• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Home
  • Savory Soups
  • Recipes
  • Skinny Swaps
  • About
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
Make It Skinny Please logo
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Home
  • Savory Soups
  • Recipes
  • Skinny Swaps
  • About
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • ×
    Make It Skinny Please » Recipes » Air Fryer » Air Fryer Tacos Dorado

    Published: May 3, 2023 by Toni Dash · 11 Comments

    Air Fryer Tacos Dorado

    Weight Watchers Points1
    Calories: 94kcal
    Carbs: 12g
    Protein: 8g
    Fats: 2g
    Jump to Recipe

    This post may include affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    air fryer tacos dorair fryer tacos dorado with toppingsado with toppings.

    Air Fryer Tacos Dorado are a delicious and healthier twist on the traditional crispy taco. By using an air fryer instead of deep-frying, you can achieve the same crispy shell and golden brown color without all the added oil!  Perfect for a lower calorie diet.

    air fryer tacos dorair fryer tacos dorado with toppingsado with toppings.
    WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
    Enter your email below and we’ll send the recipe straight to your inbox (and more recipes every week)!
    Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
    Loading
    air fryer tacos dorair fryer tacos dorado with toppingsado with toppings.

    If you are a fan of Mexican cuisine you'll love this authentic recipe for rolled chicken tacos using an air fryer! It's a family favorite and a fun twist from traditional tacos. Great for Taco Tuesday (any taco night), Cinco de Mayo and any other day.

    Top your chicken tacos with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, salsa, and light sour cream for a traditional and flavorful finish. With the air fryer, you can enjoy the crispy goodness of tacos dorado in a healthier, skinnier and more convenient way.

    Jump to:
    • What makes this skinny?
    • What are Tacos Dorado?
    • Ingredients Notes
    • Topping Ideas
    • How to Make it
    • Variations
    • EXPERT TIP
    • How to Store and Freeze
    • FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
    • More recipes you'll love!
    • Recipe

    What makes this skinny?

    • Air frying instead of deep frying. The benefit of air frying is getting the crispy end result as in deep frying but without the calories from excess oil.
    • Corn tortillas vs. flour tortillas. Corn tortillas are traditional for these rolled chicken tacos and fewer calories than flour.
    • Using lean chicken breasts filling. The filling of these Tacos Dorado is flavored shredded chicken. All other ingredients are added on top.
    • Easy to control toppings. You are in charge of adding toppings which makes it easier to control rather than having them adding inside these rolled chicken tacos. This is especially good with higher calorie ingredients like shredded cheese.

    What are Tacos Dorado?

    Tacos dorados, also known as crispy tacos or fried tacos, are made by filling a corn tortilla with meat, cheese, or beans, and then rolling it tightly and deep-frying until it is crispy and golden brown. The taco is then topped with lettuce, cheese, and salsa. 

    With this recipe we've used the air fryer to keep the calories low and still get the crispy outsides.

    Difference between Tacos Dorado and Taquitos or Flautas

    These three Mexican food favorites are similar in many ways in the fillings and that they are traditionally rolled and fried. A key difference with Tacos Dorado is adding the toppings on the outside when serving. 

    Tacos dorados are typically smaller than flautas and have a cylindrical shape.  Taquitos are typically larger than tacos dorados and have a more tubular shape, resembling a cigar or a small burrito.

    Ingredients Notes

    air fryer tacos dorado labelled ingredients

    Boneless skinless chicken breasts. You'll need to start with 1 pound raw boneless chicken breasts to cook and shred to yield 2 cups shredded chicken. We share two ways to make it in the instructions below.

    Red onion. One quarter of a medium onion is added to the cooking liquid for the chicken to give more flavor.

    Corn tortillas. You'll need 14 corn tortillas medium size (around 5-inches diameter). They can be yellow corn or white corn tortillas. The tortillas should be around 50 calories per tortilla.

    Cumin, taco seasoning or Mexican seasoning. These optional ingredients can be stirred into the shredded chicken for more flavor before rolling the chicken tacos.

    Topping Ideas

    Here are some of the most common toppings for tacos dorados:

    1. Shredded lettuce: This is a classic topping for tacos dorados that adds a fresh and crispy texture.
    2. Diced tomatoes: Tomatoes add a bright and juicy flavor to the taco.
    3. Grated cheese: A sprinkle of grated cheese, such as queso fresco (366 calories per cup) or shredded reduced-fat cheddar or Mexican blend (360 per cup), adds a creamy and salty flavor.
    4. Salsa: Salsa is a common topping for tacos dorados that can be mild or spicy, depending on your preference. Our Mango Pico de Gallo and Pineapple Pico de Gallo are delicious!
    5. Guacamole: A dollop of guacamole adds a rich and creamy texture to the taco. Sliced avocado works well too.
    6. Light sour cream: Sour cream adds a tangy and cool flavor.
    7. Chopped red onions: Onions add a crunchy and pungent flavor.
    8. Cilantro: Fresh cilantro, chopped or torn, adds a bright and herbaceous flavor.

    How to Make it

    STEP 1. Cook the chicken

    Boiling on the stove top

    In a medium saucepan, combine the onion and water (photo 1). Bring to a boil water to boil on medium-high heat.

    Add the chicken breasts and cook for 12-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees measured with an instant read thermometer (photo 2). Do not overcook to avoid the chicken becoming tough.

    Using an Instant Pot

    • Combine the water, onion and chicken breasts in the Instant Pot.
    • Close the lid, set the valve to SEALING. Select MANUAL HIGH PRESSURE and adjust the time to 10 minutes.
    • After the cooking completes, allow a Natural Release for 10 minutes or until the pressure is released (it may be shorter than 10 minutes).
    air fryer tacos dorado recipe steps 1-4.

    STEP 2. Shred the chicken

    Method 1 (our favorite method): add the cooked chicken to the bowl of a stand mixer with paddle attachment. Process for 30 seconds or until chicken is shredded (do not shred it to be overly fine consistency).

    Method 2: use two forks (photo 3). This method is best done after allowing the chicken to cool slightly.

    Season the chicken (optional): Add some salt, black pepper, cumin, taco seasoning, or Mexican seasoning to the shredded chicken. Stir to fully combine.

    STEP 3. Preheat the air fryer

    Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees.

    STEP 4. Warm the tortillas

    Place the tortillas between two damp paper towels and heat them in the microwave for 2 minutes (photo 4). NOTE: this allows the corn tortillas to be rolled without breaking them.

    air fryer tacos dorado recipe steps 5-8

    STEP 5. Roll the Tacos Dorado

    Place about 2 tablespoons of the shredded chicken on one side of each tortilla (photo 5) leaving a space at the edge of the tortilla so the chicken doesn't squeeze out. Roll tightly (photo 6).

    STEP 6. Air Fry

    Gently place the rolled chicken tacos seam side facing down, in the air fryer basket in a single layer with some space in between (photo 7). Depending on the size of your air fryer you may need to cook in batches.

    Spray all the rolled tacos with olive oil spray or nonstick cooking spray and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, until golden brown (photo 8). Repeat for remaining tacos.

    Serve golden tacos with desired toppings!

    air fryer tacos dorado on white platter with sauces.

    Variations

    • Use our Instant Pot Shredded Mexican Chicken. This easy recipe cooks the chicken with salsa for great flavor.
    • Use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken. As a time saver and to use up leftovers you can still make the best tacos without making the chicken from scratch.
    • Use chicken broth or chicken stock for cooking. To add more flavor, substitute chicken broth for water when cooking the chicken (either method).

    EXPERT TIP

    Air fryer cooking. Every brand, size and type of air fryer cooks slightly differently. Be sure to monitor during cooking and and adjust time as needed. This is true for any air fryer recipes.

    air fryer tacos dorado on white platter.

    How to Store and Freeze

    These best enjoyed right after cooking. To store: allow the chicken tacos to fully cool before adding to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Pop back into the air fryer to crisp up before serving.

    HOW TO FREEZE:

    • Place cooled taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place in the freezer for 1-2 hours until frozen.
    • Place in a plastic freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. NOTE: flash freezing first prevents them from sticking together in the bag so any amount can be used.
    • Defrost in refrigerator or place straight into the air fryer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes at 375 F degrees.

    FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

    How can I prevent the tortillas from cracking when rolling?

    The step of warming the tortillas with a damp paper towel in the microwave before starting is key. This makes them soft corn tortillas, warm and pliable. If you skip this step they will crack.

    Can I cook these in the oven?

    Yes! Assemble the tacos, and place on a rimmed baking tray, seam side down with space between them. Spritz with cooking spray and cook at 375 degrees for 12-15 minutes or until the outsides are crispy.

    More recipes you'll love!

    • egg white breakfast wraps from overhead.
      Best Egg White Breakfast Wraps recipe (low carb)
    • egg white wraps with text.
      Egg White Wraps (low calorie, low carb tortillas)
    • cranberry wine spritzer in glass.
      Cranberry Ginger Spritzer (easy holiday cocktail)
    • air fryer butternut squash in white bowl.
      Easy Air Fryer Butternut Squash recipe

    Did you make it? Please RATE THE RECIPE below!

    Please SUBSCRIBE and FOLLOW ME on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM and PINTEREST

    Recipe

    air fryer tacos dorado on white platter crop

    Air Fryer Tacos Dorado

    Weight Watchers Points1
    Click to track Weight Watchers Points
    Air fryer tacos dorado are a crispy and delicious twist on traditional tacos. Using an air fryer instead of deep-frying makes them lower calorie without sacrificing the golden brown texture and satisfying crunch. Piled high with delicious toppings makes them a favorite.
    5 from 119 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Main Course
    Cuisine: Mexican
    Diet: Gluten Free, Low Calorie
    Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 23 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 38 minutes minutes
    Servings: 14 tacos
    Calories: 94kcal
    Author: Toni Dash
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Equipment

    air fryer

    Ingredients

    • ¼ medium red onion peeled
    • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
    • 14 medium corn tortillas around 5-inches diameter. They can be yellow corn or white corn tortillas. The tortillas should be around 50 calories per tortilla.
    • Cumin taco seasoning or Mexican seasoning. These optional ingredients can be stirred into the shredded chicken for more flavor before rolling the chicken tacos.

    Topping ideas

    • shredded lettuce
    • diced tomatoes
    • grated cheese such as queso fresco (366 calories per cup) or shredded reduced-fat cheddar or Mexican blend (360 per cup)
    • salsa
    • guacamole or sliced avocado
    • light sour cream
    • chopped red onions
    • fresh cilantro chopped or torn

    Instructions

    Cooking the chicken (2 options)

    • Stove Top: In a medium saucepan, combine the onion and water (enough to submerge the chicken). Bring to a boil water to boil on medium-high heat.
      Add the chicken breasts and cook for 12-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees measured with an instant read thermometer. Do not overcook to avoid the chicken becoming tough.
      ¼ medium red onion, 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
    • Instant Pot: Combine 1 cup water (for a 6 quart Instant Pot; 1 ½ cups for an 8 quart), onion and chicken breasts in the Instant Pot.
      Close the lid, set the valve to SEALING. Select MANUAL HIGH PRESSURE and adjust the time to 10 minutes.
    • After the cooking completes, allow a Natural Release for 10 minutes or until the pressure is released (it may be shorter than 10 minutes).

    Shred the chicken (2 method options)

    • Method 1 (our favorite method): add the cooked chicken to the bowl of a stand mixer with paddle attachment. Process for 30 seconds or until chicken is shredded (do not shred it to be overly fine consistency).
    • Method 2: use two forks to shred the chicken. This method is best done after allowing the chicken to cool slightly.
    • Optional seasoning: Add some salt, black pepper, cumin, taco seasoning, or Mexican seasoning to the shredded chicken. Stir to fully combine.
    • Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees.
    • Place the tortillas between two damp paper towels and heat them in the microwave for 2 minutes (photo ). NOTE: this allows the corn tortillas to be rolled without breaking them.
      14 medium corn tortillas
    • Place about 2 tablespoons of the shredded chicken on one side of each tortilla leaving a space at the edge of the tortilla so the chicken doesn't squeeze out. Roll tightly.
    • Gently place the rolled chicken tacos seam side facing down, in the air fryer basket in a single layer with some space in between. Depending on the size of your air fryer you may need to cook in batches.
    • Spray all the rolled tacos with olive oil spray or nonstick cooking spray and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, until golden brown. Repeat for remaining tacos.
    • Serve golden tacos with desired toppings!
      shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, salsa, guacamole or sliced avocado, light sour cream, chopped red onions, fresh cilantro

    Notes

    Nutrition facts do not include toppings as those are optional.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 94kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Trans Fat: 0.004g | Cholesterol: 21mg | Sodium: 49mg | Potassium: 171mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 10IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 23mg | Iron: 0.4mg
    air fryer tacos dorair fryer tacos dorado with toppingsado with toppings.
    WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
    Enter your email below and we’ll send the recipe straight to your inbox (and more recipes every week)!
    Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
    Loading
    Tried this recipe? Please share it!Mention @MakeItSkinnyPlease or tag #MakeItSkinnyPlease!
    « Pineapple Pico de Gallo
    Air Fryer Pizza Roll Ups »

    ABOUT THE AUTHOR

    TONI DASH
    Toni Dash head shot

    Toni Dash, is a Certified Nutritional Coach and certified Weight Loss Specialist, writer/blogger, photographer, chief recipe developer and creator of Make It Skinny Please. She has been developing easy to make, well-tested recipes since 2010. Her slimmed down recipes using real food ingredients bring excitement to the dining table and never taste like 'diet food'. Toni has been featured in numerous publications and on culinary websites for her creative, delicious recipes and travel features. For more details, check out her About page.

    Free Email Course

    AWESOME SKINNY TIPS & SWAPS
    Want to slim down your favorite recipes?
    These SECRETS do that and so much more!

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      5 from 119 votes (108 ratings without comment)

      Leave a Reply Cancel reply

      Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

      Recipe Rating




    1. Mel says

      April 16, 2024 at 12:15 pm

      5 stars
      I love that these are made in the air fryer! Makes for such a simple and easy clean up! They were delicious!

      Reply
    2. KC says

      April 16, 2024 at 11:53 am

      5 stars
      This was a hit for taco night, everyone asked for seconds! Simple ingredients and customizable. Love it!

      Reply
    3. Kristyn says

      April 16, 2024 at 8:43 am

      5 stars
      The air fryer makes these tacos so crisp!! We love tacos at our house & we're excited to try these with different meats!

      Reply
    4. Melissa says

      May 04, 2023 at 4:39 pm

      5 stars
      Crispy and delicious - easy to make too!

      Reply
    5. Michael says

      May 03, 2023 at 1:07 pm

      5 stars
      We had an early Cinco de Mayo party and I made these and EVERYONE raved. So good and so easy! I'm going to incorporate these into our family dinner schedule.

      Reply
    6. Andie says

      May 03, 2023 at 11:58 am

      5 stars
      These were so tasty! It was such a delicious quick, easy dinner; all my kids loved them, which is a huge win in my book!

      Reply
    7. Tara says

      May 03, 2023 at 8:20 am

      5 stars
      Oh yum! Such a wonderful use of the air fryer. I love the crispy texture of these tacos dorado.

      Reply
    8. Erika says

      May 03, 2023 at 8:19 am

      5 stars
      Loved this. Made it last night. It's simple and so fun to add loads of fresh toppings.

      Reply
    9. Kate says

      May 03, 2023 at 7:59 am

      5 stars
      Such a great idea to make these crispy rolled tacos in the air fryer!

      Reply
    10. Lily says

      May 03, 2023 at 7:52 am

      5 stars
      These are excellent for meal prep and easy to reheat. I bought a few different hot sauce variations from the store (habanero, chipotle hot sauce, and chalula sauce). Tasted great!

      Reply
    11. Sandhya S says

      May 03, 2023 at 7:28 am

      5 stars
      Taco dorados were simply amazing! Perfectly cooked in the air fryer and my family loved it.

      Reply

    Primary Sidebar

    Picture of Toni

    Welcome! I’m Toni. I'm a Certified Nutrition Coach and NASM certified Weight Loss Specialist. I'm excited to share Classic Recipes made more calorie friendly using real food!

    More about me →

    MISP Skinny Swaps Holiday Edition.

    Savory Soups

    • white bowl of lemon chicken rice soup. Lemon Chicken Rice Soup
    • vegetable cabbage soup in a white bowl. Cabbage Vegetable Soup
    • homemade tomato sweet corn soup. Homemade Tomato and Sweet Corn Soup
    • lentil mushroom stew with title Lentil and Mushroom Stew recipe
    • low calorie vegetable noodle soup in a pot with title overlay Low Calorie Vegetable Soup with Zoodles
    • gnocchi vegetable soup overhead in white bowl. Vegetable Gnocchi Soup
    Salad recipes cheat sheet image RS

    TRENDING RIGHT NOW

    • air fryer poached eggs close up Air Fryer Poached Eggs
    • instant pot mexican shredded chicken in bowl Instant Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken
    • Instant Pot Turkey Breast roast title overlay Instant Pot Boneless Turkey Breast Roast recipe
    • air fryer miso salmon with vegetables on plate Air Fryer Miso Salmon and Vegetables
    • instant pot popcorn in bowl with instant pot Perfect Instant Pot Popcorn
    • Skinny Charcuterie Board with title overlay How to make a Skinny Easy Charcuterie Board

    Footer

    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Pinterest
    • Instagram

    Contact | About | Privacy Policy | Disclosure Policy | Accessibility Statement | Cookie Policy


    SIGN ME UP to get FREE recipes directly to my inbox!


    Copyright © 2021-2024 All Rights Reserved

    Make It Skinny Please is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC associates program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required

    Recipe Ratings without Comment

    Something went wrong. Please try again.