Ultimate Crispy Chicken Chalupa
Indulge in the irresistible Ultimate Crispy Chicken Chalupa, where the classic taco gets a thrilling twist! This culinary delight features a succulent golden-fried chicken shell cradling a vibrant mixture of fresh vegetables and a creamy avocado ranch sauce, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply craving a satisfying meal, these homemade chalupas are sure to impress. Experience the fusion of crispy, juicy, and creamy as you take each bite of this deliciously innovative dish. Perfect for taco night or any time you want to elevate your dining experience!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
27
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ranch dressing mix
1 (1 ounce envelope, such as Hidden Valley Ranch)
Sour cream
3/4 (cup)
Avocado
1 (small, pitted and diced)
Tomatoes
4 (seeded and chopped)
Iceberg lettuce
1 (head, shredded)
Cheddar cheese
3 (cups shredded)
Ground chicken
2 (lbs, white meat)
All-purpose flour
2/3 (cup, plus more for rolling)
Cornstarch
1/2 (cup)
Kosher salt
2 (teaspoons)
Granulated sugar
1 (teaspoon)
White vinegar
1 (teaspoon)
Accent seasoning
1/2 (teaspoon)
Garlic powder
1/2 (teaspoon)
Onion powder
1/2 (teaspoon)
Cooking spray
1 (6 ounce can)
Buttermilk
1/4 (cup)
Eggs
2 (large)
All-purpose flour
2 (cups)
Unseasoned breadcrumbs
1 (cup)
Kosher salt
1 (teaspoon)
Baking powder
2 1/2 (teaspoons)
Baking soda
1/2 (teaspoon)
Garlic powder
1/8 (teaspoon)
Onion powder
1/8 (teaspoon)
Sweet paprika
1/8 (teaspoon)
Vegetable oil
6 (cups, for frying)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Ultimate Crispy Chicken Chalupa?
It is a fusion dish featuring a succulent golden-fried chicken shell filled with fresh vegetables and creamy avocado ranch sauce.
What meat is used for the chicken shell?
The recipe calls for 2 lbs of white meat ground chicken to form the chalupa shells.
What is the base of the avocado ranch sauce?
The sauce is made with sour cream, ranch dressing mix, and a small pitted and diced avocado.
What vegetables are used as toppings?
Fresh seeded and chopped tomatoes and a head of shredded iceberg lettuce are used as the primary toppings.
What kind of cheese is recommended for this recipe?
Three cups of shredded cheddar cheese are recommended for topping the chalupas.
Is the chicken shell fried?
Yes, the chicken shells are fried in 6 cups of vegetable oil to achieve a crispy texture.
Is this a copycat recipe?
Yes, this is a copycat recipe designed to emulate popular fast-food chicken chalupas at home.
Does the recipe use cornstarch?
Yes, 1/2 cup of cornstarch is included in the mixture to help the chicken shell hold its shape and become crispy.
Is vinegar an ingredient in the chicken mixture?
Yes, one teaspoon of white vinegar is added to the ground chicken mixture.
What seasonings are used for the chicken shell?
The shells are seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and Accent seasoning.
Are there eggs in the recipe?
Yes, two large eggs are used in the breading or binding process.
What kind of breadcrumbs are best?
The recipe specifies using one cup of unseasoned breadcrumbs for the coating.
Does the recipe include baking powder?
Yes, 2.5 teaspoons of baking powder are used in the flour mixture.
Is buttermilk included in the recipe?
Yes, 1/4 cup of buttermilk is used as part of the preparation for the chicken shells.
How many tomatoes are needed?
You will need four tomatoes, which should be seeded and chopped.
What type of lettuce is used?
One head of shredded iceberg lettuce provides the classic crunch for these chalupas.
Is there sugar in the chicken mixture?
Yes, one teaspoon of granulated sugar is added to the seasoning mix.
What is the purpose of Accent seasoning in this recipe?
Accent seasoning is used as a flavor enhancer to bring out the savory notes of the chicken.
How much oil is needed for frying?
The recipe requires approximately 6 cups of vegetable oil for frying the shells.
What kind of salt is recommended?
Kosher salt is specified for both the chicken mixture and the flour coating.
What is the specific ranch dressing mix used?
A 1-ounce envelope of ranch dressing mix, such as Hidden Valley Ranch, is required.
How should the avocado be prepared for the sauce?
The avocado should be small, pitted, and diced before being mixed into the sauce.
Is paprika used in the breading?
Yes, 1/8 teaspoon of sweet paprika is added to the flour and breadcrumb mixture.
Does the recipe use baking soda?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda is included in the dry ingredients.
What categories does this recipe fall under?
It is categorized as Mexican cuisine, comfort food, and a copycat recipe.
Is cooking spray needed?
Yes, a 6-ounce can of cooking spray is listed in the ingredients, likely for preventing sticking during preparation.
How much flour is required in total?
The recipe uses 2/3 cup for the initial mixture and an additional 2 cups for the breading phase.
Can I use different types of chicken?
The recipe specifically calls for ground chicken white meat to ensure the right texture for the shell.
Is this recipe suitable for a party?
Yes, it is described as a great option for hosting gatherings or taco nights.
What makes the chalupa 'Ultimate'?
The 'Ultimate' designation comes from the innovative crispy chicken shell paired with a rich, homemade avocado ranch.