Air Fryer Chicken Tacos: Easiest Recipe EVER!

Air fryer chicken tacos, oh, how I love thee! These aren’t just any tacos; they’re a weeknight revolution. Using the air fryer to achieve crispy, juicy chicken in record time, these air fryer chicken tacos are inspired by those late-night cravings and my grandmother’s resourceful kitchen. They are also a fast and flavorful meal the whole family will love.

Why You Will Love This air fryer chicken tacos Recipe

Forget complicated recipes and hours of prep time. These air fryer chicken tacos are all about simplicity and maximum flavor. The chicken comes out incredibly tender and slightly crispy around the edges, perfect for nestling into warm tortillas with your favorite toppings. I love to whip these up when I’m short on time but want something satisfying and homemade. The ease of the air fryer means less mess and faster cooking.

But don’t let the simplicity fool you; these tacos are bursting with flavor. Each bite is a delicious combination of savory chicken, fresh toppings, and warm tortillas. These tacos are perfect for customizing to your own taste, too. Love spicy food? Add some hot sauce or jalapenos. Prefer a milder flavor? Stick to classic toppings like shredded cheese, lettuce, and sour cream. And if you are looking for even more variety, check out my other simple tacos recipes such as Air Fryer Beef Tacos or even Air Fryer Chicken Tacos.

Ingredients Needed for This air fryer chicken tacos Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious air fryer chicken tacos:

• For the Chicken:

* 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes * 1 tablespoon olive oil * 1 tablespoon taco seasoning * 1 teaspoon garlic powder * 1/2 teaspoon onion powder * 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika * Salt and pepper to taste

• For the Tacos:

* 12 corn or flour tortillas, warmed * Shredded lettuce, for topping * Diced tomatoes, for topping * Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite), for topping * Sour cream or Mexican crema, for topping * Salsa or hot sauce, for topping * Diced avocado, for topping

How to Make This air fryer chicken tacos Recipe

Making these air fryer chicken tacos is a breeze:

1. 1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken with olive oil, taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
2. 2. Air Fry the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Place the seasoned chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd it. You may need to cook the chicken in batches.

*Air frying in batches ensures even cooking and crispy edges.*

1. 3. Cook the Chicken: Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

*Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.*

1. 4. Warm the Tortillas: While the chicken is cooking, warm the tortillas according to package directions.
2. 5. Assemble the Tacos: Fill each warmed tortilla with the air-fried chicken. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, and diced avocado, or whatever toppings you prefer.
3. 6. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious air fryer chicken tacos!

How to Serve This air fryer chicken tacos Recipe

These air fryer chicken tacos are incredibly versatile and can be served in so many delicious ways. Garnish your tacos with generous dollops of cool sour cream, spicy salsa, or creamy guacamole.

For a complete meal, serve alongside a side of Mexican rice and black beans. Alternatively, you can serve them with a light and refreshing salad, like a cilantro lime slaw.

How to Store This air fryer chicken tacos Recipe

Refrigeration: Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store toppings separately to prevent the tacos from becoming soggy. Freezing: While you can freeze cooked chicken, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a freezer safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make This air fryer chicken tacos Recipe

• Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. A pinch of chili powder or cumin can add a unique twist.
• Success Tips: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets nice and crispy.
• Common Mistakes to Avoid: Overcooking the chicken can result in dry, tough tacos. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
• Pro Tips for Best Results: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes before air frying intensifies the flavor.

Helpful Notes for This air fryer chicken tacos Recipe

You can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor. Just be sure to trim off any excess fat. Another consideration, using store bought taco seasoning is a great time saving trick. If you would prefer a lower sodium version, try making your own.

Variation of This air fryer chicken tacos Recipe

For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for black beans or seasoned tofu. For a spicier kick, add a chopped jalapeño to the chicken before air frying or top the tacos with your favorite hot sauce. A sweet and tangy variation can be achieved by adding pineapple salsa to the tacos.

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