Okay, friends, let’s talk Chicken Tostadas! This is one of those recipes that just screams “comfort food” at my house. I swear, even on the busiest weeknights, throwing these together makes everyone happy. It’s kind of like a deconstructed taco salad, but with a satisfying crunch from the perfectly baked (or fried, if you’re feeling extra) tostada shells. Think of it as the love child of a taco and a pizza – all the deliciousness, none of the fuss. Honestly, these chicken tostadas recipe is a lifesaver. The first time I made them, I was blown away by how much flavor could be packed into something so simple!
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
What is chicken tostadas?
So, what exactly *are* Chicken Tostadas? They’re essentially crispy, flat tortillas topped with, you guessed it, shredded chicken and a whole bunch of your favorite taco fixings. Think of it as an open-faced taco on a crispy base. The word “tostada” itself comes from the Spanish word “tostar,” which means “to toast.” We’re toasting (or frying) the tortillas until they are golden brown and super crunchy! Chicken tostadas are a staple in many Mexican and Southwestern cuisines, and every family seems to have their own spin on them. It’s essentially a blank canvas for your favorite flavors. The beauty of the chicken tostadas recipe is that you can customize it to your heart’s content.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Okay, where do I even begin? This chicken tostadas recipe has stolen my heart, and I have a feeling it’ll win you over, too. Let me break down the reasons why you *need* to make this:
- Flavor explosion: What We’re talking juicy, seasoned chicken, creamy refried beans, crisp lettuce, tangy salsa, and melty cheese – all on one crunchy tostada. The combination of textures and flavors is just incredible. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices that give it a slight kick, but you can easily adjust the heat level to your liking.
- Crazy easy:Is this one of those recipes that can be made in a few minutes? Pre-cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken is my go-to! What are the steps to make a tostadas? If you’re short on time, you can even prep the ingredients ahead of time and just assemble the recipe. When you’re ready to eat tostadas are great.
- Budget friendly Chicken tostadas are a great way to stretch your grocery budget. You can use leftover chicken, canned beans, and whatever veggies you have on hand. Plus, tortillas are super cheap! The cost per serving is surprisingly low, making this a great option for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
- Totally versatile:Why don’t you like chicken? Use ground beef, shredded pork, or even black beans. What are some ways to add veggies to your diet? I often add a sprinkle of cotija cheese to my salad. It’s very flavorful. Can you substitute refried beans for black beans?
What I love about this chicken tostadas recipe is that it’s a crowd-pleaser. I’ve made it for family gatherings, potlucks and even just a casual weeknight dinner, and it’s been delicious.
How do I make chicken tostadas?
Quick Overview
Making Chicken Tostadas is seriously easier than ordering takeout. You basically cook (or shred) your chicken, prep your toppings, and then assemble everything on crispy tostada shells. The best part? You can totally customize it to your liking. We’ll cover the basic steps and the best way to make the perfect chicken tostadas recipe. If you’re using a rotisserie chicken, this meal is on the table in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded)
1 tbsp olive oil. 1 cup
1 tsp chili powder 1 Tbs
1/2 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder. 1/4 cup salt
Salt and pepper to taste.
A splash of chicken broth (optional, if chicken seems dry) is good.
For the Tostadas:
12 corn tortillas
Vegetable oil for frying (or use oven for baking – see instructions below)
For the Toppings: What is
How many cans of refried beans are there?
What is shredded lettuce
Diced tomatoes
What is your favorite cheese blend? Shredded cheddar cheese?
Salsa
Sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Guacamole
Pickled jalapeos
What are the steps for
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
If you’re cooking chicken breasts, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through. Let cool slightly, then shred with two forks. If the chicken seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and shred it.
Step 2: Prepare the Tostada Shells (Baked)
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush both sides of the corn tortillas with vegetable oil. Place tortillas in a single layer on baking sheets. Bake for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily. If you like a little more flavor, sprinkle the tortillas with a bit of salt or chili powder before baking.
Step 3: Prepare the Tostada Shells (Fried – optional)
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add one tortilla at a time. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove from skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy tortillas.
Step 4: Warm the Refried Beans
In a small saucepan, heat refried beans over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Can you microwave beans for a few minutes? Add a tablespoon of salsa or chili powder to the beans while heating.
Step 5: Assemble the Tostadas
Spread a thin layer of refried beans on each tostada shell. Top with shredded chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, salsa, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). What are the best toppings for guacamole and jalapeos? I sometimes add black olives, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the chicken tostadas immediately. They’re best enjoyed fresh, while the tostada shells are still crispy. If you’re making them for a party, you can set up a tostada bar with all the ingredients and let your guests assemble their own.
What are some good ways to serve it with?
Chicken Tostadas are a perfect meal on their own, but if you’re looking to make it an all-in-one meal, this is the recipe for you. What are some good ideas for your dinner?
- Mexican Rice:What are some good side dishes to serve with tostadas?
- Black Bean Salad: A refreshing and flavorful salad with corn, bell peppers, and a lime vinaigrette.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and chili powder.
- Chips and Guacamole: Can’t go wrong with this classic appetizer!
- Margaritas or Mexican Beer: A perfect complement to the flavors of the tostadas.
I also love serving these with a simple side salad. A mix of greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a great way to add some extra veggies to your meal. One of my favorite things to do is to make a big batch of tostadas and set up a toppings bar. It’s a fun and interactive way to let everyone customize their own tostadas.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Tostadas Recipe
Okay, here are some insider tips I’ve learned over the years for making the *best* Chicken Tostadas ever:
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Dry chicken is the enemy of delicious tostadas. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C). If using a rotisserie chicken, shred it while it’s still warm to prevent it from drying out.
- Crispy tostada shells are key: Whether you bake or fry the tortillas, make sure they’re nice and crispy. Soggy tostadas are no fun! If baking, flip the tortillas halfway through to ensure even browning. If frying, don’t overcrowd the skillet.
- Warm the refried beans: Cold refried beans can make the tostadas feel a bit heavy. Warming them up makes them creamier and more flavorful.
- Don’t overload the tostadas: It’s tempting to pile on all the toppings, but too many toppings can make the tostadas difficult to eat. Start with a thin layer of refried beans and then add the other toppings in moderation.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the tostadas will taste. Use fresh, ripe tomatoes, good-quality cheese, and flavorful salsa.
- Taste as you go: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you like a little more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken or use a spicier salsa.
- Get creative with the toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings. Corn, black olives, pickled onions, cotija cheese, and avocado crema are all great additions.
I always test the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of tortilla in the oil. If it sizzles and turns golden brown quickly, the oil is ready.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Chicken Tostadas are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Unassembled Ingredients: Store the cooked chicken, toppings, and tortillas separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Assembled Tostadas: Unfortunately, assembled tostadas don’t store well, as the tortillas will become soggy. It’s best to assemble them just before serving.
Reheating the Chicken: You can reheat the chicken in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. If reheating in the microwave, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Chicken Tostadas recipe a try! It’s one of those dishes that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer. It’s customizable, budget-friendly, and oh-so-delicious. And if you are a big fan of mexican food you may like our other taco and burrito recipes. If you make this chicken tostadas recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what toppings you used. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Happy cooking!
How to Whip Up 7 Easy Tex-Mex Chicken Tostadas for a Quick Fiesta!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 7 6-inch corn tortillas Or store-bought tostada shells
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For brushing tortillas
- 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken Skin removed
- 1 15-ounce can chopped tomatoes Drained
- 1 cup red onion Finely diced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder Adjust based on spice level preference
- 1 15-ounce can black beans Drained and rinsed
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese Shredded
- Fresh cilantro For garnish
- Lime wedges For serving
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Lay the corn tortillas on a baking sheet and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
- Bake the tortillas for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they become crispy and golden. Keep an eye to avoid burning.
- In a skillet over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken, chopped tomatoes, red onion, and chili powder. Cook until heated through.
- Top each crispy tortilla with an even amount of the chicken mixture and a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
- Place the tostadas back in the oven and bake for 5-10 additional minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy!
