Easy Chicken Tostadas: A Beginner’s Guide to a Flavorful Mexican Classic

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal that is both simple to prepare and packed with bold flavors. Chicken Tostadas offer exactly that—crispy corn tortillas layered with seasoned shredded chicken, creamy refried beans, and a variety of fresh toppings. Whether you are new to cooking or looking for a quick and delicious meal, this recipe is the perfect choice.

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I remember the first time I made tostadas at home. I was craving something flavorful but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. After a quick trip to the store, I had everything I needed, and within 30 minutes, I was enjoying a restaurant-quality meal right in my own home. What I love most about tostadas is their versatility—you can customize them based on what you have available, making them a great option for beginner cooks who want to experiment without fear of failure.

This recipe is beginner-friendly because it requires minimal preparation and uses basic cooking techniques. You will learn how to crisp tortillas, season shredded chicken, and assemble a well-balanced dish with fresh toppings. The tostadas come together quickly, making them an excellent choice for a busy weeknight meal.

Now, let’s get into the details of making these crispy, flavorful Chicken Tostadas.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients

For the tostadas:

• 6 corn tortillas
• Oil for frying

For the chicken:

• 2.5 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• ⅓ cup taco sauce or enchilada sauce

For the toppings:

• 1 (15-ounce) can refried beans
• ½ cup crumbled queso fresco
• 2 cups shredded lettuce
• 1 large avocado, pitted and diced (or 6 ounces guacamole)
• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
• ½ medium red onion, diced
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• 4 ounces sour cream, Greek yogurt, or Mexican crema
• Lime wedges for serving

Ingredient Alternatives and Substitutions

• Chicken Alternatives: If you prefer beef, you can substitute the shredded chicken with seasoned ground beef or shredded beef. Cook ground beef with taco seasoning or use leftover slow-cooked beef.
• Tortilla Options: If you want a healthier alternative, you can bake the tortillas instead of frying them or use whole wheat tortillas.
• Dairy-Free Option: If you are avoiding dairy, omit the queso fresco and sour cream or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Bean Variations: Black beans or pinto beans can be mashed and used in place of refried beans for a different texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Making Crispy Tostada Shells

1. Heat about an inch of oil in a small frying pan over medium-high heat. The oil should reach about 350°F. You can test if the oil is ready by dipping the edge of a tortilla in the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is hot enough.
2. Carefully place one corn tortilla into the oil. It will begin to bubble and crisp up. After about 30 seconds, flip it over with a pair of tongs.
3. Cook the tortilla until it turns golden brown and crispy, about 1 minute per side.
4. Remove the tortilla from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
5. Repeat with the remaining tortillas. If making a large batch, keep the cooked tortillas warm in an oven set to 200°F.

Step 2: Preparing the Chicken

1. Place the shredded chicken in a mixing bowl.
2. Pour the taco sauce or enchilada sauce over the chicken and stir until evenly coated. Set aside.

Step 3: Heating the Refried Beans

1. In a small skillet over medium heat, warm the refried beans for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, heat them in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through.

Step 4: Assembling the Tostadas

1. Spread a generous layer of warm refried beans over each crispy tostada shell.
2. Add a portion of the seasoned shredded chicken on top of the beans.
3. Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco over the chicken.
4. Add shredded lettuce, diced avocado or guacamole, Roma tomatoes, and red onion.
5. Drizzle sour cream, Greek yogurt, or Mexican crema over the top.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Beginner Tips and Notes

How to Tell If the Chicken Is Cooked Through

If you are cooking your own chicken instead of using rotisserie chicken, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can check this using a meat thermometer. The chicken should be white all the way through with no pink in the center.

Avoiding Soggy Tostadas

• Always assemble tostadas just before serving to keep the tortillas crispy.
• If using guacamole, place it between the chicken and lettuce rather than directly on the shell to prevent sogginess.
• Using a slotted spoon to scoop the chicken helps remove excess moisture, keeping the tostada crisp.

How to Make Tostadas Without Frying

For a healthier alternative, bake the tortillas instead of frying them:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Lightly brush each side of the tortillas with oil and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crisp.

Efficient Meal Prep Tips

• Use store-bought rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep time.
• Chop vegetables ahead of time and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Make a large batch of tostada shells in advance and store them in an airtight container for quick meals during the week.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes That Pair Well with Chicken Tostadas

• Mexican Rice: A classic side dish that complements the flavors of tostadas.
• Black Beans or Charro Beans: Adds a protein-rich element to the meal.
• Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions add a smoky, delicious flavor.
• Corn Salad: A refreshing side with a hint of sweetness that balances the tostadas.

Beverage Pairings

• Agua Fresca: Refreshing fruit-infused water, such as watermelon or cucumber lime.
• Horchata: A creamy rice-based drink with cinnamon.
• Iced Tea with Lime: A simple, refreshing option.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

• Tostada Shells: Store leftover tostada shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Chicken: Keep seasoned shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Refried Beans: Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Chicken Tostadas are a perfect introduction to Mexican cooking for beginner cooks. They are easy to make, highly customizable, and packed with bold flavors and textures. With crispy tortillas, seasoned chicken, and fresh toppings, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out. What toppings did you choose? Did you make any variations? Share your experience in the comments—I would love to hear from you. Cooking should be fun, and this recipe is a great way to build confidence in the kitchen. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Tostadas!