If you think that Chipotle has gone downhill in recent years, you’re not alone. Sales have been sluggish for the chain, and customers are fed up with shrinking burrito sizes.
Chipotle is trying to win back your business, though, and this time it’s with the return of a popular protein option. Carne asada made waves when it was first launched in 2019 because at the time, the chain rarely released new proteins.
Here’s all the deets on Chipotle’s carne asada, plus an outstanding deal for a free burrito.
What Is the Carne Asada at Chipotle?
Chipotle always has steak as an option, but the carne asada is a more flavorful version. The beef is marinated, then grilled in-store and seasoned with cumin, coriander, garlic, and oregano. Once it’s cooked, it’s sliced and sprinkled with lime juice and fresh cilantro for a refreshing kick. You can order it in any Chipotle entree, including burritos, bowls, salads, and quesadillas.
Is It Any Good?
In 2024, carne asada was the most searched-for Chipotle limited-time menu item on Google, so people were craving it. This is the fourth time carne asada has made an appearance on the burrito line since 2019, and fans were sad when the chain discontinued it again. People love it, and it’s got a loyal following — something that Chipotle as a whole doesn’t have much of anymore.
When Can I Get It?
Chipotle’s carne asada will be back in restaurants starting on Thursday, September 4. It’s a limited-time offer, though, so that means you won’t have forever to get it. Unfortunately, the company doesn’t announce when limited-time proteins will be leaving the menu, but we can guess that it’ll be around for a month or two.
How Much Does the Carne Asada Cost?
Prices will vary by location, but considering beef prices are high, expect to pay a pretty penny for it. Previously, the carne asada has been the highest-priced protein option at Chipotle, even more expensive than the regular steak. You’ll probably see it on menus for between $12 and $14 this time around.
Are There Any Deals on It?
Yep! While Chipotle is notorious for always charging extra for guacamole, there is a way to get a free burrito (carne asada or otherwise) coming up. On September 15, 2025, head to your local Chipotle after 5 p.m. and you can get buy-one-get-one-free entrees. The catch? This deal is in honor of college football season kicking off, so you have to be wearing a college football jersey to score the BOGO. Thankfully, if you know someone who has one, they can get up to five BOGO offers on the same check and share them with you.
If delivery is more your thing, you can get a zero-dollar delivery fee on any order over $10 that includes a carne asada item. Just order on the Chipotle website or mobile app between Sept. 8 and 30.
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