Tacos Dorados are crispy and golden treats filled with tasty ingredients. Normally, they’re stuffed with chicken or beef and then fried until they are crunchy and delicious!
You can enjoy them with your favorite toppings like lettuce, cheese, or salsa. I love how these little bites are fun to make and even more fun to eat—perfect for a gathering! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: Small corn tortillas are essential for Tacos Dorados. They hold the filling well and add a lovely corn flavor. In a pinch, you can use flour tortillas, but they won’t be as crispy or traditional.
Cooked Chicken or Beef: I recommend using shredded chicken for a lighter taco, but beef also works great for heartier flavors. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using black beans or sautéed veggies.
Vegetable Oil: While vegetable oil is standard for frying, you can use canola or peanut oil as good alternatives. Just avoid olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point.
Crema: Mexican crema is creamy and tangy, perfect for topping. If you can’t find it, sour cream is a suitable substitute. You can also mix sour cream with a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.
Queso Fresco: This crumbly cheese adds a light and fresh taste. Feta is an easy swap and still provides creaminess. You can even use shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack if you prefer more meltiness.
How Can I Fry Tacos for the Perfect Crunch?
Frying Tacos Dorados to a perfect crunch is all about the right temperature and timing. Follow these tips to make sure they turn out crispy and golden.
- Heat the oil to about 350°F (175°C) — a few drops of water should sizzle when ready.
- Fry in batches to avoid crowding the skillet, which can lower the oil’s temperature.
- Carefully flip the tacos halfway through to achieve even browning on both sides.
- Remove them promptly when golden and crispy. Let them drain on paper towels before serving.
The immediate sprinkle of salt after frying enhances flavor and keeps them crispy. Enjoy your tacos while they’re hot!
How to Make Tacos Dorados
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (or beef)
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup crema (Mexican sour cream)
- ½ cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
- ¼ cup salsa (red or green)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. You’ll spend a little time filling the tortillas and frying them until crispy, making it a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heating the Oil:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough to fry the tacos but not so hot that the oil begins to smoke. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
2. Preparing the Tacos:
While the oil is heating, it’s time to prepare the filled tortillas! Take one tortilla and place about ¼ cup of the shredded chicken in the center. Fold the tortilla in half to create a taco shape and gently press the edges together to seal it closed. Repeat this step for all the tortillas.
3. Frying the Tacos:
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the folded tacos into the skillet. Fry them in batches if your skillet can’t fit all of them at once. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure to watch them closely so they don’t burn!
4. Draining the Tacos:
After frying, carefully remove the tacos from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help soak up any excess oil. Don’t forget to sprinkle them with a little salt immediately after frying!
5. Assembling the Tacos:
Now it’s time to make them pretty! Arrange the tacos on a serving plate and top each one with some shredded lettuce, a dollop of crema, crumbled queso fresco, and a spoonful of salsa. You can mix and match these toppings to your liking!
6. Final Touches:
For a fresh flavor, sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top of the tacos before serving. Enjoy your Tacos Dorados while they are hot and crispy—delicious!
Can I Use Flour Tortillas Instead of Corn Tortillas?
Absolutely! While traditional Tacos Dorados are made with corn tortillas for that authentic flavor, flour tortillas can work in a pinch. Just be cautious while frying, as they may require less time to get crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
How Can I Make This Recipe Using Leftover Chicken?
Leftover chicken is perfect for this recipe! Simply shred it and use it as you would fresh cooked chicken. If your leftover chicken is seasoned, adjust the salt to your taste when filling the tacos to avoid them being too salty.
What If I Don’t Have Crema?
No problem! If you don’t have crema, you can use sour cream as a substitute. For a smoother texture, mix the sour cream with a little bit of lime juice and salt. You can also thin it out with a splash of milk or water if desired!
How Should I Store Leftover Tacos Dorados?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat them in an oven or an air fryer to keep them crispy. If using a microwave, heat them on a low setting to avoid sogginess.
