What are El Pollo Loco Loco Tenders?

El Pollo Loco launches “Loco Tenders” nationwide

El Pollo Loco is rolling out a new take on chicken tenders with its “Loco Tenders” launch, bringing a brand-specific spin to a familiar menu item. The rollout is scheduled for April 23, and the chain previewed the product at the Revolve Festival.

What’s new

The headline change is the product name and concept: instead of “plain” tenders, El Pollo Loco is positioning them as a new lineup item tailored to its existing flavors and brand identity.

When and where they arrive

The story indicates the new tenders will be available on menus nationwide starting April 23, following the festival preview.

Why this matters

Chicken tenders are a competitive category for quick-service restaurants, and new variants can shift what consumers pick up on game days, family meals, and casual weeknight dinners. A nationwide launch also signals El Pollo Loco is investing in a menu extension beyond its core chicken offerings.

While the provided details don’t include pricing, sauce options, or specific breading/flavor descriptions beyond the general “Loco” framing, the key practical takeaway for diners is timing and availability: if you’re a regular at El Pollo Loco, April 23 is when the new tenders should start showing up on the menu.