Copycat Taco Bell Crispanada

Bring the delicious taste of Taco Bell home with these scrumptious crispanadas. With a crispy exterior and a flavorful, cheesy chicken filling, these empanadas are perfect for a fun meal or party snack. Complemented by a zesty spicy ranch dipping sauce, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Crispanadas:
🍗 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded or diced small
🌮 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
🧀 2 cups salsa con queso
🧀 2 cups Mexican blend cheese
🍞 2 packets Empanada discos
🛢️ Oil for frying

For the Spicy Ranch Dipping Sauce:
🥄 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
🥄 1/2 cup mayonnaise
🧂 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
🌶️ 2 tablespoons Sriracha (or any hot sauce of choice)

Instructions

1- Prepare the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, taco seasoning, queso, and Mexican blend cheese.
Stir thoroughly until the filling mixture is well blended.

2- Assemble the Crispanadas:

Take an empanada disco and place 2 heaping tablespoons of the filling in the center.
Fold the pastry over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
Firmly press the edges together to seal, then use the back of a fork to crimp the edges. Repeat with the remaining discos and filling.

3- Fry the Crispanadas:

Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
Once hot, carefully add the filled empanadas in batches.
Fry them until they are golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.

4- Prepare the Dipping Sauce:

While your empanadas are frying, prepare the dipping sauce.
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, ranch seasoning, and Sriracha.
Mix until smooth.

5- Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the crispanadas hot with the spicy ranch dipping sauce on the side.
Enjoy this tasty treat with family and friends!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: Approximately 8 servings
Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
Proteins: 20g per serving
Fats: 20g per serving
Carbohydrates: 25g per serving
Equipment: Mixing bowls, frying pan, fork, paper towels