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Easy Crispy BBQ Ranch Chicken Tacos

crispy bbq ranch chicken tacos - featured image

These tacos combine crispy chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and creamy ranch dressing for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. Perfectly balanced flavors and textures make them a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup smoky BBQ sauce
  • 1/3 cup ranch dressing
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • Vegetable or canola oil, about 1/2 inch for frying
  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas
  • Optional toppings: sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, pickled jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Cut chicken into 1 to 1.5 inch bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly.
  4. Dip each chicken piece into the egg wash, then dredge in the flour mixture, pressing gently to coat well.
  5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Fry chicken pieces in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Drain on paper towels or wire rack.
  7. Toss the crispy chicken gently with BBQ sauce until coated but not drenched.
  8. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or oven until soft and pliable.
  9. Divide BBQ ranch chicken among tortillas and drizzle each with about 1 tablespoon ranch dressing.
  10. Add optional toppings as desired and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat chicken dry for better crispiness. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Use a thermometer to keep oil at 350°F. Toss chicken gently with BBQ sauce to avoid sogginess. Warm tortillas just before assembling to keep them flexible.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken tacos, crispy chicken, ranch dressing, weeknight dinner, easy tacos, fried chicken tacos