Chicken tostadas are a fun and crunchy meal! They start with a crispy tortilla piled high with seasoned chicken, beans, and fresh toppings like avocado and salsa.
They’re super easy to customize, so you can make them just how you like. I always let everyone build their own—it’s messy but totally delightful! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: Use small corn tortillas for that classic tostada crunch. If you’re gluten-free, look for corn tortillas labeled as such, or try using lettuce leaves for a lighter version!
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. If you prefer, poach chicken breasts or thighs for a healthier option. You can also use canned chicken in a pinch, just rinse it well before using.
Refried Beans: Traditional refried beans add creaminess. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, use black beans or refried pinto beans. You can even mash cooked chickpeas as a substitute!
Salsa: Choose between red or green salsa based on your taste. If you want to make it fresh, a quick pico de gallo using diced tomatoes and onions can be tasty too!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Crispy Tortillas?
Frying the tortillas is key to that satisfying crunch! Here’s how you can do it:
- Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Carefully add a tortilla in the hot oil; fry until golden brown and crispy, about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Use tongs to flip it over and keep an eye on the color. Remove and drain on paper towels to avoid sogginess!
By frying them individually, you ensure each one gets that delightful crunch that makes tostadas so enjoyable! 😊
How to Make Delicious Chicken Tostadas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 6 small corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil (for frying tortillas)
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 cup salsa (red or green, your choice)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes preparing the ingredients and frying the tortillas, followed by another 10-15 minutes assembling the tostadas. It’s a quick but satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Frying the Tortillas:
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add in the corn tortillas, one at a time. Fry each tortilla for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are crisp and golden brown. Once done, remove them and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
2. Adding the Refried Beans:
Take each crispy tortilla and spread about 2 tablespoons of refried beans over the top, making sure to cover it evenly for a creamy base.
3. Layering the Chicken:
Next, add a spoonful of your favorite salsa over the beans. On top of that, place about 1/3 cup of shredded chicken on each tostada. Don’t forget to season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste!
4. Finishing Touches:
Now it’s time to add the fresh toppings! Scatter the diced avocado and sliced red onion over each tostada. Follow this with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a generous amount of crumbled cotija cheese.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once all your toppings are added, serve the tostadas immediately with lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of flavor. Enjoy the crunch and savor every bite of your delicious chicken tostadas!
Can I Use Store-Bought Tortillas Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! If you prefer a quicker option, you can use store-bought tostada shells or baked tortillas. Just heat them according to the package instructions and then assemble your toppings as usual.
How Can I Store Leftover Tostadas?
For best results, store the components separately. Keep the fried tortillas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day, and refrigerate the toppings for up to 3 days. To enjoy, simply reassemble and add fresh toppings before serving!
What Can I Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, crumbled feta or queso fresco are great substitutes for a similar texture and tangy flavor. Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack can also be used for a different taste!
Can I Make These Tostadas Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply replace the shredded chicken with cooked black beans or grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. These options will keep your tostadas delicious and satisfying while catering to a vegetarian diet.