Cheesy Chicken Tacos (Oven or Air Fryer) Recipe

why make this recipe

This recipe gives you warm, cheesy tacos fast. You can use the oven or an air fryer. It uses simple ingredients you may already have. It makes a great weeknight meal that kids and adults enjoy.

introduction

These Cheesy Chicken Tacos (Oven or Air Fryer) Recipe are quick and tasty. The chicken gets spice and cooks fast. The cheese melts inside the tortilla for a crunchy, gooey bite. For extra flavor ideas, try the chicken marinade for the grill recipe as a guide to boost taste.

why make this recipe

You can make many tacos in one go. The air fryer saves time and the oven makes them crispy. The recipe is simple and needs few steps. It is good for busy nights and casual meals.

how to make Cheesy Chicken Tacos (Oven or Air Fryer) Recipe

1. Toss the chicken with taco seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper so each piece is covered.
2. If using an air fryer, cook the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway so pieces cook evenly.
3. If using the oven for the taco shells, assemble the tacos first with cheese and cooked chicken.
4. Bake the folded tacos at 400°F for 12–15 minutes until tortillas are crispy and cheese is melted.
5. Top the hot tacos with fresh pico de gallo and serve right away.

Ingredients :

1 pound chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces, 2 Tablespoons taco seasoning, 1 Tablespoon olive oil, Salt & pepper to taste, Flour tortillas, Shredded Mexican cheese blend, Pico de gallo for topping

Directions :

In a bowl, combine chicken with taco seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly coated., Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes or until golden and fully cooked, shaking halfway through., On half of each flour tortilla, sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese. Add some cooked chicken on top, then fold the tortilla in half., Place the folded tacos on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes or until crispy and the cheese is melted., Top with fresh pico de gallo and serve warm!

how to serve Cheesy Chicken Tacos (Oven or Air Fryer) Recipe

Serve the tacos hot. Add extra pico de gallo, sour cream, or sliced avocado if you like. A side of rice or a simple salad pairs well. Let people add toppings at the table.

how to store Cheesy Chicken Tacos (Oven or Air Fryer) Recipe

Cool leftovers to room temperature before storing. Put chicken in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store tortillas separately so they do not get soggy. Reheat chicken in the air fryer or microwave and then reassemble tacos.

tips to make Cheesy Chicken Tacos (Oven or Air Fryer) Recipe

• Cut chicken into even pieces so they cook at the same time.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; work in batches if needed.
• Use a good melting cheese for best gooey texture.
• Warm tortillas a bit before filling to prevent cracking.
• Shake or flip tacos once while baking for even crisping.

variation (if any)

• Make spicy tacos by adding a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the chicken.
• Use corn tortillas instead of flour for a gluten-free option.
• Add black beans or corn to the filling for more texture.
• Swap chicken for shrimp or beef if you want a different protein.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes. Thaw fully before cutting and seasoning. Cook until no pink remains.

Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: You can cook the chicken ahead and store it. Assemble and bake just before serving.

Q: How do I keep tacos from getting soggy?
A: Keep chicken and toppings separate. Fill and bake or fry right before eating.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: Yes. Freshly shredded melts best, but pre-shredded works well for quick prep.

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