Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos

There’s something magical about the combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch—it’s a trio that never fails to satisfy. As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I’m always on the lookout for ways to elevate classic dishes. That’s how I stumbled upon the idea of Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos. These tacos are the perfect blend of smoky, creamy, and savory flavors, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. They’re quick to make, incredibly delicious, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, these tacos are my go-to recipe. They’re versatile, allowing you to customize them with your favorite toppings, and they come together in under 30 minutes. Trust me, once you try these Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos, they’ll become a regular on your menu. Let’s dive into what you’ll need and how to make them!

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Chicken breast: The star of the show, chicken breast is lean, tender, and perfect for absorbing the flavors of the ranch and bacon. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy preparation and even cooking.

Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon adds a rich, savory depth to these tacos. It’s the ingredient that takes this dish from good to irresistible. Opt for thick-cut bacon for extra texture and flavor.

Ranch seasoning: This is the secret weapon that ties everything together. Ranch seasoning adds a tangy, herby flavor that complements the chicken and bacon beautifully. You can use store-bought or make your own blend at home.

Tortillas: Soft flour tortillas are my choice for this recipe because they’re pliable and hold up well with the fillings. However, you can use corn tortillas if you prefer a gluten-free option.

Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese adds a creamy, melty element that enhances the overall texture and flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Lettuce: Fresh, crisp lettuce adds a refreshing crunch to balance the richness of the chicken, bacon, and cheese. Romaine or iceberg lettuce works best.

Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes bring a juicy, slightly sweet contrast to the savory components of the tacos. Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.

Ranch dressing: A drizzle of creamy ranch dressing on top adds the finishing touch, tying all the flavors together. You can use store-bought or whip up a homemade version.

Ingredients List

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 slices of thick-cut bacon
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning
8 small flour tortillas
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup ranch dressing

How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by cooking the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Crumble or chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with the ranch seasoning on both sides. In the same skillet used for the bacon (leave a bit of the bacon grease for extra flavor), cook the chicken over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

While the chicken is resting, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them pliable. This step ensures your tacos are easy to fold and won’t tear.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

Lay out the warmed tortillas and start assembling. Add a layer of sliced chicken to each tortilla, followed by the crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, lettuce, and diced tomatoes. Drizzle a bit of ranch dressing over the top.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Fold the tortillas in half and serve immediately. These tacos are best enjoyed fresh, while the cheese is still melty and the ingredients are warm.

Tips for Making This Recipe

Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add avocado, jalapeños, or red onions for extra flavor and texture.
Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or use spicy ranch dressing for a kick.
Meal Prep Friendly: Cook the chicken and bacon ahead of time and store them in the fridge for quick assembly during the week.
Use Homemade Ranch: If you have the time, homemade ranch dressing and seasoning can take these tacos to the next level.
Double the Recipe: These tacos are perfect for feeding a crowd, so don’t hesitate to double or triple the ingredients.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add even more juiciness to the tacos.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free tortillas and ensure your ranch seasoning and dressing are gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers?
Store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and bacon before assembling.

Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon is a lighter option and works well in this recipe.

What sides go well with these tacos?
Serve with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a simple corn salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy making and savoring these Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos—they’re sure to become a family favorite!