Chicken tostadas are crunchy tortillas topped with delicious shredded chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty salsa. They’re perfect for a fun meal with family or friends!
Each bite is a tasty mix of flavors and textures that makes me smile. I love serving them with a side of guacamole—who doesn’t love a little extra creaminess? 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn Tortillas: These are the base for your tostadas, giving a crunchy texture. If you can’t find corn tortillas, you can use flour tortillas but they won’t be as crispy. You can also make your own tortillas if you’re up for it!
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience and flavor. You can also use leftover chicken or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch. For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for black beans or grilled veggies.
Enchilada Sauce/Salsa: I love using red enchilada sauce for its rich flavor. If you want something milder, go for a green salsa or even a homemade pico de gallo. You can also leave this out if you prefer simpler toppings.
Cheese: Queso fresco or cotija adds great flavor and creaminess. If these cheeses aren’t available, you can use feta or even a mild cheddar. Just keep in mind that the taste will change a bit!
How Do You Get Crispy Tortillas for Tostadas?
Frying the tortillas is key to achieving that perfect crunch for your tostadas. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat—don’t let it smoke!
- Fry each tortilla for about 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
If you prefer a healthier option, simply bake your tortillas. Brush them lightly with oil and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until crispy. This way, you still get that satisfying crunch without frying!
How to Make Delicious Chicken Tostadas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 cup red enchilada sauce or salsa
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take around 20-30 minutes to prepare, including the time to fry the tortillas. Once they’re golden and crispy, assembling the tostadas is quick and easy! Just bake or fry the tortillas, assemble the toppings, and you’re ready to eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tortillas:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re frying, pour about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil into a skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the corn tortillas, one at a time. Fry them for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. If you prefer baking, just brush each tortilla lightly with oil and bake them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes until they’re crispy.
2. Add the Sauce:
Once your tortillas are crispy, it’s time to layer on some flavor! Spread about 1 tablespoon of red enchilada sauce or salsa evenly over each crispy tortilla. This gives a nice kick and moisture to your tostadas.
3. Top with Chicken:
Next, pile on a generous amount of shredded chicken on top of the sauce. Make sure to season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor.
4. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Now it’s time for the tasty toppings! Add slices of ripe avocado on top of the chicken. Then sprinkle the chopped red onion and fresh cilantro generously over each tostada. These fresh ingredients add brightness and crunch!
5. Finish with Cheese:
To finish off your tostadas, add crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese for an extra layer of flavor. It adds a wonderful creamy texture that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious chicken tostadas right away with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. The lime adds an excellent zesty finish that brightens everything up. Enjoy this crunchy, flavorful meal with family and friends!
Can I Use Store-Bought Tortillas Instead of Making My Own?
Absolutely! Store-bought corn tortillas are perfect for this recipe. Just follow the frying or baking instructions to get them crispy and ready for toppings!
What Can I Use Instead of Queso Fresco?
If you can’t find queso fresco, crumbled cotija cheese works great as a substitute. You can also use feta cheese or a mild cheddar, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Can I Make Tostadas in Advance?
You can prepare some components ahead of time! Fry or bake the tortillas and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Assemble right before serving to keep the tortillas crispy!
How Do I Store Leftover Tostadas?
Store any leftover toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge, and leave the tortillas unassembled. The toppings will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, just re-fry or bake the tortillas and assemble them again!