Ranch Chicken Fiesta Tacos
Elevate your taco night with these delicious Ranch Chicken Fiesta Tacos! Packed with flavorful diced chicken coated in zesty taco seasoning and creamy ranch dressing, these tacos are a delightful combination of taste and texture. Fresh shredded lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and melted cheese provide the perfect toppings, while crunchy taco shells hold everything together. Perfect for family gatherings or a quick weeknight meal, these tacos are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Make and share this vibrant recipe for a fun and satisfying dining experience!
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Old El Paso taco shells
1 (4 2/3 ounces, for taco assembly)
Diced cooked chicken
3 cups ( cooked and diced)
Taco seasoning mix
1 (1 1/4 ounce package)
Ranch dressing
1/2 cup (for mixing with chicken)
Shredded lettuce
1 1/2 cups (for topping)
Tomatoes
1 medium (chopped for topping)
Shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup (or cheese of choice, for topping)
Green onion
1/4 cup (sliced, for topping)
Additional ranch dressing
to taste (for drizzling)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
2
Arrange the Old El Paso taco shells on a baking sheet and heat in the oven according to the package instructions until warm and crispy.
3
In a medium microwavable bowl, combine the diced cooked chicken and taco seasoning mix. Toss gently to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with seasoning.
4
Microwave the chicken mixture uncovered on high for 2 to 3 minutes, or until heated through. Stir in 1/2 cup of ranch dressing until well combined.
5
Once the taco shells are heated, carefully spoon generous amounts of the warm chicken mixture into each taco shell.
6
Top each taco with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions for a fresh crunch.
7
If desired, drizzle additional ranch dressing over the filled tacos to enhance flavor before serving.
8
Enjoy your Ranch Chicken Fiesta Tacos with your friends and family!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ranch Chicken Fiesta Tacos?
Ranch Chicken Fiesta Tacos are a flavorful twist on traditional tacos featuring diced cooked chicken seasoned with taco spices and creamy ranch dressing, served in crispy shells with fresh toppings.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 10 servings.
What temperature should the oven be set to for the taco shells?
The oven should be preheated to 325 degrees Fahrenheit to warm and crisp the shells.
What kind of chicken is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 cups of diced cooked chicken, which can be leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken, or boiled chicken breast.
How long do I microwave the chicken mixture?
Microwave the chicken and seasoning mixture uncovered on high for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
When do I add the ranch dressing to the chicken?
Stir in the 1/2 cup of ranch dressing after the chicken has been heated in the microwave.
What specific taco shells are recommended?
The recipe specifically mentions using one 4 2/3 ounce package of Old El Paso taco shells.
What ingredients are used for the taco toppings?
The recommended toppings are shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions.
Can I add more ranch dressing after assembly?
Yes, the recipe suggests drizzling additional ranch dressing over the filled tacos to enhance the flavor before serving.
Is this recipe considered easy for a weeknight meal?
Yes, because it uses pre-cooked chicken and quick-heating shells, it is perfect for a fast and satisfying weeknight dinner.
What size package of taco seasoning is needed?
You will need one 1 1/4 ounce package of taco seasoning mix.
How much lettuce is required for the toppings?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of shredded lettuce.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While shredded cheddar is recommended, you can use any cheese of your choice, such as a Mexican blend or Monterey Jack.
How many tomatoes are needed for the tacos?
One medium tomato, chopped, is sufficient for topping the tacos.
How much green onion should I prepare?
Prepare 1/4 cup of sliced green onions for the topping.
What category does this recipe belong to?
This recipe is categorized under Chicken dishes.
Can I use soft tortillas instead of hard shells?
Yes, while the recipe specifies crispy shells, you can easily substitute them with soft flour or corn tortillas.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the combination of mild chicken and creamy ranch makes these tacos very popular with children.
How do I ensure the chicken is evenly seasoned?
Toss the chicken gently with the taco seasoning mix in a bowl before microwaving to ensure even coating.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with a plant-based meat alternative or black beans while keeping the seasoning and ranch.
What are some tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include tacos, chicken, ranch, quick meal, family-friendly, easy dinner, Mexican, and Tex-Mex.
Do I need to cook the chicken in this recipe?
The recipe assumes you are starting with chicken that is already cooked and diced.
How do I serve these for a party?
You can set up a taco bar with the warm chicken and shells in the center and the various toppings in bowls for guests to build their own.
What if I don't have a microwave?
You can heat the chicken and seasoning mixture in a skillet over medium heat on the stove until warm.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure your taco seasoning and taco shells are certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat fillers.
Can I use spicy ranch dressing?
Yes, using a spicy or jalapeño ranch is a great way to add an extra kick of heat to the dish.
How much total ranch dressing is used?
You use 1/2 cup for the chicken mixture plus additional ranch to taste for drizzling on top.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the chicken mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store shells and cold toppings separately.
Can I use ground chicken instead of diced chicken?
Yes, ground chicken works well; just ensure it is fully cooked and drained before adding the seasoning and ranch.
What makes these tacos 'Fiesta' style?
The 'Fiesta' style comes from the vibrant mix of fresh vegetable toppings and the zesty, creamy combination of taco spice and ranch.