Chipotle Announces Return Of Its Beloved Carne Asada For A Limited Time

Heads up, Chipotle fans, because the restaurant is bringing back a protein many of you have been clamoring for. The Cali-Mex fast-casual chain announced in a recent press release that carne asada — that wonderfully seasoned, grill-kissed beef — is returning to U.S. and Canadian menus for a limited time, so get your burritos, tacos, bowls, and more while you can.

Carne asada (Spanish for grilled or roasted beef) is typically a thin cut, usually flank, flap, or skirt steak, marinated in spices, lime juice, and salt before being quickly grilled and chopped for use as a filling. Chipotle doesn't stray far from the classic recipe, marinating beef before grilling it with a rub containing cumin, coriander, and oregano and finishing it with lime and cilantro. The result is a vibrant yet rich protein that is Whole30-approved and friendly to those keeping to ketogenic and paleo diets.

First introduced in 2019, carne asada quickly became a popular addition to Chipotle's selections, which include grilled chicken, braised barbacoa, shredded carnitas, and sliced steak. The chain estimates that roughly 10 million customers gave carne asada a try when it was introduced, with a full half of them being first-time Chipotle customers. It was brought back in 2020, a move that cemented its position as one of the most requested menu items. 

One thing that's different from when it was available four years ago — there's now an official quesadilla on the Chipotle menu tailored for this protein. Coming standard with Monterey Jack cheese, customers can opt to add grilled veggies for a fajita quesadilla; and don't sleep on the sides, as quesadillas at Chipotle come with three. The company's head chef Nevielle Panthaky goes with cilantro-lime rice, a bit of black beans, and some sour cream to dunk the quesadilla in. For those currently salivating, take note: Chipotle's quesadillas are only available through its app and those of delivery partners, as well as its websites in the U.S. and Canada. 

What could make Chipotle's carne asada taste even better? Knowing that it is part of the chain's ongoing commitment to responsible environmental stewardship and ethical sourcing. The beef used for its carne asada is raised on a vegetarian diet and is completely free of antibiotics and hormones. That's a tall order, says Chipotle, who estimates that only about 5% of the beef raised in the U.S. meets its standards. To that end, Chipotle is working with cattle ranchers to create a robust supply chain that meets the needs of the "Food with Integrity" mission. Sweetening the pot further, Chipotle is offering free delivery on all carne asada orders placed through the Chipotle app or website from September 14 to October 1. Fajita, burrito, taco, or bowl — it sounds like a grilled dream come true.