Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos

Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos are a delightful fusion of flavors that make for an exciting dinner option. These tacos bring together tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, this recipe is sure to impress with its smoky twist and satisfying taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of chicken, turkey bacon, and ranch creates a mouthwatering experience that will leave you craving more.
• Versatile Meal: Great for lunch, dinner, or even game day snacks—these tacos fit any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves tacos! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust toppings or add your favorite sides for a personalized meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your taco-making experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Perfect for cooking chicken evenly while adding a nice smoky flavor.
• Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for achieving that crispy texture on the turkey bacon and melting cheese perfectly.
• Mixing Bowl: Keeps your ingredients organized while preparing the ranch dressing.

Ingredients

Chicken, Turkey Turkey Bacon, ranch, and cheesy tacos for a smoky twist on dinner.

For the Chicken

• 8-10 chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp kosher salt
• 2 tbsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp garlic powder
• Buffalo sauce, as needed
• Canola oil, as needed

For the Ranch Sauce

• 2.5 tbsp sour cream
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1.5 tbsp chopped parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped dill
• 1.5 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• Buttermilk to desired consistency
• Salt to taste

For the Tacos

• Flour tortillas
• Shredded jack cheese
• Chopped chives, for garnish
• 4-5 Turkey Turkey Bacon slices

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Ranch Sauce

Add all the ingredients for your ranch to a bowl and mix well. Set aside until you’re ready to use it.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Slather your chicken thighs with canola oil and generously season them with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Place them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Add a cold cast iron skillet to the grill and cook the turkey bacon slices until crispy. Once done, remove them from heat and chop into pieces.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken thighs onto the grill. Cook each side for about 6-8 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 170°F. Baste with buffalo sauce after flipping if desired. Once cooked through, let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.

Step 5: Prepare the Tortillas

Heat your cast iron skillet over medium heat. Place one tortilla in the skillet; cook one side until lightly browned before flipping it over. Add shredded jack cheese on top of the tortilla and fold it in half. Cook both sides until slightly crispy and cheese melts.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Open up each tortilla gently and fill with sliced grilled chicken, crumbled turkey bacon, and ranch sauce. Top with chopped chives before serving warm. Enjoy these delectable Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos!

How to Serve Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos

Serving Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos can be a fun and creative experience. These flavorful tacos can be customized with various toppings and sides to enhance their taste.

Classic Taco Presentation

• Serve on a platter: Arrange the tacos neatly on a large platter for sharing.
• Add lime wedges: Fresh lime adds a zesty kick when squeezed over the tacos.

Toppings Bar

• Set up a toppings station: Include sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and extra ranch sauce for guests to personalize their tacos.
• Offer different cheeses: Provide options like feta or pepper jack for anyone who wants to mix it up.

Pair with Drinks

• Serve with cold beverages: Pair these tacos with refreshing drinks like iced tea or lemonade to complement the meal.
• Offer a margarita option: A classic margarita pairs wonderfully with the smoky flavors of the chicken and bacon.

How to Perfect Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos

Perfecting your Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos involves attention to detail in both preparation and cooking techniques. Here are some essential tips.

• Bold season the meat: Ensure you generously season the chicken and bacon for maximum flavor.
• Bold use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and veggies; they significantly enhance the taco’s taste.
• Bold adjust cooking time: Pay attention to your grill temperature; cooking too fast can dry out the chicken.
• Bold let it rest: Allow your chicken to rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy.
• Bold experiment with tortillas: Try using corn tortillas for a different texture and flavor profile.
• Bold balance flavors: Ensure there’s a good mix of spicy, creamy, and tangy elements in each bite.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement the flavors beautifully.

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adding richness that pairs well with tacos.
2. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice that serves as a hearty side dish, perfect for soaking up sauces.
3. Corn Salad: A fresh salad featuring sweet corn, tomatoes, and cilantro, bringing brightness to your plate.
4. Coleslaw: Crunchy slaw adds texture and balances the flavors of the tacos.
5. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide protein and pair perfectly with Mexican cuisine.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make an excellent appetizer or side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken thighs for too long can make them dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 170°F and let them rest before slicing.
• Skipping the Marinade: Not seasoning your chicken well will result in bland tacos. Use oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder generously before grilling.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Cold tortillas can make your tacos less enjoyable. Warm them up in a skillet to ensure they’re crispy and delicious.
• Ignoring the Ranch Consistency: If your ranch is too thick, it won’t drizzle well over your tacos. Adjust the buttermilk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Not Chopping Bacon Finely: Large pieces of Turkey Turkey Bacon can disrupt the taco filling. Chop it finely for even distribution throughout the tacos.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped tacos in a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place tacos on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. Check frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place tacos in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side, ensuring they are crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to customize Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos?

You can customize these tacos by adding different toppings like avocado, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños. Choose your favorite ingredients!

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken thighs with grilled shrimp or beef if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I make homemade ranch dressing?

Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, dill, parsley, salt, and buttermilk to taste. This recipe is simple yet flavorful!

Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the ranch dressing a day in advance for easier assembly at mealtime.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Turkey Turkey Bacon Ranch Tacos are not just delicious; they offer versatility that allows everyone to enjoy them their own way. Feel free to customize toppings and sauces to match your preferences. Try this recipe today for a smoky twist on dinner that’s sure to please!