Taco Bell introduces a plant-based Naked Chicken Chalupa shell. The shell was developed by the Taco Bell Test Kitchen using a pea-protein-based proprietary blend, which is then breaded and fried. This new plant-based item is also certified vegan by the American Vegetarian Association.

Creativity and Craveability

“We’ve long been a food disruptor, and this time is no different,” said Liz Matthews, Taco Bell's Global Chief Food Innovation Officer. “We’ve seen our industry follow patterns of sameness, but we understand that consumers are looking for creativity and craveability in this space. So whether someone is craving plant-based protein or crispy chicken or gooey cheesiness, we have something that’s not only flavorful, but also uniquely Taco Bell.”

Taco Bell Is Teaming up with Beyond Meat

In addition to introducing the plant-based chalupa shell, Taco Bell is teaming up with Beyond Meat to create a new innovative plant-based protein and plans to announce details on the specific timing and market(s) in the near future.

Additional Vegan-Friendly Offerings at Taco Bell

Additional vegan-friendly offerings at Taco Bell include the black bean Crunchwrap Supreme (remove sour cream and nacho cheese sauce), the Fresco bean burrito, the veggie power menu bowl (remove cheese, sour cream, and avocado ranch sauce), crunchy or soft Fresco tacos (omit beef to make vegan), black beans and rice, as well as cinnamon twists.

Where to Find Taco Bell’s Vegan Naked Chicken Chalupa Shell

Wondering where to find Taco Bell’s vegan Naked Chicken Chalupa shell? The fast-food chain is currently testing at only one Taco Bell location at 2222 Barranca Pkwy in Irvine, CA until June 27, 2021, while supplies last. It will be priced at $3.49 plus tax, and you can make the Chalupa completely vegan by omitting the cheese and avocado ranch sauce. To stay up to date on Taco Bell’s latest plant-based innovations, check out TacoBell.com.