Taco Bell Chicken Chipotle Melt Recipe
Taco Bell Chicken Chipotle Melt is so irresistible because it hits all the right flavor notes. The smoky chipotle sauce adds a subtle kick of heat while the creamy melted cheese balances out the spice perfectly. The tender chicken provides the ideal protein base, making every bite satisfying and flavorful.
Equipment
- Non-stick skillet or griddle for grilling the melts
- Sharp knife for chopping ingredients
- Cutting board for easy preparation
- Mixing bowls for combining the chicken and sauce
- Spatula for flipping the melts
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Flour tortillas large size, for wrapping the chicken
- Chipotle sauce you can make your own or buy a pre-made sauce
- Shredded cheddar cheese for the melty goodness
- Sour cream optional, for added creaminess
- Lettuce diced tomatoes, or onions (for extra freshness, optional)
- Cilantro fresh, for garnish
- Olive oil for cooking the chicken
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili powder for extra flavor. Cook the chicken until it's fully cooked and golden brown on all sides, about 6–8 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Chipotle Sauce
- While the chicken is cooking, it's time to prepare the chipotle sauce. In a small mixing bowl, combine sour cream, chipotle sauce, a squeeze of lime, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until smooth. You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less chipotle sauce, depending on your preference.
Step 3: Assemble the Melt
- Once the chicken is cooked, take a flour tortilla and spread a generous amount of the chipotle sauce over it. Add the cooked chicken pieces in the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top to ensure a melty finish.
Step 4: Fold and Grill
- Fold the tortilla over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the filled tortilla onto the skillet and grill until the cheese is melted and the outside is golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
- Once your Chicken Chipotle Melt is grilled to perfection, remove it from the skillet and let it cool for a moment. Slice the melt into halves or quarters, depending on your preference.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy!
- Garnish your Taco Bell Chicken Chipotle Melt with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or any of your favorite toppings. Serve it with a side of chips, guacamole, or a refreshing drink, and you're good to go!
Step 7: Optional Add-Ins
- Feeling adventurous? You can add extra toppings like jalapeños for heat, avocado for creaminess, or lettuce for crunch.
Notes
- Customization: This recipe is highly customizable! You can swap out the chicken for other proteins such as grilled steak, shrimp, or even a plant-based alternative like tofu or beans for a vegetarian version.
- Sauce Variations: If you prefer less heat, you can substitute the chipotle sauce for a mild barbecue sauce or a tangy ranch dressing. For more heat, consider adding extra chipotle or even some hot sauce to kick things up.
- Tortillas: While flour tortillas work best for this melt, feel free to experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas if you need a healthier or gluten-free option. Just make sure they’re large enough to hold the filling and allow for a good fold.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can use Monterey Jack for a creamier texture or add pepper jack for an extra spicy kick. For a more indulgent option, blend a couple of cheese types together for a gooey, flavorful result.
- Cooking Tips: When grilling the melts, be sure to cook them on medium heat to avoid burning the tortilla while ensuring the cheese melts properly. If you're looking for an extra crispy exterior, try pressing down gently on the melts with a spatula while they cook.
- Leftovers: This recipe makes 4 melts, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to preserve the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the tortilla soggy.
- Spicy Level: The chipotle sauce adds a smoky, medium heat. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less chipotle sauce. For those who enjoy spicier foods, adding fresh jalapeños or hot sauce is a great way to amplify the spice.
- Meal Pairings: The Chicken Chipotle Melt is perfect on its own, but for a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side of tortilla chips and guacamole, a refreshing salad, or some Mexican rice. A cold beverage like iced tea or a light margarita would complement the dish nicely.