This SoCal Restaurant Chain Is Testing Crispy Chicken

NEWPORT BEACH, CA — Chipotle is testing out crispy chicken at some of its California locations, according to recent reports.

The new protein option is available for a limited time in select restaurants, the Newport Beach-based chain confirmed to Nation’s Restaurant News.

“We will use guest and operational feedback to determine whether to move forward with a broader market test as part of our stage-gate process,” a Chipotle spokesperson told KTLA in a statement.

KTLA social media producer Marco Ramirez found the crispy chicken at a location in Irvine, the outlet reported. TikToker sophiesophss ordered the new chicken offering at a Tustin location and had good things to say.

"Even though there's a ton of wet ingredients in here, the chicken stays crunchy,” she said in her TikTok review of a burrito featuring the chicken.

Some social media users were skeptical, with one Redditor questioning the chicken’s ability to stay crispy once cut. An Instagram commenter suggested the company consider introducing a different protein like salmon or shrimp.

Chipotle’s fried chicken foray comes after Taco Bell saw success with the concept, according to Nation’s Restaurant News, which noted the fast food giant reported its crispy chicken items drove almost a quarter of all new customers in 2025.