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A close-up view of several golden-fried tacos dorados resting on a plate. The detailed texture of the crispy corn tortillas is visible, highlighting their perfect crunch.

Tacos Dorados: The Ultimate Guide to Crispy Fried Tacos

Learn how to make the best Tacos Dorados with this ultimate guide! This recipe delivers perfectly crispy, golden fried tacos with a savory shredded chicken filling and includes tips for baking or air frying.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

For the Shredded Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 white onion quartered
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp Mexican oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly
  • 12 corn tortillas
  • 2-3 cups vegetable or canola oil for frying
For Garnish
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Mexican crema or sour cream
  • Crumbled cotija cheese
  • Salsa of your choice

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet or Dutch Oven
  • 1 Tongs
  • 1 Wire Rack

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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).
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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 1: To make baked Tacos Dorados, preheat oven to 425°F. Brush assembled tacos with oil, place on a wire rack on a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping once.
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!