Taco Bell’s Rolled Chicken Tacos are a fan-favorite item, known for their delicious crunch and savory, seasoned chicken filling. Whether you’re hosting a game night, craving a quick snack, or looking for a family-friendly meal, these rolled tacos are the perfect choice. With just the right blend of spices and texture, they’re irresistibly good. But what if you could make this crowd-pleasing dish at home? In this article, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to crafting your own homemade version of Taco Bell’s Rolled Chicken Tacos.
You’ll learn everything you need to know about recreating the crispy shell and flavorful chicken filling. We’ll explore key ingredients, helpful tips to perfect the process, and serving ideas that will elevate your taco night. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you make these rolled chicken tacos with ease, while offering plenty of variations and adaptations to suit different preferences and dietary needs.
Key Ingredients for Taco Bell Rolled Chicken Tacos
The foundation of any great recipe lies in the ingredients, and Taco Bell’s Rolled Chicken Tacos are no exception. While the ingredients are simple, each one plays an important role in creating that iconic taste and texture that keeps you coming back for more. Let’s break down the essential components of this dish:
1. Shredded Chicken
The star of this recipe is the shredded chicken. Taco Bell’s version uses seasoned, tender chicken that is both juicy and flavorful. For the best results, we recommend cooking the chicken in a pressure cooker or slow cooker with Mexican spices like cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and paprika. If you’re in a rush, store-bought rotisserie chicken can be a good shortcut, but make sure to season it well for that extra punch of flavor.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative, shredded jackfruit or soy-based chicken substitutes work well. These options absorb the spices just as effectively as real chicken, ensuring your tacos are just as tasty.
2. Corn Tortillas
The crispy exterior of the rolled chicken tacos comes from the corn tortillas. Their sturdiness makes them perfect for frying, giving you that satisfying crunch with every bite. Make sure to use fresh corn tortillas that are pliable enough to roll tightly around the filling. If your tortillas are too dry or stiff, briefly heating them on a skillet or microwave will help soften them up.
Substitutions: If you prefer flour tortillas, they can be used, though they won’t have the same authentic crunch. Gluten-free corn tortillas are also widely available for those avoiding gluten.
3. Seasonings and Spices
The right blend of spices is crucial for achieving the Taco Bell flavor profile. Common seasonings like cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder will give your shredded chicken that familiar Mexican-inspired taste. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
Substitutions: You can adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder for heat or swapping it with milder options like ancho chili powder for a smokier flavor. To keep it mild, simply reduce the amount of spice or omit the chili powder.
4. Cheese (Optional)
While not a part of the traditional recipe, adding shredded cheese inside the rolled tacos can enhance the flavor and provide a rich, creamy contrast to the crunchy exterior. A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack works well, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses.
Substitutions: Vegan cheese alternatives melt nicely and can be used for a dairy-free version.
5. Oil for Frying
A good frying oil is essential for achieving that golden, crispy shell. Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all excellent choices for frying, as they have high smoke points and won’t impart unwanted flavors.
Substitutions: For a healthier option, you can bake or air-fry the tacos, but the texture may not be quite as crunchy as deep frying.
6. Dipping Sauces
Taco Bell offers a variety of dipping sauces with their Rolled Chicken Tacos, such as guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. These sauces add another layer of flavor and can complement the spice in the chicken.
Substitutions: You can create your own dipping sauces, like a creamy avocado sauce, a tangy pico de gallo, or even a smoky chipotle mayo.
How to Make Taco Bell Rolled Chicken Tacos
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the fun part—making your own rolled chicken tacos! Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your tacos come out crispy, flavorful, and just like the ones from Taco Bell.
Step 1: Cook and Season the Chicken
Start by cooking your chicken. If using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, season them generously with cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, and paprika. You can either:
- Pressure Cook: Place the chicken in a pressure cooker with a bit of chicken broth and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally before shredding the chicken.
- Slow Cook: Place the seasoned chicken in a slow cooker with broth and cook on low for 4-6 hours until the chicken is tender and easy to shred.
- Stovetop: For a quicker method, cook the chicken in a skillet with a little oil over medium heat until cooked through, then shred.
Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks or a hand mixer for a finer texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas
While your chicken is cooking, warm your corn tortillas. You can either heat them briefly on a skillet over medium heat or microwave them with a damp paper towel for about 30 seconds. This step is crucial for making the tortillas pliable, so they don’t crack when you roll them.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolled Tacos
Place a small amount of shredded chicken (and cheese if using) onto the center of each tortilla. Be careful not to overfill, as it will make rolling difficult and could cause the tortilla to break. Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling, securing it with a toothpick if necessary to keep it from unraveling.
Step 4: Fry the Tacos
Heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of tortilla into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s good to go.
Carefully place the rolled tacos into the hot oil, seam side down, and fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Use tongs to turn the tacos as they cook.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once the tacos are crispy and golden, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them cool for a minute before serving with your choice of dipping sauces.
Tips for Perfecting Taco Bell Rolled Chicken Tacos
Creating the perfect Taco Bell Rolled Chicken Tacos at home requires a bit of finesse, but with these tips, you’ll get it right every time:
- Don’t Overfill: One common mistake is overfilling the tortillas. Keep the filling light to prevent the tacos from bursting open during frying.
- Use Fresh Tortillas: Fresh tortillas are easier to roll and less likely to crack. If your tortillas are dry, microwave them with a damp paper towel or warm them on a skillet before filling.
- Fry at the Right Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the tacos will burn on the outside before the filling is heated through. If it’s too cool, they’ll absorb too much oil and become greasy. Maintain a steady medium-high heat for even frying.
- Secure the Tacos: If your rolled tacos aren’t staying closed, use toothpicks to secure them while frying. Just remember to remove them before serving!
Presentation and Serving Ideas for Taco Bell Style Chicken Taquitos
Presentation can make a good dish even better, and these rolled chicken tacos are no exception. When serving, place the crispy tacos on a platter lined with fresh lettuce or shredded cabbage for a pop of color and added texture.
For a festive touch, arrange the tacos in a circular pattern around small bowls of dipping sauces like guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. Garnish the platter with lime wedges and cilantro for a fresh, vibrant look.
If you’re hosting a party, you can set up a taco bar with a variety of sauces and toppings, allowing guests to customize their tacos. Some popular choices include:
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds brightness and crunch to the tacos.
- Avocado Cream: A smooth blend of avocado, lime, and sour cream offers a creamy contrast to the crispy shell.
- Spicy Salsa Roja: For those who love heat, a spicy red salsa made from roasted tomatoes and chilies will elevate the flavors.
When it comes to beverages, rolled chicken tacos pair wonderfully with refreshing options like horchata, limeade, or a chilled agua fresca made from fruits like watermelon or mango. These drinks help balance the savory and spicy flavors of the dish.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Homemade Taco Bell Rolled Chicken Tacos
One of the best things about making your own rolled chicken tacos is the ability to customize them to your liking. Here are some variations and adaptations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
1. Vegan Rolled Tacos
For a vegan version, replace the chicken with seasoned, shredded jackfruit or a soy-based meat alternative. Jackfruit has a similar texture to shredded chicken and absorbs spices well. Use vegan cheese or skip it altogether for a dairy-free option.
2. Gluten-Free Option
Most traditional corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe easy to adapt for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure that all your ingredients, especially the seasonings, are certified gluten-free.
3. Spicy Chicken Tacos
If you love heat, amp up the spice level by adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the shredded chicken. You can also include some spicy salsa inside the tacos before rolling them for an extra kick.
4. Cheesy Rolled Tacos
For a cheesy variation, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese inside the tacos before rolling them up. You can also top the finished tacos with melted cheese and broil them for a minute for an ooey-gooey treat.
5. Baked Rolled Tacos
For a healthier alternative, you can bake the rolled tacos instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the rolled tacos on a baking sheet. Brush them lightly with oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
FAQs for Taco Bell Rolled Chicken Tacos
1. Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolled tacos ahead of time and refrigerate them before frying. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry them up and enjoy.
2. Can I freeze rolled chicken tacos?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled, uncooked tacos for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.
3. What other dipping sauces go well with rolled chicken tacos?
In addition to guacamole and salsa, queso dip, chipotle mayo, and ranch dressing are great options for dipping.
4. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas, though they won’t be as crispy as corn tortillas. If you prefer a softer texture, flour tortillas are a good choice.
5. Can I air-fry the tacos instead of deep-frying them?
Yes, air-frying is a great alternative to deep frying. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the tacos for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. How can I make these tacos spicier?
To increase the spice level, add extra chili powder, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to the chicken filling. You can also serve with a spicy salsa or hot dipping sauce.
Conclusion
Taco Bell’s Rolled Chicken Tacos are beloved for their crunchy exterior and flavorful filling, and now you can recreate this dish right in your own kitchen. With easy-to-find ingredients, straightforward steps, and plenty of opportunities to customize, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, main dish, or party appetizer, these rolled chicken tacos are sure to be a hit with everyone. Try out different variations, experiment with fillings and sauces, and make the recipe your own. Don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends—taco night just got a whole lot more exciting!
Now it’s time to grab your ingredients and start cooking. Be sure to let us know how your homemade Taco Bell Rolled Chicken Tacos turn out, and feel free to share your own twists on this delicious dish!