I’ve always loved the way tacos dorados bring together crispiness and comfort in every bite. Growing up, they were a staple at family gatherings—everyone had their own way of filling them, and no two batches ever tasted exactly the same. Now that I make them in the air fryer, I get that golden crunch without all the mess (and extra oil) from deep-frying. It’s a game-changer in my kitchen.
When I make these, I love how versatile they are. You can fill them with shredded chicken, beef, or even beans for a vegetarian version. The air fryer keeps them crunchy on the outside while the filling stays warm and delicious on the inside. Add your favorite toppings—like shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa, or guacamole—and you’ve got a plate that feels festive without needing a special occasion.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Corn Tortillas: These are the base of the tacos dorados. Their slightly chewy texture crisps up beautifully in the air fryer, creating the signature golden shell. They also add that authentic flavor you just can’t get from flour tortillas.
Shredded Chicken (or Beef): The filling is flexible, but shredded chicken is one of the most traditional and flavorful options. It absorbs spices and seasonings well, making each bite savory and satisfying. You can also swap in shredded beef, pork, or beans for variety.
Cheese: Adding cheese to the filling or as a topping gives these tacos a creamy, melty touch that balances the crunch of the shell. Queso fresco, cotija, or even shredded cheddar all work depending on your preference.
Cooking Oil Spray: A light mist of oil helps the tortillas turn golden and crispy in the air fryer. It’s the secret to achieving that fried texture without deep frying.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a little cumin elevate the flavor of your filling. Simple seasonings go a long way in making the tacos taste authentic.
Toppings (Lettuce, Tomato, Sour Cream, Salsa, Guacamole): These fresh and creamy toppings bring balance to the crispy tacos. They also let everyone at the table customize their plate to their own taste.
Ingredients List
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (or beef)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (queso fresco, cotija, or cheddar)
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil spray
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 tomato, diced
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup salsa
- ½ cup guacamole
How to Make Air Fryer Tacos Dorados
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until the seasoning is evenly distributed and the meat is well coated.
Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
Heat the tortillas briefly in a skillet or microwave until they’re pliable. This prevents them from cracking when you roll them with the filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Tacos
Place about 2 tablespoons of the seasoned filling in the center of each tortilla, sprinkle in a little cheese, then roll tightly. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
Step 4: Air Fry the Tacos
Lightly spray the rolled tortillas with cooking oil. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, seam-side down. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Remove the tacos from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Then top with shredded lettuce, tomato, sour cream, salsa, and guacamole before serving.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Warm the tortillas before rolling to avoid cracks.
- Don’t overfill the tacos—too much filling will cause them to open while cooking.
- Use toothpicks to keep the tacos closed if they won’t stay rolled.
- Avoid crowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle the tacos with a bit of chili powder or paprika before air frying.
- These tacos reheat well in the air fryer—just cook for 2–3 minutes to bring back the crunch.
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Corn tortillas are traditional and give the best crunch, but flour tortillas can be used if that’s what you have. Just expect a softer texture.
What protein works best for tacos dorados?
Shredded chicken is the most popular, but beef, pork, or even mashed beans make excellent fillings.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to keep them crispy.
Do I need to flip the tacos in the air fryer?
Yes, flipping them halfway ensures they crisp evenly on all sides.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can roll and fill the tacos in advance, then store them in the fridge until ready to air fry. This makes meal prep quick and easy.