Oh boy, I’m excited to share this gem of a recipe with you—Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos! I mean, what’s not to love? We’re talking about all the good stuff: tender, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch dressing all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. It’s like a cozy taco hug that your taste buds will thank you for! I first made these tacos during a game night gathering, and let me tell you, they were gone in a flash. Everyone kept saying, “You HAVE to share the recipe!” So here I am, ready to write it down so you too can enjoy this easy, crowd-pleasing delight!
What sets these tacos apart is how effortlessly they come together. I’m all about recipes that make my friends and family think I’m some kind of culinary genius without having to spend hours in the kitchen. With a handful of ingredients and a short assembly time, you’re going to feel like a taco pro. Plus, they’re versatile—feel free to toss in your favorite toppings! So grab some napkins because things are about to get delicious!
What’s in Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos?
- Cooked chicken, shredded: I typically use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time, but any cooked chicken works. You could also use shredded turkey if you have some on hand!
- Ranch dressing: A must for that creamy, zesty flavor! I adore Hidden Valley Ranch, but any homemade or store-bought ranch will do.
- Flour or corn tortillas: Choose whichever you prefer! Flour tortillas tend to be a bit softer, while corn has that delightful crunch. You can also make mini tacos using smaller tortillas!
- Cooked bacon, crumbled: Because bacon makes everything better! I love to use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch. Smoked bacon adds another layer of flavor too!
- Shredded cheddar cheese: The classic taco cheese! You can use mild or sharp cheddar, or even a cheese blend for a twist.
- Lettuce, shredded: Adds freshness and a nice crunch. I usually go for romaine or iceberg; they are perfect for tacos.
- Optional toppings: This is where you can get creative! Sliced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even avocado can elevate these tacos further.
Are Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos Good for You?
Well, let’s not pretend these tacos are a salad! But they do offer some good features. The shredded chicken provides a solid protein source, which helps keep you full longer. And hey, they’re loaded with flavor, which can curb the craving for munchies later on! The ranch dressing is a delightful indulgence, but if you’re looking to lighten it up, consider using a lower-calorie option or yogurt-based dressing.
On the flip side, if you’re watching your sodium intake, be mindful of the bacon and ranch dressing, as they can be a little salty. If that matters to you, try opting for a low-sodium bacon and making your own ranch dressing! Overall, enjoy these tacos as an occasional treat alongside a colorful salad—balance is key!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups lettuce, shredded
- Optional: sliced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or your favorite taco toppings
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos?
- Start by grabbing a mixing bowl and combine the shredded chicken with the ranch dressing. You want to mix it thoroughly until the chicken is completely coated—you can really smell that ranch goodness now!
- While that’s coming together, warm the tortillas. You can do this in a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or just pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until they’re nice and pliable.
- Now, it’s taco assembly time! Take a tortilla and place a generous scoop of the ranch chicken mixture in the center. Don’t be shy; these tacos are meant to be hearty!
- Top the chicken with crumbled bacon, a good handful of shredded cheddar cheese, and a heap of shredded lettuce.
- If you’re feeling festive, add any additional toppings you want, like sliced tomatoes or sliced jalapeños.
- Fold the tortillas in half and serve them immediately. You can keep them warm in a tortilla warmer if you’re serving a crowd!
Tips for Taco Happiness
- These tacos are best fresh, but you can prep the chicken mixture and toppings beforehand to save time.
- If you want some crunch, try toasting the tortillas in a skillet with a little oil until they’re nice and crispy!
- Feel free to get creative with toppings! You can even add a sprinkle of cilantro or a dash of hot sauce if you’re feeling spicy!
I guarantee that these Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos will be a hit with family and friends. They’re so easy to whip up that you can make them for dinner after a busy day or even serve them at your next gathering. And if you do make them, please share your taco pictures and let me know how they turned out! Happy cooking!
