Taco Bell Brings Back Crispy Chicken Nuggets With Plans for a Bigger Comeback
Taco Bell is reintroducing its fan-favorite crispy chicken nuggets nationwide on April 24, and this time, the brand says it’s ready to meet the overwhelming demand that caused a near-instant sellout during their initial debut late last year.
The crispy nuggets will be available for an eight-week limited run across U.S. locations, but there’s more to the return than just a temporary treat. In an exclusive statement to CNN, Taco Bell revealed it is considering making the nuggets – and crispy chicken offerings in general – a permanent part of the menu as early as 2026, provided customer enthusiasm remains high.
“We learned a lot from the first launch,” said Taylor Montgomery, Taco Bell’s Chief Marketing Officer. “This time, we’ve scaled up production and are confident we can keep up with demand.”
Taco Bell’s twist on chicken nuggets features all-white meat marinated in a jalapeño buttermilk blend, then coated in crunchy tortilla chips and breadcrumbs. Served with a variety of dipping sauces – including a spicy ranch developed in partnership with Hidden Valley – the nuggets stand out in a crowded fast-food chicken market.
Pricing starts at $3.99 for five pieces with a sauce, and goes up to $6.99 for 10 pieces with two sauces. A full value meal featuring 10 nuggets, nacho fries, cheese sauce, and a large drink will retail for $8.99.
While the December launch hinted at long-term potential, Montgomery said the chain is still assessing operational readiness across its 8,000 U.S. locations before making crispy chicken a permanent fixture.
“We want to make sure our kitchens can consistently deliver top-quality nuggets,” he said.
Taco Bell is also positioning crispy chicken as part of a broader strategy to grow its presence in the fast-food chicken segment, aiming to turn it into a $5 billion category by 2030. The move aligns with industry trends, as brands like McDonald’s, Popeyes, Wingstop, and Wendy’s continue to double down on poultry-based menu innovations.
R.J. Hottovy, head of analytical research at Placer.ai, noted that Taco Bell’s original launch drove strong foot traffic and customer loyalty, helping the brand outperform many of its rivals. “The combination of affordable pricing, flavor innovation, and consumer excitement created a powerful formula for success,” he said.
The renewed focus on crispy chicken also taps into evolving consumer preferences, particularly among Gen Z, who enjoy experimenting with flavors and view chicken as a healthier protein option.
As Montgomery put it, “Crispy chicken offers flexibility, flavor, and fun – and that’s exactly what our audience is looking for.”
