Fast Times

On the Menu: Taco Cabana's Burrito vs. Bowl

Recently, I received some kind words from a reader regarding my favorite fast food chicken dish, Taco Cabana's #4 combo (stewed chicken burrito, with chips and queso).

jacobG wrote:

"Kevin, for the love of God, please find another subject to write about. You clearly know absolutely nothing about food. That burrito was the most disgusting piece of crap I have ever tried. HP editors, are you really this hard-up? Save us from this garbage, and Kevin, go learn something about decent food."

Don't get me wrong, I love my #4. I've been a loyal follower for quite some time. But maybe, just maybe, jacobG was right.

Well, at least a little right. I still disagree that Taco Cabana's stewed chicken burrito is disgusting. But he is right that I need to find another subject to write about. And I did. Introducing Taco Cabana's new Taco400 bowl -- with stewed chicken!

Would it measure up? Let's first take a look at the cold, hard facts. The caloric intake of my #4 combo was a whopping 1040 calories. My God! The Taco400 bowl with stewed chicken -- try 330 calories. These new bowls come with a variety of ingredients, but all total under 400 calories. My bowl of choice included black beans, lettuce, shredded cheese, pico de gallo, salsa roja and chicken.

I was initially concerned about the product being dry. This was not the case. The juices from the black beans, salsa, and chicken provided all the moisture and flavor this salad needed. For $5, this was a perfect lunch. It was delicious, healthy and inexpensive.

Sorry, #4, your days are numbered.

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Kevin Shalin
Contact: Kevin Shalin