Chicken Big Mac Taco

Name: How to Make the Best Chicken Big Mac Taco: 7 Delicious Tips
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins (tendons removed, sliced for even cooking); 2 cups all-purpose flour (divided use); 1 tsp salt; 2 tsp paprika; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 large egg; 0.5 cup milk; 0.5 cup chicken broth (low-sodium); 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying); 0.5 cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp grated yellow onion (with juices); 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish; 2 tsp yellow mustard; 0.5 tsp white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar); 0.5 tsp paprika; 0.5 tsp onion powder; 0.25 tsp sea salt; 0.25 tsp garlic powder; 8 flour tortillas; 8 slices American cheese; 0.5 head iceberg lettuce (shredded); 24 slices dill pickles (about 3 per taco)

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By: Maria
Posted: 05/30/2025

If you’re looking for a perfect fusion of fast food favorites with a twist, then this Chicken Big Mac Taco recipe is just what you need. Combining crispy chicken with layers of flavor-packed ingredients, it’s an exciting spin on a cherished classic that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.

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Growing up, my family had a special knack for combining dishes in whimsical ways. The first time I tasted a chicken taco with a Big Mac-style sauce was during a family reunion. My uncle, known for his culinary creativity, dared to mix his love for Mexican cuisine with a dash of Americana. Ever since that memorable summer afternoon, this delightful dish has been a favorite at our family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This incredible Chicken Big Mac Taco is packed with flavor and perfect for anyone seeking something different from their usual taco night. It’s an easy-to-make dish that combines the satisfying crunch of chicken with the creamy richness of special sauce. Additionally, it’s a wonderful way to surprise guests at your next get-together, offering something both familiar and refreshingly new.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You’ll need seasoned chicken strips, taco shells, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and a simple homemade Big Mac sauce. You can source these ingredients from your local grocery store, or if you’re looking for something unique, your local farmer’s market is a great place to explore. Feel free to substitute regular cheese with a dairy-free alternative if needed.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Prepare the chicken by slicing it into strips. Season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. Fry them in a pan until they’re golden brown and crispy.

Step 2

In the meantime, make the special sauce by mixing mayonnaise, mustard, and a dash of white vinegar. Add finely chopped pickles and onion for a true Big Mac taste.

Step 3

Warm up your taco shells in the oven for a few minutes until they’re slightly crispy.

Step 4

To assemble, start with a layer of special sauce at the base of each taco shell, followed by lettuce and a few strips of chicken. Top with shredded cheese and extra pickles.

Step 5

Drizzle a bit more sauce on top and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Storage Options

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm the chicken separately and fill fresh taco shells to retain their crunch. You can also freeze the cooked chicken strips for up to a month, making your next Taco Tuesday even simpler.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to switch things up? Use a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick, or swap out chicken for a plant-based protein for a vegetarian-friendly option. For a citrusy twist, add a hint of lime to the sauce, which pairs beautifully with cilantro-laced taco shells.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is perfect for casual dinners or summer barbecues. Serve with a fresh avocado salad or spicy jalapeno cornbread on the side. It’s also fantastic paired with an ice-cold soda or your favorite beer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought sauce? Absolutely! While homemade sauce offers the freshest flavor, you can use store-bought Big Mac sauce or another favorite condiment in a pinch.

What type of cheese is best? A mild cheddar or American cheese emulates that classic fast-food taste. However, feel free to experiment with smoked gouda or pepper jack for a bolder flavor.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Simply swap out the regular taco shells for gluten-free corn tortillas. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free, and you’re good to go!

This Chicken Big Mac Taco recipe combines cherished flavors with a touch of innovation, offering a delightful culinary experience that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I assemble the Chicken Big Mac Tacos ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble the tacos just before serving to maintain the crispiness of the chicken and taco shells. However, you can prepare the chicken strips, Big Mac sauce, and chop the lettuce and pickles up to a day in advance. Store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Warm the chicken and assemble the tacos right before serving for the best results.

What are some good ingredient substitutions for the Chicken Big Mac Taco recipe?

You can easily swap the chicken for plant-based chicken strips for a vegetarian option. For the cheese, mild cheddar or American cheese works best, but feel free to experiment with smoked gouda or pepper jack. If you don’t have white vinegar, apple cider vinegar can be used in the Big Mac sauce, although the flavor will be slightly different. For a spicier kick, use sriracha mayo.

How do I know when the chicken strips are perfectly cooked?

The chicken strips are perfectly cooked when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) if you’re using a meat thermometer. The texture should be firm to the touch, and the chicken should be cooked through.

Can I double or triple this Chicken Big Mac Taco recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily scale this recipe up. Double or triple the ingredient quantities proportionally. You may need to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Ensure you have enough taco shells and serving space to accommodate the increased yield.

What are the nutritional highlights of this Chicken Big Mac Taco recipe?

This recipe provides protein from the chicken, which is essential for muscle building and repair. The lettuce adds vitamins and fiber. The cheese contributes calcium and fat. Consider using whole wheat taco shells for added fiber.

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How to Make the Best Chicken Big Mac Taco: 7 Delicious Tips

Experience a twist on your favorite fast-food sandwich with these Chicken Big Mac Tacos! Crispy chicken and creamy sauce in cheesy tortillas make for a delightful treat.

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins tendons removed, sliced for even cooking
2 cups all-purpose flour divided use
1 tsp salt
2 tsp paprika
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp black pepper
1 large egg
0.5 cup milk
0.5 cup chicken broth low-sodium
1 tbsp olive oil for frying
0.5 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp grated yellow onion with juices
2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
2 tsp yellow mustard
0.5 tsp white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
0.5 tsp paprika
0.5 tsp onion powder
0.25 tsp sea salt
0.25 tsp garlic powder
8 flour tortillas
8 slices American cheese
0.5 head iceberg lettuce shredded
24 slices dill pickles about 3 per taco

Instructions

Preparation Steps

In a bowl, mix all ingredients for the sauce. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Prepare a dry mix with 1 ½ cups of flour and spices. Prepare a wet batter with remaining ingredients.
Coat chicken in wet batter then dry mix. Heat oil to 350°F and fry.
Heat tortillas in a skillet, add cheese, and melt.
Assemble tacos: sauce, chicken, pickles, lettuce, and more sauce.