There’s something about the crunch of a tostada that instantly brings a smile. The first time I made these chicken tostadas, the smell of cumin and chili powder filling the kitchen made the whole house feel cozy and inviting. As I layered warm refried beans onto crisp corn shells, the anticipation built with every step. The seasoned chicken, tender and flavorful, balanced perfectly with fresh, cool lettuce and juicy diced tomatoes. Then came the sprinkle of shredded cheese melting slightly from the warmth beneath, and finally, a smooth drizzle of sour cream that tied all the flavors together. It was the kind of meal that felt like a celebration in every bite—simple, satisfying, and deeply comforting.

That moment when you bite into a tostada and hear the satisfying crunch, followed by the burst of smoky spices and fresh ingredients, is unbeatable. It’s an easy dish that invites gathering around the table, sharing stories, and savoring the simple joy of good food. I love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekend lunches.

Ready in just over half an hour, making it a practical choice for lunch or dinner.
Combines crispy textures with warm, seasoned chicken and creamy beans for a balanced bite.
Fresh lettuce and tomatoes add brightness, while cheese melts into every layer.
A versatile meal that satisfies without fuss, ideal for those craving Mexican-inspired flavors.

If you’re worried about making it just right, don’t be. The tostada shells stay crisp if you warm them properly, and the chicken can be prepped ahead for even faster assembly. It’s a forgiving recipe that welcomes your personal touch, whether you want to add a little extra spice or swap out toppings.

Chicken Tostadas

Print Recipe

Crispy chicken tostadas topped with seasoned shredded chicken, refried beans, fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of sour cream. A quick and delicious Mexican-inspired meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4

Ingredients

Scale

4 corn tostada shells
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup refried beans
1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
1 medium tomato, diced
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup sour cream

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken with olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly coat the chicken with the spices.
Place the corn tostada shells on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for 5 minutes until crisp.
While the shells warm, heat the refried beans in a small saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Remove tostada shells from the oven. Spread about 1/4 cup of warm refried beans evenly over each tostada shell.
Top the beans with an even layer of the seasoned shredded chicken.
Add shredded lettuce evenly over the chicken on each tostada.
Sprinkle diced tomatoes and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the lettuce.
Drizzle about 1 tablespoon of sour cream over each tostada.
Serve immediately while the tostadas are crisp and toppings are fresh.

FAQ

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cooked and seasoned chicken can be stored refrigerated for up to three days, making weeknight meal prep a breeze.

How do I keep the tostadas crisp?
Keep the shells in an airtight container at room temperature and warm them briefly in the oven before serving to retain their crunch.

Can I customize the toppings?
Definitely! Add avocado slices, jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime to make this dish your own.

Is this dish suitable for a quick lunch?
Yes, it’s designed to come together quickly without sacrificing flavor, perfect for a satisfying midday meal.

Enjoy creating these crispy chicken tostadas that bring a little zest and warmth to your table. Save this recipe for your next lunch or dinner, and don’t forget to share how you made it your own!