The Grilled Chicken Challenge: KFC vs. EPL
By Rose Williams

I have been a long time fan of El Pollo Loco’s grilled chicken and was excited to hear Kentucky Fried Chicken added grilled chicken to their menu. I used to eat KFC quite often but eventually got tired of all the sodium and made the healthier choice to frequent EPL more. But today, I was tempted back to KFC to tryout their new grilled chicken and here’s what I concluded:

Presentation: What can I say? Chicken is what it is---chicken. KFC looks a bit more appealing to eat than EPL and KFC’s packaging wins hands down. When I get meals from El Pollo Loco, the sides are in separate containers and the chicken is thrown into a Smart & Final looking foam container. KFC did away with the little meal boxes and now packages meals in neat plastic compartmentalized trays—easy and convenient opening and accessibility. I’m sure Ed Begley Jr. and Friends of the Earth aren’t too pleased with either company’s recycling or go green environmental efforts. I wonder if any of them are chow hounds of these establishments?

Taste: I prefer the seasonings of Mr. Colonel Sanders. Those secret seasonings and spices sang through and the taste is much like the fried version without all the batter. If you prefer that straight off the grill taste mixed with subtle spices you’ll love EPL chicken. I’m still a huge fan of both but I’m leaning slightly more towards KFC as the taste champion. KFC’s grilled chicken will definitely give EPL a run for their money.

Bang For The Buck: El Pollo Loco kicks ass on giving you more food for your buck. Inspired by President Barack Obama, EPL offers reasonable and affordably priced Stimulus Family Meal Deals starting with the 6 piece leg and thigh meal with no sides for $4.99--add 3 sides for $5 more). EPL offers healthier side options and their side portions appear slightly bigger than KFC.

I’m happy to see KFC now offers a healthier option. I am now a fan of both EPL and KFC equally and would eat either if given the option. Honestly, I still think EPL offers a healthier menu and their grilled chicken probably has less sodium. But I encourage you to try both and make your own decision! Bon Apetite!