There are few things more satisfying than the shatteringly crisp crunch of perfectly made Tacos Dorados. These “golden tacos” are a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine, and for good reason. Filled with savory shredded chicken, seasoned beef, or creamy potatoes, then fried to a perfect golden-brown, they are the ultimate comfort food. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to create the best, most authentic tacos dorados right in your own kitchen.
Forget soggy, lackluster tacos. We’re diving deep into the techniques that guarantee an addictively crispy shell every single time. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to frying, this recipe is designed for success. We’ll cover classic frying, plus lighter air fryer and baked methods!
What Are Tacos Dorados?
Tacos Dorados are a traditional Mexican dish made from corn tortillas filled with a savory filling, rolled or folded, and then deep-fried until crisp and golden. They are typically served hot, garnished with a variety of fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, crema, crumbled cheese, and vibrant salsa. Unlike the soft street tacos you might be familiar with, the defining characteristic of tacos dorados is their incredible crunch.
Tacos Dorados vs. Flautas vs. Taquitos
While often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences. Tacos Dorados are typically made with standard-sized corn tortillas and can be either folded in half like a classic taco shell or rolled. Flautas (flutes) are almost always made with longer oval-shaped flour tortillas and are rolled into a long, thin tube. Taquitos (little tacos) are similar to flautas but are made with smaller corn tortillas.
Why You’ll Love This Tacos Dorados Recipe
- Unbeatably Crispy: We’ll share the secrets to achieving that perfect, audible crunch that won’t get soggy.
- Completely Customizable: We’re focusing on a classic shredded chicken filling, but this recipe works beautifully with ground beef, potatoes, or beans.
- Multiple Cooking Methods: Learn how to make them the traditional fried way, or try our lighter air fryer and baked versions for a healthier twist.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners, parties, or game day. You might also love these Chipotle Beef Tacos for another flavorful option.
Essential Ingredients
The beauty of tacos dorados lies in their simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need for the foundational recipe.
For the Shredded Chicken Filling:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best.
- Aromatics: Onion and garlic form the flavor base.
- Spices: Cumin, Mexican oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
For the Tacos:
- Corn Tortillas: The fresher, the better. White or yellow corn tortillas are perfect.
- Oil for Frying: A neutral oil with a high smoke point is essential, like canola, vegetable, or avocado oil.
For Serving:
- Shredded Lettuce
- Mexican Crema or Sour Cream
- Crumbled Cotija or Queso Fresco
- Your favorite salsa, like Salsa Verde or Pico de Gallo
- Sliced Avocado or Guacamole
How to Make Tacos Dorados (The Classic Fried Method)
Follow these steps for taco perfection. The key is to work efficiently and have everything prepped before you start frying.
Step 1: Prepare the Shredded Chicken Filling
Place chicken breasts, a quartered onion, and a few garlic cloves in a pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 15-20 minutes. Remove the chicken, let it cool slightly, then shred it using two forks. In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
This is the most crucial step to prevent cracking! Wrap a stack of 5-6 tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds. They should be soft and pliable. Alternatively, you can quickly heat them on a dry comal or skillet for about 15 seconds per side.
Step 3: Fill and Secure the Tacos
Lay a warm tortilla flat and place about 2 tablespoons of the shredded chicken filling in a line down the center. Roll it up tightly. Some prefer to secure the taco with a toothpick, but if you place them seam-side down in the hot oil, they usually hold their shape.
Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection
Pour about 1-2 inches of oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C). Carefully place 3-4 tacos seam-side down in the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are deep golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to transfer them to a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Love the crunch but want a lighter option? We’ve got you covered.
How to Make Tacos Dorados in the Air Fryer
Assemble the tacos as directed. Brush or spray them lightly with oil. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, seam-side down. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
How to Bake Tacos Dorados in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Assemble the tacos and place them on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet. Brushing them with oil will give you the best color and crispiness. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping once, until they are golden and crunchy.
Tips for the Crispiest Tacos Dorados
- Don’t Skip Warming the Tortillas: Cold, dry tortillas will crack the second you try to roll them.
- Use Enough Oil: For deep-frying, ensure the oil comes at least halfway up the sides of the tacos.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: If the oil is too cool, the tacos will absorb it and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they’ll burn before the inside is warm.
- Fry in Batches: Overcrowding the pan drops the oil temperature, leading to soggy tacos. Give them space!
- Drain Properly: A wire rack is superior to paper towels for draining because it allows air to circulate, preventing the bottom from steaming and getting soft.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tacos Dorados
Yes, you can fry them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. To reheat and restore their crispiness, place them on a baking sheet in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
The key is to warm your corn tortillas right before filling and rolling them. This makes them pliable and prevents cracking. You can also place them seam-side down in the hot oil, which helps them seal shut as they cook.
Classic fillings include shredded chicken, seasoned ground beef, and mashed potatoes mixed with cheese (papas con queso). Shredded beef (barbacoa) and refried beans are also delicious options.
Serve them hot, topped with shredded lettuce, Mexican crema, crumbled cotija or queso fresco, and your favorite salsa. A side of guacamole, Mexican rice, and refried beans makes it a complete meal.
The main difference is the tortilla used. Tacos dorados are typically made with standard-sized corn tortillas, while flautas are made with longer flour tortillas, resulting in a thinner, more elongated shape.
The Best Tacos Dorados Recipe
Tacos Dorados: The Ultimate Guide to Crispy Fried Tacos
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium pot, combine the chicken breasts, quartered onion, and garlic cloves. Add enough water to cover everything by an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Using two forks, shred the chicken. Discard the cooking liquid, onion, and garlic. In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with cumin, Mexican oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour about 1-2 inches of oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C).
- While the oil heats, warm the tortillas to make them pliable. Wrap a stack in damp paper towels and microwave for 30-45 seconds. Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center of a warm tortilla and roll it tightly.
- Carefully place 3-4 rolled tacos seam-side down into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are deep golden brown and crispy all over. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Using tongs, remove the tacos from the oil and let them drain on a wire rack. Serve immediately with shredded lettuce, crema, cotija cheese, and your favorite salsa.
Notes
Tip 2: For air fryer Tacos Dorados, brush with oil and cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Tip 3: The secret to non-cracking tortillas is to warm them just before filling. Don't let them cool down!
Share This Delicious Recipe!
If you loved making these crispy Tacos Dorados, don’t forget to share your creation! Tag us on social media and leave a comment below with your favorite fillings and toppings. For more delicious dinner ideas, from Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup to Cajun Steak Pasta, we’ve got you covered. Pin this recipe to your favorite board on Pinterest to save it for later!
