If you’re ready to bring a burst of flavor and a little crunch to your weeknight dinner routine, Easy Chicken Tostadas are the answer you’ve been searching for. These vibrant tostadas feature layers of refried beans, juicy, boldly seasoned chicken, melty cheese, and a confetti of fresh toppings, all stacked on golden, crisp corn shells. Not only are these tostadas fun to assemble, but they’re also gloriously fast and easy, perfect for busy evenings or casual entertaining. Plus, you’ll love how customizable they are—everyone can add their favorite toppings to make each tostada just right.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how every one of these simple ingredients comes together to create a flavor-packed, colorful platter! Each element adds something essential, from savory protein and creamy beans to the freshest, crispest veggies—you’ll taste complexity in every bite, but the effort is minimal.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is your shortcut hero for moist, pull-apart perfection every time.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Just a splash helps the seasoning cling to every strand of chicken for mouthwatering flavor.
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning: This brings instant, zesty Mexican vibes—feel free to use your favorite blend.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps the seasoning beautifully coat the chicken and keeps it juicy.
- 8 small corn tostada shells: Crunchy, sturdy shells are the foundation—look for them in the bakery or chip aisle.
- 1 can (15 ounces) refried beans, warmed: Ultra-creamy beans act as a “glue” and add gorgeous richness to every bite.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the warm layers for that irresistible cheesy finish.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce: Crisp and refreshing—this is your cool contrast to all the hearty flavors.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes: Juicy bursts of brightness that make every tostada pop.
- 1/4 cup diced red onion: Adds just the right zing and vibrant color.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: For a fresh, herby lift that ties everything together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Creamy and tangy—the finishing touch your tostadas crave.
- Lime wedges for serving: A squeeze of lime brings all the flavors to life, so don’t skip it!
How to Make Easy Chicken Tostadas
Step 1: Season and Warm the Chicken
Set a large skillet over medium heat, add in the olive oil, and swoop in with your shredded chicken. Sprinkle in your taco seasoning and pour over the water. Give everything a good stir and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells like taco night magic and every piece glistens with flavor. Remove from the heat—your star protein is now ready for tostada assembly.
Step 2: Spread the Beans
Take your crisp corn tostada shells and spread a generous layer of warm refried beans onto each one. Don’t be shy with this step! The beans not only add a creamy, hearty base but also help the toppings stay put. They’re the unsung hero of Easy Chicken Tostadas.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Cheese
Pile on the seasoned chicken, distributing it evenly over the beans so every bite is loaded with juicy flavor. While the chicken’s still warm, sprinkle a handful of shredded cheddar cheese over each tostada. The heat will gently melt the cheese, creating the perfect meld of savory goodness.
Step 4: Pile on the Fresh Toppings
Now comes the fun part! Add a layer of shredded lettuce for crunch, then scatter diced tomatoes, red onion, and chopped cilantro over the top. Each addition brings a fresh burst of color and texture, making every tostada a miniature work of art.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Drizzle with cool, creamy sour cream, then serve your Easy Chicken Tostadas straight away with plenty of lime wedges for squeezing. The final zing of citrus ties it all together—get ready to dig in and crunch away to your heart’s content.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Tostadas
Garnishes
Toppings can elevate your Easy Chicken Tostadas from delicious to extraordinary! In addition to a classic dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro, try finishing with sliced avocado, pickled jalapeños, or your favorite salsa. A dash of hot sauce or a few sliced radishes add even more flair and flavor.
Side Dishes
These tostadas play well with all sorts of sides. A simple Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice is always a hit, while black beans or pinto beans make for a hearty addition. Or serve with a crunchy cabbage slaw or crisp tortilla chips with guacamole for the ultimate tostada night feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn dinner into a tostada bar by setting out bowls of toppings so everyone can build their dream creation—especially fun for families or gatherings! Or, arrange your tostadas on a big platter, garnished with extra lime wedges and colorful toppings, to make your table look festive and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover toppings or assembled Easy Chicken Tostadas (lucky you!), store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps keep the shells crisp and the veggies fresh. Just assemble right before serving for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
While tostada shells don’t freeze well, you can absolutely freeze the seasoned chicken for future tostada emergencies! Portion the cooled chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready for another tostada night.
Reheating
To get your chicken filling warm and tasty again, pop it in the microwave or reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to keep it juicy. Tostada shells are best enjoyed fresh, but you can revive them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to bring back that signature crunch.
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tostada shells?
Absolutely! Flour tortillas can be crisped up in the oven or on a skillet for a different twist. They aren’t quite as sturdy as corn tostadas but do offer a softer crunch and are a fantastic alternative if you’re not a fan of corn.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As long as you use certified gluten-free corn tostada shells, this Easy Chicken Tostadas recipe is naturally gluten-free. Be sure to check the taco seasoning and refried beans for any hidden gluten-containing ingredients if you’re cooking for someone with sensitivities.
What toppings can I add to customize my tostadas?
The sky’s the limit! Some delicious options include sliced avocado, pickled onions, jalapeños, cotija cheese, shredded cabbage, hot sauce, or your favorite salsa. Mix and match to keep things exciting every time you make them.
Can I prep any part of this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can make the chicken filling and prep all the toppings in advance. Just store each item separately and assemble the tostadas right before you’re ready to eat to ensure everything stays crisp and fresh.
How do I keep my tostada shells from getting soggy?
Here’s a pro tip: make sure your beans aren’t too runny, and layer them first so they act as a barrier between the shell and juicy toppings. Also, only assemble just before serving and serve immediately so the shells stay perfectly crunchy.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as biting into a plate of Easy Chicken Tostadas—the flavors explode, the crunch is unbeatable, and the whole experience is just plain fun. I hope you try these for your next weeknight dinner or get-together; they’re fast, foolproof, and a total crowd-pleaser. Give them a go and watch everyone (yourself included) devour them with joy!
Print
Easy Chicken Tostadas Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 tostadas 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Chicken Tostadas are a delicious and simple meal perfect for busy weeknights. Crispy corn tostada shells are topped with seasoned shredded chicken, refried beans, cheese, and all your favorite toppings. Customize them to your liking for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
For Assembling:
- 8 small corn tostada shells
- 1 can (15 ounces) refried beans, warmed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the shredded chicken, taco seasoning, and water. Stir well and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and well coated in seasoning. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Tostadas: Spread a spoonful of warm refried beans onto each tostada shell. Top each with the seasoned chicken and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Drizzle with sour cream.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- Use store-bought rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Customize with toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or your favorite salsa.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, No-Bake
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tostada
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
