Crispy chicken strips will be returning to Taco Bell on Thursday, Oct. 16.
This time around, the Irvine-based fast food giant is partnering with Frank’s RedHot, a hot sauce brand that dates from 1920 and takes credit for being used in the first Buffalo hot wings recipe.
Taco Bell describes the new Frank’s RedHot Diablo Sauce as a mashup of Frank’s original Buffalo flavor, its own Diablo sauce and spicy ranch dressing.
The sauce will be included in four limited-time items at participating locations, according to a news release.
Frank’s RedHot Diablo Crispy Chicken Burrito is served in a flour tortilla with lettuce, purple cabbage, pico de gallo and cheddar cheese for about $5.49. Taco Bell prices vary by location.
Frank’s RedHot Diablo Crispy Chicken Soft Taco comes in a soft flour tortilla for $2.99.
Frank’s RedHot Diablo Chicken Nacho Fries features slow-roasted chicken and nacho cheese sauce for $4.99.
Crispy Chicken Strips with Spicy Ranch costs $6.99. The sauce can be upgraded to Frank’s RedHot Diablo.
ALSO SEE: Taco Bell is bringing two Live Más Cafés to Southern California
Taco Bell has been flirting with crispy chicken strips and nuggets throughout 2025 as it faces a looming goal to make crispy chicken a permanent part of its menu in 2026. Slow-roasted chicken is currently featured in tacos, burritos and quesadillas on the chain’s Cantina Chicken Menu.
The last time Taco Bell brought back crispy chicken was in July, when it introduced Sweet Chipotle BBQ Sauce.
Taco Bell’s previous limited time offer, called the Decades Y2K menu, is running its course but most items are available while supplies last, which varies by location according to representatives, and were still listed on the chain’s website. A spot check of Southern California locations showed the Caramel Apple Empanada is no longer being offered at many of them.
Information: tacobell.com
