Free Chicken Up For Grabs to Celebrate Idaho’s First ‘El Pollo Loco’

Restaurants in the Treasure Valley? There's a new one every week, it seems.

Chicken in the Treasure Valley? Well, we can't imagine that there will ever be a shortage of that.

While our community loves supporting local business, over the last couple of years, we have seen an impressive uptick in CHAIN restaurants opening in the area. We aren't talking about the likes of McDonalds, though. It seems that all of these new openings are new chains, or, at least new to Idaho.

In-N-Out, Raising Cane's and many more have opened their doors in Idaho for the FIRST time in recent months or years.

The overwhelming trend has been: chicken joints.

El Pollo Loco, a popular national chicken chain opened up in the Treasure Valley weeks ago--making it their first Idaho location ever. Located right on Chinden and Ten Mile, it brings a new taken on chicken to the area and their self-touted specialty of 'citrus-marinated, fire-grilled chicken'.

The reviews early on? Not so good.

While we assume they have been working out the kinks, this new franchise has now announced an 'official' 'Grand Opening Celebration' to take place on Friday, July 24th.

In a press release, El Pollo Loco shared that there will be FREE CHICKEN available to their most dedicated 'party goers'...

During the celebration, the first 100 guests who visit the restaurant will receive a FREE 2-Piece Chicken Leg & Thigh Meal, with no purchase necessary, while supplies last*. Additionally, guests will have the opportunity to spin the prize wheel for the chance to win El Pollo Loco swag, exclusive offers and free menu items while supplies last**. The celebration will also feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Meridian Chamber of Commerce, music and additional grand opening festivities.

From burritos to bowls, tacos and more, expect a great time at El Pollo Loco located at 3471 E. Chinden Blvd in Meridian. The restaurant opens daily at 10:00 a.m.

Here's what people had to say after their initial opening...