1. Chipotle launches Red Chimichurri, enhancing menu appeal. 2. New sauce aligns with Gen Z preferences for unique flavors. 3. Rewards members receive a free sample on September 30. 4. Red Chimichurri complements Carn Asada, driving customer engagement. 5. Limited-time offering aims to boost sales and attract guests.
The introduction of a new and appealing menu item could drive sales, as seen with previous successful launches like Adobo Ranch, which spurred customer interest and transactions. The timing also suggests potential for increased foot traffic and revenue, especially among Gen Z consumers who seek unique dining experiences.
The article details a significant marketing initiative that can tangibly influence consumer behavior and sales figures, especially with a focus on a target demographic that heavily impacts modern dining choices. The high engagement with sauces from Gen Z increases the likelihood of successful reception and sales growth.
The promotional rollout for Red Chimichurri and associated incentives for rewards members are expected to have immediate effects on sales and customer traffic in restaurants. In the past, limited-time offerings have successfully driven sales spikes shortly after launch.
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Sept. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) today announced the debut of Red Chimichurri, a chef-driven sauce that complements any Chipotle entrée. Prepared in-restaurant daily, this new take on the classic and premium chimichurri delivers tangy and bright flavor notes, complemented by chili peppers and fresh hand-cut cilantro. Red Chimichurri will be available across the U.S. and Canada for a limited time starting tomorrow, Tuesday, September 30. Chipotle Rewards members can try it for free on launch day.1
Red Chimichurri: Drizzling Bright and Tangy Flavor Onto Every Bite
Sauces are a core factor for Gen Z's cravings. Ninety two percent of Gen Z consumers say they would visit a restaurant just for a sauce.2 Building off the success of Adobo Ranch, Chipotle's first new dip in five years that helped acquire new guests and drive incremental transactions, the brand is unlocking Red Chimichurri. Made with roasted garlic, fresh cilantro, chili peppers and citrus juice, Red Chimichurri packs irresistible flavor into every bite. Made each day, Red Chimichurri is prepared with only real ingredients and no artificial preservatives, colors or flavors and is served on the side to drizzle onto any entrée.
"Red Chimichurri unlocks an all-new flavor profile that is unlike any menu item we introduced before," said Chris Brandt, President, Chief Brand Officer. "This is more than a new sauce – it's a new way for our fans to get creative and build the ultimate flavor combination."
Nevielle Panthaky, Vice President of Culinary recommends three curated entrée pairings to enjoy with Red Chimichurri:
Free Red Chimichurri Offer For Rewards Members
Chipotle Rewards members can try Red Chimichurri for free1 on Tuesday, September 30. Guests enrolled in Chipotle Rewards by 5 p.m. PT on Monday, September 29 will receive a free Red Chimichurri offer in their account on the next day.1
New members will instantly get a free guac offer after enrolling.3 The best way to Chipotle is in the app. Track points, redeem rewards and score free Chipotle. Download in the App Store or on Google Play.
Carne Asada Meets Red Chimichurri
Earlier this month, Chipotle brought back Carne Asada, the brand's most-searched menu item and the second-most searched limited time offering among all national restaurant brands in 2024.4 Known for its bold flavor and loyal following, Carne Asada is marinated, then seasoned on the grill with a signature spice blend including cumin, coriander, garlic and oregano and sliced into perfect tender, juicy bites. The protein is finished with fresh-squeezed lime and hand-chopped cilantro for a deeply rich, satisfying flavor. Red Chimichurri pairs deliciously with Carne Asada and is an entirely new way to enjoy one of Chipotle's most beloved limited time offerings.
For video assets of Red Chimichurri, please visit: youtube.com/watch?v=A432VV2hzUA
1 – Eligible Chipotle Rewards members receive one free side of Red Chimichurri with the purchase of at least one regular entrée. One-time use only. Valid only on 9/30/25 during regular business hours, after being added to participant's account. Valid for orders placed and fulfilled in-restaurant at participating Chipotle restaurants in the United States and Canada, and when ordering via the Chipotle mobile app or on the Chipotle website. Redemption is subject to availability at the time of redemption. May not be combined with other coupons, promotions, or special offers. A digital Reward coupon associated with a valid Chipotle Rewards account is required to redeem the offer. Presentation of valid Chipotle Rewards account required. Not valid on catering or orders on third party delivery platforms. "Regular menu entrée item" means a burrito, burrito bowl, single order of three (3) tacos, quesadilla (only available via the Chipotle App or on the Chipotle website), or a salad.
2 – Source: Rubix Foods: The NEXT Flavor Report: Feeding Gen Z's Cravings
3 – $5 minimum purchase required. Expires 7 days after receipt. Full terms: chipotle.com/free-guac
4 – Source: New York Post: "Top 10 Most-Missed Fast-Food Items Revealed"
About Chipotle
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically-cooked, real food with wholesome ingredients without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. There are over 3,800 restaurants as of June 30, 2025, in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Kuwait, and United Arab Emirates and it is the only restaurant company of its size that owns and operates all its restaurants in North America and Europe. With over 130,000 employees passionate about providing a great guest experience, Chipotle is a longtime leader and innovator in the food industry. Chipotle is committed to making its food more accessible to everyone while continuing to be a brand with a demonstrated purpose as it leads the way in digital, technology and sustainable business practices. For more information or to place an order online, visit CHIPOTLE.COM.
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SOURCE Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.