If you crave bold flavors, vibrant colors, and irresistible crunch, then get excited — this “Authentic Mexican Chicken Tostadas Recipe” is the stress-free answer to your busy weeknight meal dilemmas. Whether you are new to Mexican cooking or simply want easy, reliable results, this approachable method delivers real-deal taste in every crispy bite. Packed with savory chicken, zesty toppings, and that famous tostada crunch, it’s a dish anyone can master—and everyone will want seconds of!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Firstly, who doesn’t appreciate a dish that feels festive yet comes together without fuss? Thanks to simple steps and everyday ingredients, this “Authentic Mexican Chicken Tostadas Recipe” guarantees satisfaction. Here’s even more to love: not only is it refreshingly customizable and quick to prepare, but the flavors transport you straight to the heart of a Mexican kitchen. Additionally, this meal encourages everyone at the table to mix, match, and create their perfect tostada in minutes.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1½ teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup chicken broth
For the Tostadas and Toppings:
8 corn tostada shells (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup refried beans (warmed)
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup diced tomatoes
½ cup diced red onion
½ cup crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar
¼ cup chopped cilantro
½ cup Mexican crema or sour cream
1–2 avocados, sliced
Lime wedges, for serving
How to Make Authentic Mexican Chicken Tostadas Recipe (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare the Chicken
Begin by combining chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Next, coat each chicken breast evenly with the spice blend. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side, then add chicken broth. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 9–12 minutes, or until fully cooked. Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before shredding with two forks.
2. Warm the Tostada Shells
While the chicken cooks, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place tostada shells directly on the oven rack for 4–5 minutes, or until extra crispy. Of course, store-bought shells can skip this step, but a quick oven toast really enhances the crunch.
3. Prepare Your Toppings
Now, gather your tomatoes, lettuce, onion, cheese, crema, cilantro, and avocado. Slice, dice, and set everything out in little bowls—this makes assembling your authentic Mexican chicken tostadas recipe super simple for everyone.
4. Assemble
Start building each tostada by spreading a spoonful of warm refried beans on every shell. Next, add a generous helping of shredded chicken. Then, pile on lettuce, tomatoes, onion, cheese, avocado, and more. Finish with crema, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
5. Serve
Because tostadas are all about the crunch, serve them immediately. Invite friends or family to top their own — after all, that’s half the fun!
Expert Tips
Beyond following instructions, I have some kitchen confessions! For best results, always let your chicken rest before shredding—this keeps it juicy and tender. If you want a taste boost, use chicken thighs for richer flavor. Furthermore, layering beans before chicken stops the shell from getting soggy. And don’t forget: quality tortillas make a noticeable difference!
Recipe Variations
As much as tradition matters, it’s fun to improvise. So, try these ideas:
Substitute pulled rotisserie chicken for extra speed
Swap black beans for refried beans
Add sliced radish, jalapeños, or even mango salsa for a summery twist
Use Greek yogurt instead of crema for a lighter option
Try baked flour tortillas (not traditional, but delicious)
Storage and Reheating
Although tostadas taste best fresh, you can prepare the shredded chicken up to 3 days ahead. Store chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers. When ready to eat, gently reheat chicken in a skillet or microwave, then assemble—never store pre-assembled tostadas, as they turn soggy fast.
Serving Suggestions
Because tostadas are so versatile, I love serving them with Mexican rice, charro beans, or a light cabbage slaw. For drinks, try fresh agua fresca or limeade. The tostadas also work as part of a festive taco bar or alongside tortilla soup for larger gatherings.
If you crave bold flavors, vibrant colors, and irresistible crunch, then get excited — this “Authentic Mexican Chicken Tostadas Recipe” is the stress-free answer to your busy weeknight meal dilemmas. Whether you are new to Mexican cooking or simply want easy, reliable results, this approachable method delivers real-deal taste in every crispy bite. Packed with savory chicken, zesty toppings, and that famous tostada crunch, it’s a dish anyone can master—and everyone will want seconds of!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 1/2tbsp chili powder
1tsp ground cumin
1/2tsp onion powder
1/2tsp garlic powder
1/2tsp salt
1/4tsp black pepper
1tbsp olive oil
1/2cup chicken broth
For the Tostadas and Toppings:
8 corn tostada shells (store-bought or homemade)
1cup refried beans (warmed)
1cup shredded lettuce
1cup diced tomatoes
1/2cup diced red onion
1/2cup crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar
1/4cup chopped cilantro
1/2cup Mexican crema or sour cream
1-2 avocados, (sliced)
Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step-by-Step
1
Prepare the Chicken
Begin by combining chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Next, coat each chicken breast evenly with the spice blend. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side, then add chicken broth. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 9–12 minutes, or until fully cooked. Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before shredding with two forks.
2
Warm the Tostada Shells
While the chicken cooks, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place tostada shells directly on the oven rack for 4–5 minutes, or until extra crispy. Of course, store-bought shells can skip this step, but a quick oven toast really enhances the crunch.
3
Prepare Your Toppings
Now, gather your tomatoes, lettuce, onion, cheese, crema, cilantro, and avocado. Slice, dice, and set everything out in little bowls—this makes assembling your authentic Mexican chicken tostadas recipe super simple for everyone.
4
Assemble
Start building each tostada by spreading a spoonful of warm refried beans on every shell. Next, add a generous helping of shredded chicken. Then, pile on lettuce, tomatoes, onion, cheese, avocado, and more. Finish with crema, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
5
Serve
Because tostadas are all about the crunch, serve them immediately. Invite friends or family to top their own — after all, that’s half the fun!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 4
Amount Per Serving
Calories350kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat11g17%
Saturated Fat3g15%
Cholesterol49mg17%
Total Carbohydrate36g12%
Dietary Fiber6g24%
Sugars3g
Protein23g46%
Vitamin C 11 mg
Calcium 90 mg
Iron 1.3 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
To make homemade tostada shells, brush corn tortillas lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (205°C) for 5–7 minutes per side. This resulting crunch is worth the small extra effort.
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Luna
Food Blogger
Hi, I'm Luna, a full-time food blogger and a passionate home cook. I live in New Jersey with my family. Loves traveling, sharing new recipes, and spending time with my family.