Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tacos
These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tacos are a healthier, quicker alternative to traditional tacos. The air fryer crisps up the chicken to perfection without the excess oil of deep frying, creating a golden, juicy bite that pairs beautifully with fresh toppings like avocado, salsa, and cilantro. This recipe is not only easy but also highly customizable, making it perfect for busy weeknights or taco night celebrations.
Equipment
- Air Fryer – 1 unit
- Knife (1)
- Cutting Board – 1
- Small Mixing Bowl – 1
- Tongs (1)
- Meat Thermometer (optional) – 1
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small soft taco shells flour or corn
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup salsa
- 1 ripe avocado sliced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- 1 lime cut into wedges
- Optional: sour cream jalapeños, pickled onions
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into small strips or bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and toss to coat evenly with the seasoning.
Air Fry the Chicken
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Assemble the Tacos
- Warm the taco shells in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Then, place 3-4 pieces of crispy chicken in each taco shell. Top with shredded lettuce, cheese, avocado slices, and salsa. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your tacos immediately while they’re still crispy and fresh. Enjoy with additional lime wedges and optional toppings like sour cream or jalapeños.
Notes
- You can swap out the chicken for other proteins such as shrimp or tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- If you prefer spicier tacos, add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the seasoning mix.
- To keep the chicken crispy for longer, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket and cook in batches if necessary.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer for a crispy finish.