Name: Crispy Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos for a Fun Family Feast
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces Flour Tortillas (Fajita-sized); 1 cup Crispy Fried Onions; 2 cups Iceberg Lettuce (Chopped); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Shredded); 6 slices Bacon (Smoky, or turkey bacon); 1 pound Chicken Tenderloins; 1 cup Buttermilk; 1 cup Flour (Gluten-free if needed); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Pepper; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika; 1 cup Cooking Oil (High smoke point oil); 1 cup Ranch Dressing (Store-bought or homemade)

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Taco night has never been this exciting! Imagine the crispy crunch of hand-breaded chicken tenderloins wrapped in warm tortillas, accompanied by smoky bacon, fresh lettuce, and a drizzle of zesty homemade ranch. These Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos are a fun, family-friendly option that perfectly balances crispy and creamy textures. Better yet, they whip up quickly, making them an ideal choice for those busy weeknight dinners when you crave something delicious yet easy to prepare. With endless variations to explore, you can customize these tacos to suit your family’s tastes. Are you ready to take your taco game to the next level?

Why You’ll Love Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos

Family-Friendly Fun: These tacos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, featuring crispy chicken and smokey bacon that even picky eaters will adore.

Versatile Delight: Customize with your favorite toppings or sauces, whether you prefer a classic ranch or want to spice things up with BBQ sauce!

Quick & Easy: With a prep time that fits into your busy evenings, you can have dinner on the table in no time—perfect for a delightful weeknight adventure!

Ultimate Crunch: Enjoy the satisfying crunch from hand-breaded chicken, crispy fried onions, and fresh lettuce, combining taste and texture in every bite.

Perfect for Meal Prep: You can whip these up ahead of time; pair with cool ranch tortilla chips for a fun family feast on taco night!

Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos Ingredients

• Get ready to prepare a delightful taco feast with these key ingredients!

For the Tacos

Flour Tortillas – Fajita-sized tortillas are perfect for wrapping all the delicious fillings.
Crispy Fried Onions – These add an extra crunch; fresh diced onions can be a tasty alternative.
Iceberg Lettuce – Brings a refreshing crunch; romaine works well for added nutrition.
Cheddar Cheese – Offers a creamy flavor; opt for Monterey Jack if you prefer something milder.
Bacon – Smoky and rich, or choose turkey bacon for a lighter twist.

For the Chicken

Chicken Tenderloins – The star of the dish, coated and fried until crispy; breasts or thighs can substitute nicely.
Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken; a milk and vinegar mixture works well too.
Flour – Essential for creating that crunchy coating; you can use gluten-free flour if needed.
Baking Powder – Keeps the coating light and airy, crucial for the perfect texture.

For the Seasoning

Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Smoked Paprika – Elevates flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.
Cooking Oil – Needed for frying; vegetable oil or any high smoke point oil is ideal.

For the Dressing

Ranch Dressing – Adds the creamy, tangy goodness that complements the dish; make your own, or grab a bottle from the store!

With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create your delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos for a family feast!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by marinating 1 pound of chicken tenderloins in 1 cup of buttermilk for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator. This step ensures the chicken becomes tender and flavorful. Once marinated, remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let it drip off excess liquid as you prepare to coat it.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, add 6 slices of bacon, cooking over medium heat until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the skillet to use for frying the chicken, which will add extra flavor to your Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos.

Step 3: Prepare the Flour Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Whisk the ingredients together until evenly blended. This seasoned flour will create a deliciously crunchy coating for the chicken once you start frying.

Step 4: Heat the Oil
With the reserved bacon grease still in the skillet, add enough cooking oil (about 1–2 inches deep) to heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature, as this ensures the chicken fries perfectly. Once the oil is hot, you’ll be ready to fry the chicken tenders to a beautiful golden brown.

Step 5: Dredge and Fry the Chicken
Take each marinated chicken tender and dredge it in the flour mixture, coating it evenly. Carefully place the dredged chicken into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a cooling rack to maintain its crispiness.

Step 6: Cut the Chicken
Once the fried chicken has cooled slightly, cut it into 1-inch chunks to create bite-sized pieces that are perfect for your tacos. This allows for easy assembly and ensures every bite of your Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos is loaded with flavor and texture.

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos
To assemble your Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos, start with a flour tortilla as the base. Add a layer of crisp iceberg lettuce and a handful of shredded cheddar cheese. Next, place the chunks of fried chicken on top and drizzle generously with ranch dressing. Don’t forget to crumble the crispy bacon over the top and sprinkle with crispy fried onions for an extra crunch.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos Variations

Get creative with these Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos and embark on a delightful flavor journey tailored just for you!

Grilled Chicken: Swap out fried chicken tenders for grilled chicken breast for a lighter, smoky finish that pairs beautifully with the ranch dressing.
Turkey Bacon: Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. The taste remains rich, while your tacos stay guilt-free.
Beefy Twist: Replace chicken with ground beef or shredded beef for a hearty variation. Add spices to the beef to create a flavor explosion that everyone will enjoy.
Spicy Kick: Drizzle some spicy sriracha or your favorite hot sauce alongside the ranch dressing. This adds a fiery punch that will awaken your taste buds.
Veggie Delight: Keep it meat-free by replacing chicken with a medley of sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a fresh, colorful taco experience.
BBQ Flavor: Swap ranch for BBQ sauce to give a sweet, tangy twist! Pair this with grilled chicken and crispy onions for a unique take inspired by classic BBQ flavors.
Add Crunch: Use a combination of crispy fried onions and fresh diced jalapeños for an extra layer of crunch and a hint of heat that brings your tacos to life.

For even more delicious ideas, consider trying these inspiring recipes: Garlic Chicken Thighs, or if you’re feeling adventurous, how about some Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps? Let your culinary creativity shine as you customize these tacos to reflect your family’s flavor preferences!

What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos

Imagine a vibrant taco night filled with tantalizing flavors and satisfying textures that your whole family will love.

Cool Ranch Tortilla Chips: These crispy chips echo the ranch flavor, making them the perfect crunchy companion to your tacos.
Fresh Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette elevates the meal, balancing the rich flavors of the tacos.
Spicy Roasted Corn: Sweet corn with a hint of spice adds a delightful contrast that enhances the overall flavor experience.
Creamy Coleslaw: This cool, creamy side brings a refreshing crunch that complements the crispy chicken and smoky bacon perfectly.
Pickled Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a kick, these tangy slices of jalapeño spice up your tacos and add an extra layer of flavor.
Guacamole: Creamy and rich, this pairing provides a luscious texture that pairs beautifully against the crunchy elements of the tacos.
Margaritas: A zesty margarita adds a festive touch and vibrant flavor that pairs nicely with the savory, delicious tacos.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm cookies that will bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

Expert Tips for Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos

Proper Marination: Ensure chicken is marinated for a minimum of 30 minutes; longer marinating makes the chicken more tender and flavorful, elevating your Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos.
Heating the Oil: Test the oil temperature with a small piece of chicken before frying the entire batch. This avoids greasy results and ensures a crispy finish.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry chicken in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Overcrowding will lead to uneven cooking and less crispy chicken for your tacos.
Cooling Rack Use: After frying, place chicken on a cooling rack rather than paper towels. This keeps the chicken crispy by allowing air to circulate underneath.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different sauces like BBQ or buffalo sauce for your Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos, ensuring you can customize flavors to suit your family’s preferences.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy deliciousness with less stress! You can marinate the chicken tenderloins in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor and tenderness. For a quick weeknight dinner, cook the bacon and prepare the seasoned flour mixture up to 3 days ahead; store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry the marinated chicken, cut it into chunks, and assemble your tacos with fresh toppings. This method ensures that your tacos remain just as delicious, saving you precious time while still delivering all the crispy, creamy delights that make Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos irresistible!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos

Fridge: Keep leftover tacos or components in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Store ingredients separately to maintain optimal texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze fried chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. They can keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen chicken pieces at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Reassemble your Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos fresh with toppings.

Meal Prep: If making in advance, prepare the cooked chicken and ranch dressing and store separately in the fridge for up to 1 week for quick taco assembly!

Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for these tacos?
Absolutely! While chicken tenderloins are recommended for their tenderness and flavor, you can easily substitute them with chicken breasts or thighs. Just remember that thighs may take a bit longer to cook through, so adjust frying time accordingly.

How should I store leftover Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos?
To keep your tacos fresh, I recommend storing any leftovers or components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. This way, the tortillas won’t get soggy, and you can enjoy the crispiest chicken, bacon, and toppings!

Can I freeze the fried chicken for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze your fried chicken, place the cooled pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they will last for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes to re-crisp.

What if my chicken isn’t crispy after frying?
Very! If your chicken turns out greasy or not crispy, it could be that the oil wasn’t hot enough. Make sure to preheat your oil to 350°F (175°C) before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature. Fry in small batches for the best results!

Can I make these tacos gluten-free?
Certainly! For gluten-free Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos, simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the coating. You can also ensure that your tortillas are gluten-free, as many brands offer that option now. Enjoy without worry!

Are there any allergies I should be aware of?
Definitely! These tacos contain common allergens such as gluten from the flour and dairy from the cheese and ranch dressing. If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute these ingredients with allergen-friendly alternatives, like dairy-free cheese or gluten-free flour. Always double-check labels to keep your meal safe!