TOMS RIVER, NJ – Taco Bell is turning up the heat in 2026, announcing the return of its Crispy Chicken Nuggets alongside a brand-new flavor collaboration — the Hidden Valley Diablo Ranch Sauce — as the fast-food chain continues to expand its growing crispy chicken lineup.
The company revealed the spicy comeback on January 22, marking the one-year anniversary of its crispy chicken campaign, which has sold more than 70 million items since launch. The limited-time re-release continues Taco Bell’s push to position itself as a serious contender in the crispy chicken space, following the popularity of its earlier menu innovations.
Made from all-white-meat chicken, Taco Bell’s Crispy Chicken Nuggets are coated in a tortilla-chip-flaked breading for added crunch. The new Hidden Valley Diablo Ranch Sauce blends the creamy coolness of traditional Hidden Valley Ranch with the smoky, bold kick of Taco Bell’s signature Diablo sauce, creating a sauce specifically designed for fans seeking heat.
- Taco Bell relaunches Crispy Chicken Nuggets nationwide
- New Hidden Valley Diablo Ranch Sauce debuts as part of limited collaboration
- Brand says crispy chicken lineup has brought in nearly a quarter of all new customers in 2025
Liz Matthews, Taco Bell’s Global Chief Food Innovation Officer, said the brand is doubling down on fan demand. “Over the past year, our crispy chicken has built a loyal fanbase faster than we could’ve imagined — and we’re just getting started,” Matthews said. “Bringing back Crispy Chicken Nuggets while leveling up our collab with Hidden Valley Ranch is our way of delivering what fans are clearly craving: big flavor, bold heat, and unexpected twists that only Taco Bell can deliver.”
The announcement follows a series of new product launches as Taco Bell continues its momentum in the competitive quick-service chicken market. The brand said more details on availability and pricing will be released at participating restaurants nationwide in the coming weeks.
