Taco Bell Chicken Chalupa Recipe

There’s nothing like enjoying a homemade version of your restaurant favorites…

…and I’m telling you, you’re going to love this Taco Bell Chicken Chalupa recipe!

One tip to achieve that authentic chalupa texture is to fry the shells until they’re golden brown and crispy.

It’s amazing how the combination of flavors and textures comes together, making each bite a delight.

The best part? You can customize the topping to suit your preference, whether that means adding extra cheese or a bit more spice.

How to Make Taco Bell Chicken Chalupa

Ingredients

• 2 cups Flour
• 1 tsp Baking Powder
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 2 tbsp Shortening
• 3/4 cup Milk
• 1 lb Chicken Breast (cooked and shredded)
• 1/2 cup Sour Cream
• 1/2 cup Lettuce (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Tomatoes (diced)
• 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Add shortening.

Step 2:

Gradually add milk, mixing until the dough forms.

Step 3:

Knead dough for a few minutes, then divide into eight pieces.

Step 4:

Roll each piece into a circle. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet.

Step 5:

Fry each dough circle in the oil until golden. Fold into a taco shape.

Step 6:

Fill each chalupa with chicken, sour cream, lettuce, cheese, and tomatoes.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Dough Consistency

Make sure the dough is soft but not sticky. It should feel smooth and elastic to the touch for best results.

Frying Temperature

Maintain medium heat while frying to avoid burning. The dough should fry evenly to achieve a crispy, golden texture.

Chicken Flavor

You can marinate the chicken with your favorite spices or taco seasoning beforehand for more depth of flavor. It adds a nice touch.

Shell Folding

Use tongs to fold the shells while frying. Doing so will prevent burns and help maintain the proper shape!

What to Serve with Chicken Chalupa

Your chicken chalupa can be paired beautifully with a variety of dishes that enhance the flavors and offer a delightful dining experience.

Classic Spanish Rice

A serving of Spanish rice, with its vibrant reddish hue and savory flavors, complements the creamy and spicy notes of your chalupa perfectly.

The rice’s subtle spice and tomato undertones are a classic match made in heaven.

Black Bean Soup

Rich and hearty, black bean soup provides a comforting contrast to the crispy texture of the chalupa shell.

The creamy beans and warm spices are a treat for you alongside the chalupa’s flavors.

Southwest Quinoa Salad

A refreshing twist comes with a colorful Southwest quinoa salad.

Packed with veggies like corn, bell peppers, and a hint of lime, this salad adds a crisp texture that pairs effortlessly with the chalupa.

Grilled Veggies with Lime

Consider a vibrant platter of grilled veggies drizzled with a touch of lime juice.

The smoky flavors from the grill meld wonderfully with your chicken chalupa.

Garlic Roasted Potatoes

Garlic roasted potatoes add a satisfying crunch and a bit of earthiness to your meal.

They’re particularly delightful when seasoned with a dash of paprika or chili powder.

Mango Salsa

Sweet yet tangy, mango salsa provides a refreshing burst of flavor that pairs seamlessly with the spices in the chalupa.

The sweetness of the mango highlights the savory notes in your dish.

Variations and Substitutions

There are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this chicken chalupa recipe and make it unique.

Shell Variations

You can use whole wheat flour for a heartier shell, or add spices like paprika or cumin to the dough for a kick.

Using cornmeal instead of flour creates a crunchy texture that many enjoy.

Protein Alternatives

Ground beef, turkey, or even seasoned tofu can be delicious substitutes for chicken.

Mixing different proteins is another exciting way to add complexity to each bite.

Dairy-Free Options

Swap out the cheese with a dairy-free alternative, and use vegan sour cream or mashed avocado for a creamy topping.

These swaps will still make the chalupa taste fantastic.

Creative Toppings

Try adding sliced jalapeños, pickled onions, or fresh cilantro to give the chalupa an exceptional twist.

Adding hot sauce or salsa for an extra punch of flavor can make a big difference.

Personalize each chalupa with your favorite toppings and enjoy the endless possibilities!

How to Store Leftover Chicken Chalupas

You made fresh Chicken Chalupas, and now it’s time to store those delicious leftovers.

Here’s how you can keep them fresh and tasty!

Refrigerating Your Chalupas

Store your leftover chalupas in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to prevent spoilage.

Wrap each chalupa separately in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess.

Place them in an airtight container for extra protection if space allows.

Freezing the Chalupas

For longer storage, you can freeze your chicken chalupas for future enjoyment.

Wrap each chalupa tightly in foil and place in a resealable freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Remember to label the bags with the date to keep track of their freshness.

How Long They Last

In the refrigerator, your chalupas should be good for about 3-4 days.

If frozen properly, they can last for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Just ensure they are stored consistently at the correct temperatures!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overfrying the Chalupa Shells

You might be tempted to leave the chalupa shells in the oil just a little longer for extra crispiness.

This often results in shells that are too hard and difficult to bite!

Make sure to remove them once they’re golden brown and just slightly crispy.

Using Pre-shredded Cheese

It’s convenient, but pre-shredded cheese can be a bit dry and less flavorful.

Hand-grated cheese melts more smoothly and brings out a richer taste.

Opt for freshly grated cheese to enhance your chalupa experience.

Skipping Rest Time for the Chicken

Skipping the rest time after cooking the chicken can lead to dry pieces.

Letting the chicken rest for about five minutes helps retain those delicious juices.

Don’t rush this step; your taste buds will thank you!