If you've followed the rise of Chipotle Mexican Grill's (CMG 0.17%) stock, you know that the company's phenomenal stock market returns have been buttressed by an almost linear rise in revenue over the years. The company's consistency in growing same-store sales is one reason some investors feel comfortable holding Chipotle despite a stock price that's currently more than 56 times trailing-12-month earnings.

In the following slideshow, you'll learn the method behind Chipotle's disciplined growth, as well as gain some insight into how this might affect future sales. Surprisingly, the company's strategy doesn't really rely on technology, promotional gimmicks, or an over-reliance on marketing and advertising.