Description
Easy Chicken Tostadas are a quick and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish featuring shredded chicken simmered with salsa and cumin, layered on crispy tostada shells with refried beans, fresh lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream, and optional guacamole. Perfect for a satisfying meal ready in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Mixture
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tostadas
- 8 tostada shells
- 1 cup refried beans, warmed
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup guacamole (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine shredded chicken, salsa, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and well-coated with the salsa and spices.
- Assemble the Tostadas: Spread a thin, even layer of warmed refried beans on each tostada shell. Spoon the warm chicken mixture over the beans, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
- Add Fresh Toppings: Sprinkle shredded lettuce, cheese, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro over the chicken layer, distributing them evenly for balanced flavor and texture.
- Finish with Creamy Garnishes: Top each tostada with dollops of sour cream and guacamole, if using, to add creaminess and richness.
- Serve: Serve the assembled tostadas immediately with lime wedges on the side, allowing diners to squeeze fresh lime juice over their tostadas for a bright, tangy finish.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut to save time.
- Refried beans can be warmed in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Customize toppings to your preference; add hot sauce or jalapeños for extra heat.
- Serve immediately to keep the tostada shells crisp and crunchy.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with seasoned sautéed mushrooms or black beans.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican