COSTA MESA, Calif., Jan. 02, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- El Pollo Loco (Nasdaq:LOCO), the nation's leading fire-grilled chicken chain, today announced four new ‘Under 500 Calories' menu items, available for a limited time at participating restaurants.  The new items feature nutrient-packed ingredients and El Pollo Loco's fresh, authentic flavors.

"We are excited to start 2018 with our new ‘Under 500 Calories' dishes that combine wholesome superfoods like avocado, spinach and brown rice with the very the best of El Pollo Loco, including our signature citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken and delicious baja shrimp," said Ed Valle, Chief Marketing Officer at El Pollo Loco. "For guests with resolutions to eat healthier in the year ahead and those simply looking for a lighter but equally delightful meal, El Pollo Loco offers a variety of great options including these new limited time offerings."

The new ‘Under 500 Calories' menu items include the following options:

• Double Chicken Fit Plate (410 calories): Double chicken, avocado, spinach, black beans, corn, cotija, pico de gallo
• Shrimp Avocado Plate (380 calories): Shrimp, avocado, spinach, brown rice, carrots, cabbage, pico de gallo
• Pollo Fit Burrito (460 calories): Chicken, avocado, spinach, cheese, carrots, cabbage, whole wheat tortilla, pico de gallo
• Power Bowl (470 calories): Chicken, avocado, brown rice, sour cream, black beans

El Pollo Loco is passionate about creating Mexican entrées that are made with fresh ingredients and provide a healthier alternative to typical fast food. The brand's menu features its signature citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken and authentic, handcrafted items inspired by the culinary and cultural traditions of its hometown Los Angeles. 

About El Pollo Loco:
El Pollo Loco (Nasdaq:LOCO) is the nation's leading fire-grilled chicken restaurant chain renowned for its masterfully citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken and handcrafted entrees using fresh ingredients inspired by Mexican recipes. With more than 470 company-owned and franchised restaurants in Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas and Utah, El Pollo Loco is expanding its presence in key markets through a combination of company and existing and new franchisee development. Visit us on our website at www.elpolloloco.com.

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Media Contact:
ICR
Christine Beggan/Kate Kohlbrenner
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