Name: Chicken Big Mac Tacos with Special Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins, tendons removed; 8-10 flour tortillas; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 head lettuce, shredded; 24 dill pickle slices (about 3 per taco); 8 slices American cheese; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon grated yellow onion, including the juices; 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish; 2 teaspoons yellow mustard; 1/2 teaspoon white or apple cider vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 egg; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken stock or broth; 1 1/4 teaspoons salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 3/4 cup flour; 1 1/2 cups flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 38 reviews

If you are craving a fun twist on two classic favorites, you’re going to adore this Chicken Big Mac Tacos with Special Sauce Recipe. Imagine the iconic flavors of a Big Mac reimagined inside soft flour tortillas, loaded with crispy, seasoned chicken tenderloins and that unmistakable tangy special sauce. It’s a joyous flavor mash-up that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. Each bite bursts with crunchy pickles, melted American cheese, and fresh lettuce, bringing that legendary burger vibe into taco form. This recipe brings an exciting way to impress your family or guests with something familiar yet totally new and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. At the center, there is a white plate with raw chicken strips seasoned with red and black spices. Above it, there are three folded white tortillas. To the right, there is a pack of Kraft Deli Deluxe American cheese in its blue packaging. Above the chicken is a small white bowl filled with shredded light green lettuce. In the top left, a small clear glass bowl holds a mix of spices including black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and red paprika. Below it, a single brown egg sits beside a light blue cup filled with white flour. To the right of the flour cup, a metal measuring cup filled with another white powdery ingredient is placed. Below this, a small pink container holds a golden brown liquid, and next to it, a wooden-handled metal measuring cup contains milk. Finally, just above the chicken, another clear bowl is filled with the same spice mix as the top left bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Chicken Big Mac Tacos with Special Sauce Recipe is how it takes straightforward ingredients and transforms them into something extraordinary. Each component is there for a reason, contributing to the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, tangy, and fresh that will have you hooked from the first bite.

1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins: Tender and perfect for coating in the crispy batter.
8-10 flour tortillas: Soft and pliable, the ideal vessel for all the fillings.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness when cooking the chicken.
1/2 head lettuce, shredded: Brings a cool, crisp texture that balances the richness.
24 dill pickle slices: The essential tangy crunch reminiscent of a classic Big Mac.
8 slices American cheese: Melts beautifully to add that creamy cheesiness everyone loves.
Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The creamy base for the special Big Mac sauce.
1 tablespoon grated yellow onion: Adds subtle sharpness and moisture.
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish: Boosts the sweet and tangy flavor in the sauce.
2 teaspoons yellow mustard: Provides that classic, zesty kick.
1/2 teaspoon vinegar: Balances everything with a touch of acidity.
Spices for sauce (paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt): Layer in a savory depth.
Wet batter ingredients (egg, milk, chicken broth, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, flour): Combine for the perfect crispy coating.
Dry flour mixture (flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper): Works together with the wet batter to create that irresistible crunch.

How to Make Chicken Big Mac Tacos with Special Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Special Big Mac Sauce

Start by making the special sauce, which is truly the heart of this recipe. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated yellow onion (juices included), sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, vinegar, paprika, onion powder, sea salt, and garlic powder. Mix everything thoroughly until smooth and aromatic. This homemade sauce captures the iconic Big Mac flavor in a creamy, tangy dressing that will elevate these tacos to unforgettable status. Pop it in the fridge to let all those flavors meld while you move on to prepping the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet and Dry Batters

Next, mix the wet batter by whisking together the egg, milk, chicken broth, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and flour. This wet batter will keep the chicken moist while adding flavor. In a separate bowl, stir together the dry flour mixture: flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. When you dip the chicken tenderloins, you’ll coat them first in the wet batter, then dredge them in the dry mixture for a crispy, well-seasoned crust that perfectly mimics the crunchy appeal of a Big Mac’s bun texture.

Step 3: Cook the Crispy Chicken Tenderloins

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Dip each chicken tenderloin into the wet batter, then coat it evenly with the dry flour mixture. Carefully lay the chicken pieces in the pan and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side depending on thickness. The combination of spices and double coating creates a crust that’s crispy, flavorful, and addictive. Make sure the oil isn’t too hot so you get perfect cooking without burning.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas and Assemble

While the chicken cooks, warm your flour tortillas in a dry pan or wrap them in foil and heat in the oven briefly until soft and pliable. To assemble each taco, layer shredded lettuce as a base, place a crispy chicken tenderloin on top, add a slice of American cheese (which will melt slightly from the chicken’s warmth), then pile on 3 dill pickle slices. Finish generously with the special sauce, the final touch that brings all the flavors together. Fold taco-style and get ready for a taste sensation.

How to Serve Chicken Big Mac Tacos with Special Sauce Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a white bowl filled with a creamy mixture that has swirls of golden yellow and light brown spices spread unevenly on top. The creamy base is smooth and white, while the yellow parts look like oil drizzled in uneven lines, and the brown color appears as fine powder sprinkled and swirling gently into the cream. A metal spoon rests inside the bowl, partially submerged in the mixture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes is a great way to accent the dish visually and texturally. Try sprinkling chopped fresh chives or a sprinkle of sesame seeds atop the tacos for a subtle crunch and extra pop of flavor that nods to the sesame seed bun of a Big Mac. A little extra shredded lettuce or finely diced onions also add freshness and texture contrast that keeps each bite interesting and balanced.

Side Dishes

Serve these Chicken Big Mac Tacos with crispy fries or a fresh cabbage slaw to complement the richness of the chicken and special sauce. A tangy coleslaw cuts through the creaminess beautifully, while fries offer that familiar pairing we all adore. You could also try a simple side salad with citrus vinaigrette to brighten the whole meal and add a veggie boost.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual dinner party or game day snack, serve the tacos open-faced on a large platter with plenty of extra sauce for dipping. You can also present them as mini taco sliders by using smaller tortillas, perfect for finger food fun. Wrapping each taco in parchment paper or colorful napkins helps keep things neat and makes eating much easier if you are on the go or doing a casual buffet-style meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, wrap the assembled tacos tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. The chicken will remain flavorful and the sauce will keep its texture for up to 2 days. To keep the tortillas from getting soggy, consider storing components separately and assembling freshly when ready to eat again.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken tenderloins by placing them in a sealed freezer bag with as much air removed as possible. They freeze well for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Avoid freezing assembled tacos because the lettuce and sauce do not reheat well, but keeping chicken and sauce separately will work.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken tenderloins gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the crispy coating intact, or warm them briefly in the microwave then crisp up in a hot pan for a minute. Reheat tortillas wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave for 30 seconds to get softness back. Add fresh lettuce and pickles after reheating and freshen up the special sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken tenderloins work best because they cook quickly and stay juicy, you could use chicken breasts sliced into strips. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re cooked through but still tender inside.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Chicken Big Mac Tacos with Special Sauce Recipe?

Yes! Swap the chicken for crispy fried cauliflower or a hearty mushroom like oyster or portobello for a delicious plant-based take. The same batter and sauce work beautifully with vegetables for a similar texture and flavor experience.

How spicy is the special sauce?

The special sauce is perfectly mild and tangy with no significant heat, making it a crowd-pleaser even for kids. If you want to add a little kick, consider mixing in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely. The special sauce actually tastes better when made a few hours in advance because the flavors have time to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?

American cheese is ideal for its melting quality and classic flavor that mirrors a real Big Mac. However, you can also try cheddar or even a mild Colby if you prefer a slight variation.

Final Thoughts

Get ready to fall in love with this Chicken Big Mac Tacos with Special Sauce Recipe because it’s a perfect marriage of nostalgic flavor and fresh, fun presentation. Whether for weeknight dinners or sharing with friends, these tacos offer an irresistibly crunchy, cheesy, tangy experience that will have you reaching for seconds. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple ingredients come together to create your new favorite taco twist.