) or just enjoy the fillings.
- Beware of Sugary Sauces: BBQ sauce, sweet dressings, and even some salsas can contain hidden sugars. Opt for creamy cilantro dressing or fresh lemon juice instead.
- Avoid Breaded Proteins: Anything crispy or fried is likely coated in carb-heavy breading. Choose grilled chicken or shrimp for a cleaner option.
By avoiding these carb-heavy choices, you can keep your meal keto-friendly without second-guessing your order. Stick to the basics and you’ll be good to go!
More Keto-Friendly Restaurants to Try
If you love El Pollo Loco but want more variety, here are some other fast-food spots with great keto options:
- Chipotle Keto Meal: 5 Easy Hacks to Slash Those Carbs!
- 7 Keto at Qdoba Options for a Low-Carb Lunch
- Keto at Jack in the Box: 11 Low-Carb Hacks You Need
- 20+ Keto at Wendy’s Menu: Burgers, Salads, & More!
- Burger King Keto: 15+ Low-Carb Meals for Keto Dieters
Frequently Asked Questions
Does El Pollo Loco Have a Nutrition Calculator for Low-Carb Tracking?
Yes! El Pollo Loco has a nutrition calculator on their website where you can customize your order and see the exact macros.
What Are the Best Dipping Sauces at El Pollo Loco for a Low-Carb Diet?
Stick to keto-friendly sauces like creamy cilantro dressing, guacamole, and salsa. They’re low in carbs and full of flavor. Avoid BBQ sauce, sweet dressings, and anything with added sugar.
What Drinks at El Pollo Loco Are Low in Carbs?
Stick with water, unsweetened iced tea, or diet soda if you must. Avoid sugary drinks like horchata or lemonade.
Final Thoughts
El Pollo Loco offers plenty of keto-friendly options, from fire-grilled chicken to fresh salads and tasty tacos (minus the tortillas). Just be mindful of hidden carbs in rice, beans, and sugary sauces.
With a few simple modifications, you can enjoy a satisfying low-carb meal without any hassle.
Looking for more keto dining guides? Check out our website for tips on what to order at your favorite restaurants while staying low-carb!