Easy Chicken Tostadas Recipe

Chicken Tostadas are a perfect combination of crunch and flavor, making them an ideal dish for a quick and satisfying meal. These tostadas are topped with a seasoned chicken mixture, melted cheese, black beans, and fresh veggies, offering a balanced and flavorful bite every time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can prepare this dish in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or even a weekend family dinner.

Ingredients:

• 8 corn tortillas (6 inch)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 8.5 ounces corn, drained
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 8 ounces salsa
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Tomatoes, diced, for garnish

Directions:

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush both sides of the corn tortillas with vegetable oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy.

Step 2:
In a skillet over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken, salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Step 3:
Spread the drained black beans and corn evenly over the baked tostada shells.

Step 4:
Top with the seasoned chicken mixture and sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese over each tostada.

Step 5:
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

Step 6:
Garnish with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes before serving.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a veggie tostada version.
• Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce over the finished tostadas for extra heat.
• Cheese Swap: Try using a different cheese like pepper jack or cheddar to change up the flavor profile.

Cooking Notes:

Make sure to watch the tortillas closely while baking, as they can go from crispy to overcooked quickly. For best results, flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping on both sides.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair these Chicken Tostadas with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with sour cream, guacamole, or a side of salsa for dipping.

Tips:

• These tostadas are a great way to use up leftover chicken. Just shred and season it for a quick meal.
• Customize the toppings to your liking by adding avocado slices, shredded lettuce, or pickled onions.

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Cooking Time:
15-20 minutes

Total Time:
30-35 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 450
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 850mg

FAQs:

1. Can I make the tostadas ahead of time?
   Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, bake the tortillas, assemble the tostadas, and bake again just to melt the cheese.
2. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
   While corn tortillas are more traditional for tostadas, you can use flour tortillas. However, they may not get as crispy when baked.
3. What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
   You can make your own by mixing chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
4. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
   Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred the meat and mix it with the salsa and taco seasoning as instructed.
5. How can I store leftovers?
   If you have leftover tostadas, store the toppings and shells separately to keep them from getting soggy. Reheat the toppings in a skillet and the shells in the oven before assembling them again.

These Chicken Tostadas are a versatile and family-friendly meal that can be customized to suit different tastes. Whether you prefer a mild flavor or something spicier, these tostadas offer endless possibilities. With their crispy tortillas and hearty toppings, they are sure to become a go-to dinner favorite in your home.

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