If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than these Air Fryer Chicken Street Tacos! They’re packed with juicy, tender chicken, fresh toppings, and a perfect balance of seasonings, all served in soft corn tortillas. The air fryer makes cooking the chicken a breeze while keeping it deliciously crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you’re serving them for Taco Tuesday or enjoying a weeknight dinner, these tacos will soon become a family favorite.
The best part? You can customize them with your favorite toppings and sauces, so you can make them as mild or spicy as you like. The air fryer not only makes this recipe faster, but it also adds a little extra crispiness to the chicken, giving it that perfect street taco feel without the need for frying. Trust me, once you try these tacos, you’ll never want to go back to traditional cooking methods!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken Breasts: The chicken breasts are the star of this recipe, and they cook perfectly in the air fryer. They’re lean and juicy, giving the tacos a delicious, tender bite.
Taco Seasoning: A good taco seasoning mix adds the perfect blend of flavors. Whether store-bought or homemade, this seasoning is key to giving the chicken that signature taco taste.
Olive Oil: A little olive oil helps coat the chicken before air frying, ensuring it gets crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside.
Corn Tortillas: Soft corn tortillas are the ideal base for these tacos, offering the perfect texture and flavor to complement the chicken and toppings.
Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color to the tacos, balancing out the richness of the chicken.
Lime: Lime juice is a must for squeezing over the top of your tacos, adding a tangy brightness that enhances the flavors.
Toppings (Optional): You can add shredded lettuce, diced onions, salsa, or avocado for extra crunch and flavor!
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced onions, salsa, avocado
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Street Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First, rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Then, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken, pressing it gently to adhere. You can let the chicken marinate for 10-15 minutes to enhance the flavor, but it’s not necessary.
Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t overlapping. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
While the chicken is cooking, warm your corn tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for about 20-30 seconds until soft.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Now it’s time to assemble the tacos! Take each warm tortilla and add a generous amount of shredded chicken. Top with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and any other toppings of your choice, like shredded lettuce or diced onions.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Marinate the Chicken: If you have time, marinate the chicken in the seasoning and olive oil for 30 minutes to an hour. This will help the flavors soak into the meat even more.
- Use Thin Tortillas: For the best texture, use soft, thin corn tortillas that can hold all the chicken and toppings without falling apart.
- Check the Chicken’s Temperature: Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Customize the Toppings: These tacos are incredibly versatile! Add your favorite salsa, sliced avocado, or even a drizzle of sour cream to personalize the flavor.
- Make it Spicy: If you love heat, feel free to sprinkle some chili powder, cayenne pepper, or jalapeño slices on top for an extra kick.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe! They’re a bit juicier than breasts and will add more flavor, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat the chicken in the air fryer or on the stove before assembling the tacos.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken for later use?
Yes! Shredded chicken freezes well. Simply store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw and reheat.
What can I serve with these tacos?
These tacos pair wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a simple salad. For drinks, consider serving a refreshing iced tea, margarita, or a cold beer.