Hidden Valley Ranch dips Into Taco Bell's Chicken Nugget debut

The nuggets will officially hit menus on December 19.

Taco Bell Crispy Chicken Nuggets And Fries Combo
Taco Bell Crispy Chicken Nuggets And Fries Combo

Typically, when Taco Bell comes up, it’s recognized for quick Mexican-inspired options like the chalupa, quesadilla, tacos, nachos, and more. But earlier this year, at the Live Más event, the company announced a game-changer for their menu: nuggets. Fast-forward to now and the nuggets are set to debut nationwide on Thursday, accompanied by a new sauce option to celebrate.

Hidden Valley teams up with Taco Bell for nuggets debut

At the Live Más event, two sauces were teased ahead of the much-anticipated release: Bell Sauce and Jalapeño Honey Mustard. But the surprise nobody saw coming? A collaboration with Hidden Valley Ranch. The beloved ranch brand is playing a starring role in the third sauce option, Hidden Valley Fire Ranch Sauce.

If you’re a ranch enthusiast, buckle up. This new sauce is described as "harmoniously combining the flavors of Taco Bell’s most popular hot sauce with the taste of Hidden Valley Ranch." For ranch fans, it sounds like a match made in heaven.

"We're thrilled to partner with Taco Bell on the Hidden Valley Ranch Fire Ranch Sauce, combining the bold flavors of Hidden Valley Ranch with Taco Bell's signature heat," said CC Ciafone, Marketing Director at Hidden Valley Ranch in a press release. "Ranch and chicken nuggets are an iconic pairing, so it just made sense to create a ranch perfectly designed for Taco Bell's twist on nuggets.

Taco Bell Nuggets: Worth the hype?

Personally, I can’t wait to try Taco Bell’s nuggets. I love that they’re staying true to their roots with tortilla chip breading and bringing the Mexican spice through a zesty jalapeño buttermilk flavor. And with nuggets dominating fast-food menus in 2024, what better way to close out the year than with Taco Bell’s take?

As for the sauces, while ranch has never been my go-to, I’m especially excited to try the Jalapeño Honey Mustard. Because, let’s face it, sauces are to nuggets what dogs are to humans — an essential pairing.

Those interested in purchasing the nuggets can find the item at participating locations starting Dec. 19. It will be available in 5-piece and 10-piece à la carte sizes for $3.99 and $6.99, respectively. A combo, including Nacho Fries and a large fountain drink, starts at $5.99

Now we wait for Thursday, when we can indulge in Taco Bell’s nuggets and, as always, live más.