Homemade Taco Bell Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Taco Bell, a beacon for those who crave the bold and the unconventional, has tossed yet another curveball our way. Ladies, gentlemen, and everyone in between, brace yourselves for a gustatory journey like no other – the introduction of Taco Bell Chicken Nuggets. Before we go into the intricate dance of flavors that makes up this tantalizing recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the audacity. Taco Bell, the brand that has tirelessly redefined our taco and burrito expectations, is now venturing into the sacred realm of chicken nuggets. But, as you might expect from a company that delights in the deliciously unexpected, these aren’t just any chicken nuggets. They’re a crispy, zesty testament to Taco Bell’s commitment to culinary creativity.

How to make Taco Bell Chicken Nuggets

Taco Bell Chicken Nuggets are a menu item featuring bite-sized pieces of crispy, breaded chicken. These nuggets are typically served with dipping sauces, such as the brand’s signature Honey BBQ or Creamy Jalapeño. The chicken is seasoned for flavor and deep-fried to achieve a crispy exterior while remaining tender and juicy.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Nuggets:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons of milk

For the Coating:

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of crushed tortilla chips
• 1 tablespoon of Taco Bell seasoning mix (available in stores or a homemade mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a bit of cayenne for heat)
• Canola oil for frying

For the Dipping Sauce:

• For that extra kick, you can choose from Taco Bell sauce (Fire, Hot, Mild) or ranch dressing mixed with some Taco Bell sauce.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into nugget-sized pieces. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
2. Make the Egg Wash: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
3. Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, crushed tortilla chips, and Taco Bell seasoning mix.
4. Dredge the Chicken: Dip each seasoned chicken piece into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and back into the flour mixture again. Ensure the pieces are well-coated for that signature crispiness.
5. Fry the Nuggets: Heat canola oil in a deep fryer or a deep pan to 375°F (190°C). Fry the chicken pieces in batches, carefully not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a digital thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Drain and Serve: Remove the nuggets from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.

Tips for Making Taco Bell Chicken Nuggets:

• Double the Crunch: For a crunchy exterior, double breading your nuggets by dipping them twice in the egg wash and flour mixture.
• Keep it Uniform: Try to cut your chicken pieces into even sizes. This ensures they cook uniformly and finish at the same time.
• Season Your Flour: Don’t forget to season your flour mixture well. You can infuse the nuggets with that signature Taco Bell flavor.
• Fry in Batches: Overcrowding the pan can lead to a drop in oil temperature, resulting in soggy nuggets. Frying in small batches maintains the oil temperature, ensuring your nuggets are perfectly crispy.
• Explore Dipping Sauces: While traditional Taco Bell sauces are a great choice, feel free to get creative. A homemade creamy cilantro sauce or spicy mayo can also wonderfully complement these nuggets.

What to serve with

When deciding what to serve with Taco Bell Chicken Nuggets, the goal is to create a complementary spread that enhances the flavor of the nuggets and evokes that beloved fast-food vibe.

Sides:

• Mexican Rice: A flavorful side that’s typically seasoned with tomato, garlic, and onions to deliver a comforting balance to the zesty Taco Bell Chicken Nuggets.
• Refried Beans: Creamy and satisfying, refried beans are an excellent dip or side dish, adding a layer of richness to your meal.
• Corn on the Cob: Give it a Mexican twist with some lime juice, butter, chili powder, and Cotija cheese, often referred to as “elote.”
• Salad: To offset the richness of the fried nuggets, opt for a fresh, zesty salad with ingredients like black beans, corn, tomatoes, avocado, and a lime vinaigrette.

Dips:

• Guacamole: Freshly made guac is a staple in Mexican cuisine, and its creamy texture perfectly complements the crunchiness of chicken nuggets.
• Salsa: Whether you prefer pico de gallo, salsa verde, or a chunky roasted salsa, the acidic and spicy notes can add a nice contrast to the dish.
• Sour Cream or Crema: A dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema can cool down the spices and add a tangy component to your plate.
• Nacho Cheese Sauce: For a more indulgent meal, a warm, melty cheese sauce can be a heavenly dip for your chicken nuggets.

Beverages:

• Margaritas: A classic margarita on the rocks or frozen can complement the flavors of your meal and add a festive touch.
• Mexican Beer: A light, crisp lager or a flavorful Mexican beer can pair well with the spices and provide refreshment.
• Agua Fresca: A refreshing fresh fruit beverage blended with water, sugar, and lime, such as agua de horchata or agua de jamaica.

Desserts:

• Churros: Conclude your meal with churros dipped in a chocolate sauce or dusted with cinnamon sugar for a sweet crunch.
• Sopapillas: These pillowy, fried pastries dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with honey can be a delightful endnote after a savory meal.

Ingredients Substitutes

For the Crispy Chicken:

• Chicken: If you prefer darker meat with more flavor and moisture, substitute boneless skinless chicken breast for chicken thighs. Use a meat mallet to pound the thighs to an even thickness that matches the usual size of a nugget.
• Flour: Replace regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or chickpea flour for a gluten-free alternative with added protein and fiber.
• Breadcrumbs: For a lower-carb option, grind up pork rinds or parmesan cheese for a crust. Alternatively, you can use crushed-up corn chips or taco shells for a more Taco Bell-inspired flavor.
• Eggs: To bind the breading without eggs, you can use buttermilk or plain yogurt; vegan alternatives include aquafaba or a flaxseed meal mixed with water.
• Seasoning: For convenience, replace individual spices with premixed taco seasoning. You can make your blend by mixing chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, and salt.

For Frying:

• Oil: Instead of deep-frying, you can bake the chicken in the oven at a high temperature until crispy or use an air fryer to make it healthier.

For the Marinade:

• Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, combine milk with a tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
• Mexican Spices: As stated before, use a taco seasoning blend or a combination of cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.

For the Coating:

• Flour and Breadcrumbs: For a grain-free diet, use almond flour and crush pork rinds. For a vegan coating, consider seasoned tempura batter made with plant-based milk.

For Sauces and Toppings:

• Creamy Jalapeño Sauce: If you can’t find specific ingredients like pickled jalapeños, use a mixture of mayonnaise, sriracha (or another hot sauce), and a squeeze of lime juice for a simple, spicy, and creamy sauce.
• Sour Cream: For a non-dairy alternative, blend soaked cashews with lemon juice, vinegar, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Final Thoughts

By following these steps and tips, you can bring a taste of Taco Bell into your kitchen. Experiment with seasoning levels and dipping sauces to personalize the recipe and make it your own. Enjoy crafting these homemade Taco Bell Chicken Nuggets that promise a delightful crunch and a burst of flavors.

More Recipes:

• Copycat Burger King Melts Recipe

Taco Bell Chicken Nuggets

Serves: 4 Prep Time: 20 Minutes Cooking Time: 10 Minutes 10 Minutes

Nutrition facts: 296 calories 20 grams fat

Rating: 4.5/5

( 4 voted )

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Nuggets:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons of milk

For the Coating:

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of crushed tortilla chips
• 1 tablespoon of Taco Bell seasoning mix
• Canola oil for frying

For the Dipping Sauce:

1. For that extra kick, you can choose from Taco Bell sauce

Instructions

 

1. Prep the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into nugget-sized pieces. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
2. Make the Egg Wash: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
3. Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, crushed tortilla chips, and Taco Bell seasoning mix.
4. Dredge the Chicken: Dip each seasoned chicken piece into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and back into the flour mixture again. Ensure the pieces are well-coated for that signature crispiness.
5. Fry the Nuggets: Heat canola oil in a deep fryer or a deep pan to 375°F (190°C). Fry the chicken pieces in batches, carefully not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a digital thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Drain and Serve: Remove the nuggets from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.