Taco Bell Chicken Empanada: Everything You Need to Know
Introduction
Taco Bell has done it again! The fast-food giant is bringing back a fan-favorite item: the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada. Known for its crispy, golden-brown shell and flavorful chicken filling, this empanada is making waves among Taco Bell enthusiasts. But what makes it so special? How does it compare to other items on the menu? And most importantly—where can you get one before it’s gone?
In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada. From its ingredients and taste to pricing, availability, and nutritional facts, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions, so you don’t have to hunt for answers. Let’s get started!
Introduction to Taco Bell’s Chicken Empanada
What is the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada?
The Taco Bell Chicken Empanada is a handheld, crispy pastry stuffed with seasoned, shredded chicken and melted cheese. It’s a mix of Mexican-inspired flavors wrapped in a crunchy, deep-fried shell. Think of it as a crossover between a classic empanada and Taco Bell’s signature fast-food flair.
Unlike traditional empanadas, which often feature a softer, baked dough, Taco Bell’s version leans toward a crispier texture—more like a deep-fried turnover. Its bold flavors and convenient size make it perfect for on-the-go snacking or pairing with other menu items.
The History of Empanadas at Taco Bell
Empanadas aren’t new to Taco Bell’s menu. In the past, the chain offered the beloved Caramel Apple Empanada, a dessert option that gained a cult following before being discontinued. Now, Taco Bell is shaking things up with a savory twist, bringing back the Cheesy Chicken Crispanada—a close relative of the original Chicken Empanada.
While the name might differ, the concept remains the same: a crispy, cheese-filled pastry stuffed with juicy chicken. Fans who missed the Apple Empanada’s flaky crust are thrilled to see an empanada-style item return, this time in a cheesy, savory form.
Why the Return of the Chicken Empanada is Exciting
The return of the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada has sparked excitement among fans. Why? Because Taco Bell often experiments with limited-time menu items, and this crispy delight is no exception.
Many fast-food lovers are eager to see how it compares to the previous Caramel Apple Empanada and other discontinued favorites. Plus, with its unique flavor profile and crunchy texture, the empanada stands out as one of Taco Bell’s more adventurous menu additions.
If you’re a fan of crispy, cheesy, and savory fast-food treats, this might just be your new go-to snack. But hurry—like many Taco Bell exclusives, it won’t be around forever!
What Makes the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada Special?
Ingredients and Flavors: What’s Inside?
What sets the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada apart from other fast-food items? It all starts with the ingredients. This crispy pocket of goodness features a golden, flaky crust filled with seasoned shredded chicken and melted cheese. The filling blends white and dark meat chicken, offering a balance of tenderness and rich flavor.
But that’s not all—the seasoning is what makes it pop. The chicken is seasoned with Mexican-inspired spices, giving it a slightly smoky, savory kick. Combined with the gooey cheese, every bite delivers a bold, satisfying taste.
The Difference Between the Chicken Empanada and the Crispanada
Taco Bell has a history of reintroducing menu items with a twist. You may have heard of the Cheesy Chicken Crispanada, which is often compared to the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada. So, what’s the difference?
The Crispanada takes the empanada concept and cranks up the crunch. It’s designed to be even crispier, thanks to a thicker, deep-fried shell. While both are packed with cheesy chicken goodness, the Crispanada has a more pronounced, almost crunchy bite compared to the softer, pastry-like crust of the original empanada.
How Taco Bell’s Empanada Compares to Traditional Empanadas
Traditional empanadas vary widely depending on their country of origin. Classic Mexican empanadas are often baked and stuffed with meats, cheese, or even sweet fillings. In contrast, Taco Bell’s take is deep-fried, giving it a texture closer to a fast-food turnover than a homemade empanada.
Unlike homemade empanadas, which may use a wider variety of fillings, the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada keeps it simple—cheese and chicken with just the right seasonings. While it may not replace the authentic Latin American version, it’s a tasty, convenient option for those craving a crispy, cheesy snack.
Taste and Texture: Customer Reviews & First Impressions
What People Are Saying About the Flavor
Food lovers have taken to social media to share their thoughts on the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada, and the reactions are mostly positive. Many describe it as “crispy, cheesy, and flavorful”, while others praise its bold seasoning and satisfying texture.
Some customers compare the filling to the shredded chicken found in Taco Bell’s quesadillas, but with a crispier twist. The balance of cheese and chicken gets a lot of love, as it prevents the empanada from being too dry.
Texture and Crispiness: Does It Live Up to the Hype?
One of the biggest draws of the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada is its crispy, golden-brown shell. Unlike a soft taco or burrito, this item delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. The outer layer is light yet sturdy enough to hold the melted cheese and seasoned chicken inside.
However, some reviews mention that the texture can vary depending on freshness. When served hot, it’s perfectly crispy, but if left sitting too long, it may lose some of its crunch.
Comparing the Chicken Empanada to Taco Bell’s Past Menu Items
Taco Bell has experimented with several crispy, stuffed menu items in the past, including the Cheesy Gordita Crunch, the Chicken Chalupa, and the legendary Caramel Apple Empanada. Here’s how the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada stacks up:
- Compared to the Caramel Apple Empanada – The old dessert version was sweeter and softer, while the chicken empanada is savory and crispier.
- Compared to the Chicken Chalupa – The empanada has more crunch and a flakier crust, while the chalupa is chewy and thick.
- Compared to the Quesadilla – Both share a cheesy chicken filling, but the empanada offers a deep-fried, crispy experience.
Overall, fans of crunchy, cheesy fast food will likely love the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada!
How and Where to Get the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada
Is the Chicken Empanada Available Nationwide?
If you’re eager to try the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada, you’re not alone! This crispy, cheesy delight has sparked excitement among fans. But is it available everywhere?
Currently, Taco Bell has released the empanada in select locations, and availability may vary by region. Some areas have already stocked their menus with this limited-time item, while others are still waiting for it to roll out. If you’re unsure, your best bet is to check Taco Bell’s website or app to see if your local store carries it.
Limited-Time Offering: How Long Will It Be Available?
Taco Bell is famous for testing new items before deciding on a full launch. While there’s no official confirmation on how long the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada will stay on the menu, most limited-time items last a few months at best.
If the empanada gains enough popularity, Taco Bell might extend its run or even make it a permanent menu item. But don’t take that chance—if you want to try it, grab one while you can!
Pricing and Value: Is It Worth the Cost?
So, how much does the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada cost? Prices vary by location, but on average, it’s priced around $3.49. For a crispy, cheesy, protein-packed snack, many customers think it’s a solid deal.
Compared to other Taco Bell items, the empanada sits in the mid-range price tier, making it affordable yet filling. It’s also a great side item to pair with your favorite Taco Bell meals.
Nutritional Information & Dietary Considerations
Calories, Fat, Protein, and Carb Breakdown
If you’re watching your diet, you might be wondering how the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada fits into your daily intake. Here’s a general breakdown of its estimated nutrition per serving:
- Calories: ~320-350 kcal
- Total Fat: ~18-22g
- Saturated Fat: ~7-9g
- Carbohydrates: ~30-35g
- Protein: ~12-15g
- Sodium: ~500-600mg
Like many fried fast-food items, the empanada is higher in fat and carbs but also provides a decent amount of protein.
Is It a Good Option for Different Diets?
The Taco Bell Chicken Empanada is not gluten-free, as the crust contains wheat. It’s also not keto-friendly due to its carb content. However, if you’re simply looking for a high-protein snack, it could fit into a balanced diet when eaten in moderation.
For those looking for a vegetarian or vegan alternative, Taco Bell offers plenty of customizable menu options like the Black Bean Crunchwrap or the Vegetarian Taco Meat Recipe (for a homemade alternative, check out this recipe).
How Does It Compare to Other Taco Bell Menu Items?
When comparing the empanada to other Taco Bell favorites:
- It has fewer calories than a Cheesy Gordita Crunch but more than a regular soft taco.
- It’s crispier than a quesadilla but less filling than a burrito.
- It has more protein than the Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes but less than a Grilled Chicken Power Bowl.
If you’re looking for a crispy, satisfying snack with cheesy goodness, the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada is a solid choice.
For more delicious recipes and fast-food insights, check out our latest food guides on Hightasty!
How to Customize Your Taco Bell Chicken Empanada
Adding Sauces: The Best Combinations
One of the best ways to elevate your Taco Bell Chicken Empanada experience is by adding extra sauces. Taco Bell has plenty of options to choose from, depending on whether you prefer a creamy, spicy, or tangy twist.
- Nacho Cheese Sauce – If you love extra cheesiness, dipping your empanada in warm nacho cheese is a game-changer.
- Avocado Ranch Sauce – This smooth, creamy sauce balances the crispy shell with a cool, tangy flavor.
- Chipotle Sauce – Want a smoky, slightly spicy kick? This sauce enhances the empanada’s bold flavors.
- Fire or Diablo Sauce – Heat lovers, this one’s for you! These sauces add an intense, fiery spice to each bite.
Pairing It with Other Menu Items
The Taco Bell Chicken Empanada is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with other Taco Bell favorites. Consider these combos for a more satisfying meal:
- Empanada + Crunchy Taco – A mix of crispy and crunchy textures for the ultimate bite.
- Empanada + Black Beans & Rice – A balanced combo with extra fiber and protein.
- Empanada + Baja Blast – Cool down the heat with Taco Bell’s signature soda.
Secret Menu Hacks
Taco Bell fans love customizing menu items, and the empanada is no exception. Here are some secret menu tricks to try:
- Make it Supreme – Ask for lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream on the side for a fresh touch.
- Add it to a Burrito – Order a bean burrito and stuff your empanada inside for a crunchy surprise.
- Double the Cheese – Request extra melted cheese inside for even more gooey goodness.
FAQs
Is the Empanada Back at Taco Bell?
Yes! The Taco Bell Chicken Empanada has made a comeback in select locations. However, it’s currently a limited-time item, so check your local Taco Bell to see if it’s available near you.
Does Taco Bell Have the Crispy Chicken Empanada?
Yes, but Taco Bell has rebranded it as the Cheesy Chicken Crispanada in some locations. While the names may differ, the core concept remains the same—a crispy, cheese-filled chicken empanada with bold flavors.
Did Taco Bell Bring Back the Chicken Crispanada?
Taco Bell has reintroduced the empanada with a twist, calling it the Cheesy Chicken Crispanada. It’s similar to the original empanada but has a crispier texture and more emphasis on cheesy goodness.
How Much Is a Crispanada?
The price varies by location, but on average, the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada or Crispanada costs around $3.49. Prices may be slightly higher in certain cities, but overall, it remains an affordable, tasty snack.
That wraps up everything you need to know about the Taco Bell Chicken Empanada! Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, this crispy, cheesy treat is worth a bite. Be sure to grab one while it’s still available! 🚀