These Easy Crispy Tacos Dorados are a fun and tasty treat! Crunchy tortillas are filled with flavorful ingredients like chicken or beef, then fried until golden brown. Yum!
I love serving these with fresh toppings like guacamole and salsa. They’re great for a quick dinner or a fun party snack! You just can’t resist that crispiness! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are traditional for Tacos Dorados. You could substitute with flour tortillas if preferred, but they won’t be as crispy. Just keep in mind they can be a bit thicker!
Shredded Chicken: I love using cooked shredded chicken because it’s simple. Feel free to swap in ground beef, cooked potatoes, or even black beans for a vegetarian option. Each filling gives a unique twist!
Cotija Cheese: Cotija adds a nice salty touch. If you can’t find Cotija, queso fresco or feta cheese can work well as alternatives. Both provide a creamy texture.
Mexican Crema: It’s a must for drizzling! You can use sour cream if you prefer, or even Greek yogurt for a healthier choice. Just add a squeeze of lime for extra flavor!
How Do I Fry Tacos Perfectly Without Making a Mess?
Frying can be tricky, but here are some tips to keep it neat and to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the tacos. You can test it by dropping a small tortilla piece into the oil; it should sizzle.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to keep the temperature up and to ensure crispy tacos.
- Once golden brown, use a slotted spoon to transfer the tacos to a plate lined with paper towels for draining excess oil.
Following these tips will help you achieve the tastiest and crispiest Tacos Dorados! Enjoy the crunchy goodness! 🌮
Easy Crispy Tacos Dorados
Ingredients:
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (or beef/potatoes/beans for variation)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 cups)
- 2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or queso fresco)
- Salsa or hot sauce, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking, making a total of about 30 minutes to have these tasty tacos on your plate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken with ground cumin, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir well and adjust the seasoning according to your taste. It should be flavorful and ready to make those tacos delicious!
2. Warm the Tortillas:
To make the tortillas nice and pliable, warm them up a little. You can do this by placing them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side or microwaving them for a few seconds wrapped in a damp towel. This step will help prevent the tortillas from cracking when folded.
3. Assemble the Tacos:
Take a warm tortilla and place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture in the center. Gently fold the tortilla in half, pressing the edges to seal the filling inside. If you like, you can use a toothpick to hold it together while frying.
4. Fry the Tacos:
In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot but not smoking—around 350°F. You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of tortilla; if it sizzles, it’s ready! Carefully place the tacos seam-side down in the oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Let Them Drain:
Once crispy, remove the tacos from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will keep them crunchy!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
On a serving plate, arrange a bed of shredded iceberg lettuce. Place the crispy tacos on top, and drizzle generously with Mexican crema or sour cream. Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese over the tacos, add a dollop of salsa or hot sauce, and finish with fresh cilantro leaves for garnish.
Serve immediately while they’re still warm and crispy. Enjoy your homemade, crunchy Tacos Dorados!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Fillings for the Tacos?
Absolutely! While shredded chicken is a favorite, you can easily use ground beef, cooked potatoes, or even black beans for a vegetarian option. Get creative with your fillings!
How Do I Keep My Tacos from Getting Soggy?
To prevent sogginess, make sure the tacos are fried until they are golden brown and crispy. Additionally, serve them immediately after frying and avoid adding toppings until you’re ready to eat them.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make Tacos Dorados in Advance?
For the best results, it’s best to fry them fresh. However, you can prepare the filling and assemble the tacos ahead of time, then fry them just before serving!
