Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, perfectly seasoned chicken nuggets enveloped in a crispy, golden coating that’s entirely gluten-free. Yes, you heard that right. Our Taco Bell Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets recipe captures the essence and spice of Taco Bell’s famous chicken nuggets, reimagined for the gluten-free diet without any compromise on the flavor that makes your taste buds dance.
Table of Contents
How to make Taco Bell Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets
Taco Bell Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets are a menu item that offers a gluten-free option for customers looking for a snack or meal with chicken. These nuggets are made from tender chicken breast meat, which is battered and then fried.
Ingredients:
Chicken Nuggets:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Gluten-Free Breading:
- 1 cup gluten-free flour blend
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cornflakes
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil or another oil with a high smoke point
Instructions:
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and chili powder. Make sure each piece is evenly coated with the spices.
- Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three separate shallow bowls for the breading process. In the first bowl, place the gluten-free flour and cornstarch and mix well. In the second, beat the eggs. In the third, place the gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat well with the breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is fully coated at each stage of the breading process.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat the oil in a deep fryer or a large pan to approximately 350°F (175°C). Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain the Chicken: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the chicken from the oil and set them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Enjoy your gluten-free Taco Bell-style chicken nuggets hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauce or atop a fresh salad.
Tips:
- Ensure Gluten-Free Ingredients: To avoid cross-contamination, double-check that all the ingredients you use, including the spices and the breadcrumbs, are certified gluten-free.
- Uniform-sized Pieces: Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces to ensure they all cook at the same rate.
- Crowding: Avoid overcrowding the nuggets while frying, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy nuggets.
- Oven-Baking Alternative: For a healthier alternative, you can bake the breaded chicken nuggets in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until they’re golden brown and crisp.
- Internal Temperature: The chicken nuggets should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Leftovers: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain the crispness.
What to serve with
The perfect sides and accompaniments can turn your Taco Bell gluten-free chicken nuggets into a satisfying meal.
Dipping Sauces:
Give your Taco Bell Gluten-Free Chicken Nuggets an extra kick with some flavorful dipping sauces. Here are a few crowd-pleasers:
- Avocado Crema: Blend ripe avocados with sour cream, lime juice, and cilantro for a creamy and tangy dip.
- Spicy Chipotle Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce; add a squeeze of lime for extra zest.
- Classic Salsa: Opt for a fresh, zesty salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, cilantro, and lime juice.
- Ranch Dressing: A creamy ranch dressing can be made gluten-free and goes wonderfully with the spices in the chicken.
Vegetables:
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with a light, vinegar-based dressing complements the nuggets without overwhelming their flavor.
- Carrot and Celery Sticks: These classic crudites contrast the crispy chicken with a crunchy, refreshing contrast.
- Corn on the Cob: Serve grilled or boiled corn seasoned with butter, salt, and chili powder for a touch of spice.
Starches:
- Gluten-Free Tortilla Chips: These are great for scooping up any leftover dips.
- Rice: Simple cilantro lime rice can be a refreshing and light side dish that balances out the meal.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Bake sweet potato strips until crispy for a sweet and savory snack that pairs well with any dipping sauce.
Salads:
- Mexican Bean Salad: A colorful salad with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, avocado, and a lime vinaigrette.
- Fresh Green Salad: Toss mixed greens with a light dressing, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a healthful side.
Beverages:
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: Keep drinks simple and refreshing—homemade lemonade or iced tea can cleanse the palate and refresh your guests.
- Margaritas or Mojitos: A cool, refreshing cocktail can create a more festive atmosphere for adult diners.
Desserts:
- Fruit Popsicles: Conclude your meal with a light and naturally gluten-free dessert, such as fruit popsicles that offer a refreshing finish.
- Rice Pudding: A creamy rice pudding, flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, can be a delicious gluten-free dessert option.
Ingredients Substitutes
When making Taco Bell gluten-free chicken nuggets at home, it’s important to substitute ingredients that typically contain gluten with gluten-free alternatives without compromising on flavor or texture.
Gluten-Free Breading:
Instead of traditional wheat-based flour or breadcrumbs, use these alternatives:
- Almond flour: It gives a nutty flavour and helps create a crunchy exterior.
- Coconut Flour: Another alternative that provides a slight sweetness and crisp texture.
- Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: Many brands are available that can be used as a direct substitute for wheat flour.
- Cornmeal or Cornstarch: Adds crispness to the breading.
- Crushed Gluten-Free Rice Cereal: Process in a blender until fine for a texture similar to breadcrumbs.
- Ground Flaxseed: This can be mixed with the flours for additional nutrition and binding.
Batter:
To make a gluten-free batter for the chicken, replace any flour called for with a gluten-free option and ensure any additional ingredients are gluten-free:
- Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: Use as a base for your batter.
- Gluten-Free Beer: If the recipe calls for beer to create a beer batter, use a gluten-free variant.
- Soda Water: For lightness and crispiness in the batter without gluten.
Seasonings:
Always check the labels of seasonings to ensure there are no gluten-containing additives.
- Taco Seasoning: Many packaged taco seasonings contain gluten as a filler. Opt for a gluten-free labeled seasoning or make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, and oregano.
- Salt and Pepper: Naturally gluten-free and essential for flavor.
Marinade:
If marinating the chicken before breading, use gluten-free ingredients:
- Soy Sauce: Soy sauce commonly contains wheat; use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead.
- Buttermilk: If buttermilk is called for, it’s naturally gluten-free. However, if you’re making a dairy-free version, you can use a dairy-free milk with a squeeze of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the acidity.
Binding Agents:
To help the breading adhere to the chicken, use gluten-free options:
- Eggs: Eggs are naturally gluten-free and work as an excellent binder.
- Buttermilk: As mentioned, buttermilk can also help bind the breading to the chicken.
Cooking Oil:
- Ensure the cooking oil is suitable for a gluten-free diet. Most pure oils, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, are naturally gluten-free. If you are not using fresh oil, double-check that it hasn’t been cross-contaminated or used to fry gluten-containing foods.
Final Thoughts
Combining these sides and dips with your homemade Taco Bell gluten-free chicken nuggets creates a flavorful, varied meal that should keep all your diners happy and satisfied.
More Taco Bell Recipes:
- Copycat Taco Bell Sauce Recipe
- Copycat Taco Bell Seasoning Recipe
- Taco Bell Chicken Nuggets Sauce Recipe
- Homemade Taco Bell Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Ingredients
Chicken Nuggets:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Gluten-Free Breading:
- 1 cup gluten-free flour blend
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cornflakes
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil or another oil with a high smoke point
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and chili powder. Make sure each piece is evenly coated with the spices.
- Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three separate shallow bowls for the breading process. In the first bowl, place the gluten-free flour and cornstarch and mix well. In the second, beat the eggs. In the third, place the gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat well with the breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is fully coated at each stage of the breading process.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat the oil in a deep fryer or a large pan to approximately 350°F (175°C). Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain the Chicken: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the chicken from the oil and set them onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve: Enjoy your gluten-free Taco Bell-style chicken nuggets hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauce or atop a fresh salad.