Taco Bell Shredded Chicken Burrito Recipe: Fan-Favorite

Introduction to Tacos Bell Shredded Chicken Burrito

The Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito was one of the most popular menu items for years. Known for its savory shredded chicken, flavorful sauce, and perfectly soft tortilla, this burrito offered the ideal balance of taste, texture, and convenience.

Despite being discontinued in 2020, the Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito still holds a special place in the hearts of fast-food lovers. Fans constantly request its return, but until that happens, the best solution is to make it at home. Fortunately, the recipe is simple, and with the right techniques, you can recreate this delicious burrito in your own kitchen.

This guide will take you through everything you need to know, from the ingredients and preparation process to recipe variations, common mistakes, and nutritional benefits. Whether you’re a die-hard Taco Bell fan or just someone looking for a satisfying meal, this step-by-step guide will help you master the perfect Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito.

But before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at what makes this burrito so special.

What Makes the Taco Bell Shredded Chicken Burrito Unique?

Several features set the Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito apart from other burritos:

Slow-cooked, shredded chicken – Unlike grilled or diced chicken, Taco Bell’s shredded chicken was cooked until incredibly tender, soaking up the flavors of the sauce.
Creamy, zesty sauce – The signature sauce, made with sour cream and hot sauce, added a tangy, slightly spicy kick.
Perfectly balanced fillings – The burrito included seasoned rice, shredded cheese, and refried beans, creating a combination of textures and flavors.
Soft yet sturdy tortilla – The warm flour tortilla held everything together while remaining soft and easy to bite into.

Now that we understand why this burrito was such a fan favorite, let’s go over the ingredients needed to recreate it at home.

Ingredients for Taco Bell Shredded Chicken Burrito

To replicate the Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito with authentic flavor, you’ll need a variety of fresh, high-quality ingredients.

For the Shredded Chicken

The chicken is the heart of this burrito, and achieving the right texture and flavor is crucial.

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or substitute with chicken thighs for extra tenderness)
1 ½ cups chicken broth (adds moisture and prevents dryness)
1 tablespoon olive oil (helps lock in flavors)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds depth and aroma)
1 teaspoon onion powder (balances out the garlic)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a slight smokiness)
½ teaspoon cumin (provides warmth and earthiness)
½ teaspoon chili powder (gives it a mild kick)
½ teaspoon salt (enhances all flavors)
½ teaspoon black pepper (adds a bit of spice)
1 tablespoon lime juice (for a subtle citrusy tang)

For the Creamy Taco Bell-Style Sauce

The sauce is what ties all the ingredients together, giving the burrito its signature taste.

¾ cup sour cream (rich and creamy base)
½ cup mayonnaise (adds smoothness)
2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to spice preference)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (blends well with the other flavors)
1 teaspoon onion powder (adds extra seasoning)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (enhances the smoky profile)
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for those who like extra heat)

For Assembling the Burrito

Every great burrito needs the right fillings.

4 large flour tortillas (soft and pliable)
1 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso quesadilla cheese)
1 ½ cups cooked white rice (seasoned with lime juice and cilantro)
¾ cup refried beans (optional, but adds a creamy texture)
½ cup pico de gallo or diced tomatoes (for freshness)

These ingredients ensure that your Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito tastes as close as possible to the original. Now, let’s look at the tools you’ll need.

Tools Needed for Preparation

To make the perfect Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito, having the right tools will make the process easier and more efficient.

Slow cooker or Instant Pot – This is the best way to achieve juicy, flavorful shredded chicken.
Large skillet or griddle – Used for warming the tortillas and lightly toasting the burrito for extra texture.
Mixing bowls – Needed for preparing the sauce and seasoning the chicken.
Whisk – Helps blend the sauce ingredients smoothly.
Cutting board & sharp knife – Essential for chopping any additional toppings like fresh cilantro or tomatoes.
Tongs – Useful for handling hot chicken while shredding.
Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures accuracy when adding seasonings.

With everything ready, it’s time to move on to the actual cooking process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Taco Bell Shredded Chicken Burrito

Creating the Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito at home requires two main steps: preparing the chicken and assembling the burrito.

Preparing the Taco Bell Shredded Chicken Burrito

Season the Chicken – In a mixing bowl, coat the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Chicken – Place the chicken in a slow cooker or Instant Pot with chicken broth, olive oil, and lime juice. Cook on low for 6 hours (or high for 3 hours).
Shred the Chicken – Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken into fine pieces.

Assembling the Taco Bell Shredded Chicken Burrito

Warm the Tortillas – Heat each tortilla on a griddle or skillet for about 20 seconds per side.
Layer the Ingredients – Spread a layer of refried beans, followed by seasoned rice, shredded chicken, cheese, and sauce.
Roll the Burrito – Fold in the sides first, then roll the tortilla tightly from bottom to top.
Toast for Extra Texture – Place the burrito on a heated skillet for 2-3 minutes per side to add a crispy exterior.

Variations of the Recipe

While the classic Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito is already delicious, there are several ways to modify the recipe based on your preferences. Whether you want a healthier version, a spicier option, or a different protein source, these variations will help you enjoy a customized burrito.

1. Spicy Taco Bell Shredded Chicken Burrito

If you love bold, fiery flavors, try this spicier version:

Double the cayenne pepper and chili powder in the seasoning mix.
Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the burrito filling.
Use a spicier hot sauce, such as habanero sauce or ghost pepper salsa.
Top the burrito with crushed red pepper flakes before rolling it up.

2. Cheesy Supreme Shredded Chicken Burrito

For those who can’t get enough cheese, this version enhances the creaminess and richness of the burrito.

Use extra shredded cheese, both inside the burrito and sprinkled on top before toasting.
Melt nacho cheese sauce and drizzle it over the chicken.
Mix cream cheese into the sauce for an even smoother texture.
Use a blend of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso fresco.

3. Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Version

If you’re watching your carb intake but still want to enjoy the flavors of the Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito, this option is for you.

Replace the flour tortilla with a lettuce wrap or a low-carb tortilla.
Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Skip the beans and add more shredded chicken.
Increase the amount of cheese and avocado for healthy fats.

4. Vegetarian Taco Bell Shredded “Chicken” Burrito

For a plant-based alternative, replace the chicken with jackfruit, mushrooms, or tofu.

Jackfruit mimics shredded chicken in texture and absorbs flavors well.
Grilled portobello mushrooms provide a meaty bite.
Marinated tofu crumbles add protein while keeping it vegetarian.
Swap sour cream for dairy-free alternatives like cashew-based cream.

5. High-Protein Bodybuilder Burrito

If you’re looking for a high-protein meal, this variation will keep you full and energized.

Use double the shredded chicken for extra protein.
Add black beans for additional fiber and protein.
Incorporate Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to increase protein intake.
Use a whole-wheat or protein tortilla for added nutrients.

These variations allow you to personalize your Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito while keeping the flavors bold and satisfying.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even though the Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito is relatively easy to make, small mistakes can impact the flavor and texture. Here are some common errors and how to fix them.

1. Overcooking or Undercooking the Chicken

Mistake: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry and stringy, while undercooked chicken lacks flavor.
Solution: Use a slow cooker or Instant Pot to ensure the chicken remains moist and tender. Cooking on low heat for 6 hours is the best way to get soft, juicy shredded chicken.

2. Not Using Enough Sauce

Mistake: Without enough sauce, the burrito can feel dry and bland.
Solution: Double the amount of creamy sauce inside the burrito and drizzle some extra sauce on top before serving.

3. Overfilling the Burrito

Mistake: Too many fillings make the burrito difficult to roll and can cause it to tear.
Solution: Use moderate portions and press down the filling slightly before rolling the tortilla tightly.

4. Using Cold Tortillas

Mistake: Cold tortillas are stiff and tend to crack when folded.
Solution: Warm the tortillas on a skillet for about 20-30 seconds per side before assembling the burrito.

5. Skipping the Final Toasting Step

Mistake: The burrito can feel too soft or soggy if it’s not toasted.
Solution: Toast the assembled burrito on a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until it turns golden brown and slightly crispy.

By avoiding these mistakes, your homemade Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito will taste just as good—if not better—than the original.

Nutritional Benefits of Tacos Bell Shredded Chicken Burrito

While the Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito is often considered a fast-food indulgence, it actually offers several nutritional benefits when made at home.

1. High in Protein

Shredded chicken provides a lean source of protein, which helps with muscle growth and repair.
Each burrito contains 20-30 grams of protein, depending on portion size.

2. Good Source of Fiber

Beans, whole wheat tortillas, and vegetables add fiber, which supports digestion.
A fiber-rich meal keeps you full for longer and stabilizes blood sugar levels.

3. Healthy Fats for Energy

Using olive oil, avocado, or cheese provides healthy fats for sustained energy.
Opt for Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for added protein and probiotics.

Pairing Taco Bell Shredded Chicken Burrito with Sides and Drinks

To make your meal more enjoyable, pair your Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito with delicious side dishes and drinks.

Best Side Dishes

Tortilla chips with guacamole – The crunch of tortilla chips contrasts nicely with the softness of the burrito.
Mexican street corn (elote) – Grilled corn topped with mayo, cotija cheese, and chili powder adds a rich, smoky taste.
Refried beans or black beans – A classic side that adds extra protein and fiber.

Best Drink Pairings

Classic soda (Pepsi, Mountain Dew, or Baja Blast) – These drinks are Taco Bell staples.
Fresh lime agua fresca – A refreshing, non-carbonated alternative.
Spicy mango margarita – If you’re feeling fancy, a margarita pairs perfectly with Mexican flavors.

FAQs About TacosBell Shredded Chicken Burrito

Taco Bell Shredded Chicken Burrito: What Happened & Is It Coming Back?

Taco Bell fans have been wondering about the shredded chicken burrito and other chicken menu items that have disappeared over the years. If you’ve been asking, “What happened to the Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito?” or “Does Taco Bell still have a chicken burrito?”—this guide has all the answers.

What Happened to Taco Bell’s Shredded Chicken Burrito?

The Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito was officially discontinued in November 2020 as part of a menu simplification strategy. Taco Bell removed several items, including shredded chicken soft tacos, shredded chicken burritos, and shredded chicken quesadillas.

The decision was made to streamline operations and focus on more popular and high-demand menu items. Despite backlash from fans, Taco Bell has not announced plans to bring it back. However, many customers continue to request its return, and limited-time promotions could bring it back in the future.

Does Taco Bell Still Have a Chicken Burrito?

Yes, Taco Bell still offers chicken burritos, but they no longer use the original shredded chicken recipe. Instead, they now feature grilled and seasoned chicken in their burrito options. Some current chicken burrito options include:

Chicken Burrito – Made with seasoned chicken, rice, cheese, and creamy chipotle sauce.
Burrito Supreme® (Chicken) – Includes grilled chicken, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and red sauce.
Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito – Features grilled chicken, creamy chipotle ranch sauce, fiesta strips, lettuce, and cheese.

While these burritos are tasty, they don’t have the same flavor or texture as the shredded chicken burrito that many Taco Bell fans miss.

Is Taco Bell’s Chicken Burrito Supreme Healthy?

The Chicken Burrito Supreme® at Taco Bell is relatively healthier than some other fast-food burritos, but it depends on your dietary goals. Here’s a breakdown of its nutrition facts:

Calories: ~ 400
Protein: ~ 20g
Fat: ~ 11g
Carbohydrates: ~ 55g
Sodium: ~ 1,200mg

Health Pros:

High in protein (20g per serving)
Lower in fat compared to beef options
Includes fiber-rich beans & veggies

Health Cons:

High in sodium (over 1,000mg)
Refined carbs from the tortilla and rice
Contains processed ingredients

For a healthier version, you can request “Fresco Style” (removes cheese and sour cream) or order it without rice to reduce carbs.

Did Taco Bell Take Away the Chipotle Chicken Burrito?

Yes, Taco Bell discontinued the Chipotle Chicken Loaded Griller, which was a fan-favorite burrito featuring grilled chicken, chipotle sauce, and cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla. This was part of the same menu streamlining in 2020 when they removed shredded chicken.

However, Taco Bell has since introduced new chicken burritos, like the Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito, which offers a similar flavor profile. While it’s not identical to the original, it does include grilled chicken, chipotle sauce, and extra toppings like fiesta strips.

Final Thoughts: Will Tacos Bell Bring Back the Shredded Chicken Burrito?

Although Taco Bell has not announced any plans to bring back the shredded chicken burrito, fan demand remains strong. Taco Bell has been known to revive discontinued menu items for limited-time promotions, so there’s always a possibility that shredded chicken could return in the future.

In the meantime, you can recreate the Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito at home using simple ingredients like slow-cooked chicken, creamy sauce, seasoned rice, and a soft flour tortilla.

Would you love to see the shredded chicken burrito return? Let Taco Bell know on social media—they’ve been known to bring back fan favorites based on customer feedback! 🚀🌯

Conclusion: Tacos Bell Shredded Chicken Burrito

The Taco Bell shredded chicken burrito remains a fan-favorite, even years after its discontinuation. With this comprehensive guide, you now have everything you need to recreate it at home.

From the perfect shredded chicken to the zesty sauce and customizable variations, this burrito is guaranteed to be a hit. Whether you’re making it for yourself, friends, or family, it’s a delicious, satisfying meal that you can enjoy anytime.

Try making it today, and let us know how it turns out! 🚀🌯