Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Tostadas are a deliciously crisp and satisfying Mexican dish layered with seasoned chicken, refried beans, and vibrant toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa. Quick to assemble and easy to customize, they make a perfect weeknight dinner or party appetizer. The combination of textures—from crunchy tortilla to creamy beans and juicy chicken—makes every bite unforgettable.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

corn tostada shells
cooked and shredded chicken
refried beans
shredded lettuce
diced tomatoes
sour cream
shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
salsa or hot sauce
avocado or guacamole
olive oil
taco seasoning (for chicken)
lime wedges (for serving)

directions

Heat a skillet over medium heat with a bit of olive oil and add the shredded chicken. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the chicken and stir to combine. Cook for a few minutes until heated through and well coated.

Warm the refried beans in a saucepan or microwave until smooth and spreadable.

Lay out the tostada shells on a clean work surface or plate.

Spread a layer of warm refried beans onto each tostada shell.

Top the beans with the seasoned chicken.

Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and avocado or guacamole.

Drizzle with sour cream and salsa or hot sauce to taste.

Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 tostadas.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Assembly time: 5 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use ground beef, carnitas, or shrimp instead of chicken for a different protein.
Top with pickled red onions or jalapeños for extra tang and heat.
Swap out the refried beans for black beans or pinto beans.
Add a fried egg on top for a breakfast-style tostada.

storage/reheating

Store toppings and shells separately to maintain crispness. Refrigerate toppings for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the chicken and beans in a microwave or skillet.
Crisp tostada shells in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes before assembling.

FAQs

Can I make tostada shells at home?

Yes, lightly fry corn tortillas in oil until crisp or bake them at 400°F until golden.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the tostada shells and seasoning are certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely, cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.

How do I keep tostadas from getting soggy?

Apply a thin layer of beans first to create a barrier, and assemble just before serving.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it’s a great shortcut—just shred and season it before using.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend are ideal for flavor and melt.

Conclusion

Chicken Tostadas are a flavorful, fun, and highly customizable dish that brings the best of Mexican cuisine to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick dinner idea, these tostadas offer the perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and zest in every bite.