If you’re a fan of Del Taco, chances are you’ve ordered their iconic Chicken Soft Tacos more than once — that warm flour tortilla, the juicy chicken, the creamy white sauce, and just the right amount of fresh lettuce and cheese. It’s simple but oh-so-satisfying.
Now, you can recreate that drive-thru favorite at home with this Del Taco Chicken Soft Taco copycat recipe. It’s quick, easy, family-friendly, and loaded with flavor.
Whether you’re craving comfort food or putting together a last-minute meal, these tacos hit the spot every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These tacos are all about fresh flavor and fast comfort. Juicy marinated chicken, warm tortillas, cool lettuce, melty cheese, and that signature creamy sauce come together in minutes — all with ingredients you probably already have.
Perfect for picky eaters, busy weeknights, or game-day spreads, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that lets you control the quality and spice level. Plus, you can prep most of it ahead for even faster taco assembly!
What You’ll Need
For the chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of ½ lime
For the white sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp lime juice
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
For assembly:
- 6 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- Optional: diced tomatoes, jalapeños, hot sauce
Pro Tips
- Use thighs for juicier tacos, though breasts work great for a leaner version.
- Don’t skip the lime juice — it adds that fresh, zesty finish.
- Warm the tortillas just before serving to make them soft and pliable.
- Shred lettuce finely to match the Del Taco texture.
- Make it ahead — prep the sauce and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance.
Tools You’ll Need
- Cutting board & knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons
- Skillet or grill pan
- Tongs
- Spoon or squeeze bottle for sauce
- Paper towels or foil to keep tortillas warm
Substitutions & Variations
- Make it spicy: Add hot sauce to the white sauce or sprinkle chicken with cayenne.
- Low carb: Use lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas.
- Dairy-free: Use vegan mayo and skip the cheese.
- Add rice or beans: To turn it into a burrito-style taco.
- Swap protein: Try shrimp, steak, or crispy tofu!
Make Ahead Tips
The white sauce can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance. You can also pre-cook the chicken and reheat in a skillet before serving.
Instructions
1. Season and Marinate the Chicken
Cut chicken into strips or small pieces. In a bowl, toss with olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Let marinate for 15–30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge).
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning once, until golden and cooked through. Remove from heat and keep warm.
3. Make the White Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
4. Warm the Tortillas
Warm flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
5. Assemble the Tacos
Layer chicken onto each tortilla. Add shredded cheese, lettuce, and a drizzle of white sauce. Garnish with tomato or jalapeño if desired. Serve immediately!
Leftovers & Storage
Store leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat chicken in a skillet or microwave. Assemble tacos fresh for best texture and flavor.
Recipe FAQs
1. What kind of chicken does Del Taco use?
Del Taco uses grilled, marinated chicken breast strips. This recipe mimics that with a simple homemade spice blend and lime.
2. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Just toss it with the seasoning mix and a little oil and lime before heating.
3. What’s the white sauce made of?
It’s a tangy blend of mayo, sour cream, lime juice, and garlic powder — super easy and super tasty!
4. Can I freeze the chicken?
Yes! Cooked chicken freezes well. Let it cool completely, then freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before assembling tacos.
The Final Fold
These Del Taco Chicken Soft Tacos are the kind of meal that makes everyone happy — warm, flavorful, and easy to customize.
Whether you’re craving your favorite fast food flavors or just need a dinner that comes together fast, this copycat recipe delivers all the satisfaction of the original, made with love at home.
Give them a try and let me know in the comments — did you go classic or add your own twist?