Chipotle is testing a new crispy chicken. Cue the internet debate

The “limited-time only” chicken war at Chipotle Mexican Grill is heating up with a new contender entering the ring –– crispy chicken.

Chipotle is testing a new crispy chicken protein offering at select stores in California, though some diners are still clamoring for the Tex-Mex chain’s current limited-time chicken offering, chipotle honey chicken.

In a statement shared with USA TODAY, Chipotle said it will “will use guest and operational feedback to determine whether to move forward with a broader market test as part of our stage-gate process.”

While Chipotle remains relatively tight-lipped about the product, social media users have shared photos of signage at test restaurants, which show that the crispy chicken is free of gluten, antibiotics and artificial ingredients.

Here’s what you should know about the internet’s reaction to Chipotle’s new crispy chicken.

Skeptics, fans sound off

Marketed as “tender, light and crispy,” some social media commenters are skeptical of the chicken’s ability to retain its crunchy exterior when mixed with guac, salsas and all the rest.

“Yuck it’s going to be SO soggy,” wrote one person on Instagram.

Over on Reddit, someone wrote, “crispy chicken does not remain crispy after cutting it up. All that breading is gonna steam itself in 5 mins. Hard pass.”

Others are thrilled and hoping for a nationwide rollout soon.

“Bruh bring it to [Florida],” urged one user.

“Hopefully Ohio next on the list,” wrote another wishfully.

Limited-time chicken wars heat up

Still, with chipotle honey chicken currently on the menu, some customers are arguing that the chain doesn’t need a new chicken option.

“ONLY thing you all need to add is the honey chicken permanently,” claimed one user, adding, “NOBODY wants fried chicken w their rice and beans.”

“They can take honey chicken from my cold, dead hands,” threatened another.

Is it vegan-friendly?

The fine print on one sign notes that the restaurant’s chips and crispy taco shells are fried in the same oil as the chicken, leaving vegan and vegetarian diners at a loss.

“They're really saying F our vegetarian customers with that move,” noted one person. “Frying the chicken and chips in the same oil? Chips are gonna start tasting funky.”

It’s unclear how long the test launch will last. Aside from sharing a statement, Chipotle didn't answer several other questions from USA TODAY.

Drew Pittock covers national trending news for USA TODAY. He can be reached at [email protected].