Chicken Tostadas Recipe

Chicken tostadas are a delicious and versatile Mexican dish made from crispy tortillas topped with seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauces. They are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as appetizers for a gathering. This recipe combines the richness of seasoned chicken with fresh toppings, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Whether you use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own, these tostadas can be tailored to your preferences, making them a hit with family and friends.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken is heated through.
2. Add Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth to keep the chicken moist, stirring occasionally. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is well combined with the spices. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas

Frying Method:

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Fry Tortillas: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the corn tortillas one at a time. Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain: Remove the tortillas and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Baking Method (Healthier Option):

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Tortillas: Brush both sides of the corn tortillas with vegetable oil and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and golden.

Step 3: Assemble the Tostadas

1. Spread Refried Beans: If using, spread a thin layer of refried beans on each crispy tortilla.
2. Add Chicken: Top each tortilla with a generous portion of the seasoned chicken.
3. Layer Toppings: Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, avocado, and crumbled queso fresco on top of the chicken.
4. Drizzle with Sour Cream: Finish with a dollop of sour cream and garnish with fresh cilantro. Drizzle with hot sauce if desired.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate the Tostadas: Arrange the assembled tostadas on a serving platter.
2. Enjoy: Serve immediately while the tostadas are crispy and fresh.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Tostadas

1. Crispy Tortillas: Ensure the tortillas are fried or baked until they are crispy to hold up under the toppings without getting soggy.
2. Flavorful Chicken: Feel free to add more spices or even some lime juice to the chicken mixture for extra flavor.
3. Customize Toppings: Use your favorite toppings or what you have on hand. Black olives, jalapeños, or corn are excellent additions.
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for easy assembly when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve with sides like Mexican rice, corn salad, or tortilla chips and salsa for a complete meal.
• Beverages: Pair with refreshing drinks like agua fresca, horchata, or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating

Storage

To store leftover chicken tostadas:

1. Store Separately: Keep the assembled tostadas separate from the toppings to maintain their crispiness. Store chicken and toppings in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

1. Reheat Chicken: To reheat the chicken, place it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth until warmed through.
2. Refresh Tortillas: For tortillas, you can quickly reheat them in the oven or a skillet to regain some crispiness.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of Chicken Tostadas (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 2g
• Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 900mg

Nutritional Benefits

• Lean Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Healthy Fats: Avocado and olive oil provide healthy fats, beneficial for heart health.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Fresh toppings add vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals.

Conclusion

Chicken tostadas are a delicious and fun way to enjoy a Mexican-inspired meal. With crispy tortillas topped with seasoned chicken and fresh vegetables, this dish is not only satisfying but also versatile and easy to make. Enjoy customizing your tostadas with your favorite toppings and share them with family and friends for a delightful dining experience!

Yield: 4

Chicken Tostadas Recipe

Print

Chicken tostadas are a delicious and versatile Mexican dish made from crispy tortillas topped with seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauces. They are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as appetizers for a gathering. This recipe combines the richness of seasoned chicken with fresh toppings, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
• For the Tostadas:
• 8 corn tortillas
• Oil for frying (or baking for a healthier option)
• Toppings:
• 1 cup refried beans (optional)
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• ½ cup diced red onion
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ½ cup crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving)
• Hot sauce or salsa (for serving)

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken:
   In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   Add the chicken breasts and season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
   Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it, and return it to the pot with some of the cooking liquid to keep it moist.
   
2. Prepare the Tostadas:
   Frying Method: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Fry each corn tortilla for about 1-2 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
   Baking Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the tortillas on a baking sheet and brush lightly with oil. Bake for about 5-7 minutes per side until crispy.
   
3. Assemble the Tostadas:
   Spread a layer of refried beans (if using) on each crispy tortilla.
   Top with shredded chicken, followed by shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion, and avocado slices.
   
4. Add Cheese and Garnish:
   Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese on top, followed by fresh cilantro.
   
5. Serve:
   Drizzle with sour cream or Greek yogurt, and serve with hot sauce or salsa on the side.
   

Notes

• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings such as jalapeños, black olives, or corn for added flavor and texture.
• Make It Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with black beans, grilled veggies, or a plant-based protein.
• Meal Prep: The chicken can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it easy to assemble tostadas quickly.