Chicken Tostadas Ultimate (Print Page)

Crispy tortillas with seasoned chicken and fresh toppings.

# What You Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
02 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon cumin
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
06 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
07 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Tostada Base

08 - 8 small corn tortillas
09 - Vegetable oil, for frying or brushing

→ Toppings

10 - 1 cup refried beans (canned or homemade)
11 - 1 cup shredded lettuce
12 - 1 cup diced tomatoes
13 - 1/2 cup diced red onion
14 - 1 avocado, sliced
15 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
16 - 1/4 cup sour cream
17 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
18 - Lime wedges, to serve

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shredded chicken and season with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through and evenly coated. Remove from heat and set aside.
02 - Preheat oven to 400°F or heat vegetable oil in a large skillet. For baking, brush tortillas lightly with oil, place on a baking sheet, and bake for 5-7 minutes per side until crisp and golden. For frying, cook tortillas in hot oil for 30-45 seconds per side, then drain on paper towels.
03 - Heat refried beans in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.
04 - Spread a layer of warm refried beans on each crisp tortilla. Add a portion of seasoned chicken. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion, avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro.
05 - Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The contrast between the hot, crispy shell and the cool, creamy toppings is absolutely addictive.
  • You can customize every layer to please even the pickiest eaters in your house.
02 -
  • Dry your vegetables thoroughly or the tostada shell will get soggy within minutes.
  • Serve them immediately after assembling because the moisture from the tomatoes will eventually soften the tortilla.
03 -
  • Warm your tortillas in the microwave for 20 seconds before frying to prevent them from cracking.
  • Season your shredded lettuce with a tiny pinch of salt to boost its flavor.