When you’re craving something bold, crunchy, and easy to make, BBQ Chicken Tostadas are here to save the day! These tostadas are the perfect mix of sweet, tangy, smoky BBQ chicken piled high on crispy tostada shells and topped with all your favorite fixings. They’re quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve at your next gathering. Plus, they’re customizable, making them a great family-friendly meal everyone can build their own way. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
For the BBQ Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand)
For the Tostadas:
- 6 tostada shells (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion or pickled red onions
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for drizzling)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Pro Tips
- Homemade Tostada Shells: For extra crunch, bake or fry your own tostada shells using corn tortillas. Just brush them with oil and bake at 400°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using a store-bought rotisserie chicken for perfectly tender, shredded meat.
- Add Heat: Sprinkle in some cayenne or top with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Cheese First: Add a layer of cheese directly on the tostada shell and melt it in the oven before piling on the toppings. This creates a base layer that keeps the shell crispy and adds extra flavor.
- Build Your Own: Set up a DIY tostada bar so everyone can add their favorite toppings—perfect for picky eaters!
Tools Needed
- Baking sheet (if warming tostada shells or melting cheese)
- Small mixing bowl (for BBQ chicken)
- Knife and cutting board (for toppings)
- Spoon or small spatula (for assembling tostadas)
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein Options: Substitute chicken with pulled pork, ground beef, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
- BBQ Sauce Swap: Use chipotle BBQ sauce for smoky heat or a honey BBQ for a sweeter flavor.
- Toppings Galore: Add extras like avocado slices, corn, black beans, or crumbled queso fresco.
- Gluten-Free: Most tostada shells are naturally gluten-free, but double-check the packaging to be sure.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the shredded BBQ chicken up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Warm it up before assembling the tostadas.
- Dice and prep your toppings (like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions) ahead of time and store them in separate containers to make assembly quick and easy.
Instructions
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken
In a small mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated. Warm it in a skillet over low heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
2. Warm the Tostada Shells
Place the tostada shells on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. This enhances their crunchiness.
3. Assemble the Tostadas
Take a warmed tostada shell and layer on the BBQ chicken, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheese on top.
4. Add Toppings
Top the BBQ chicken and cheese with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced red onions. Drizzle with sour cream and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.
5. Serve with Lime Wedges
Serve the tostadas immediately with lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze of citrus. Enjoy!
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftover BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet or microwave. Keep tostada shells stored separately at room temperature to prevent them from getting soggy. Assemble fresh tostadas just before serving.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Tostadas are the ultimate quick and satisfying meal that brings together bold flavors and crispy textures. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or entertaining friends, these tostadas are guaranteed to be a hit. They’re easy to customize, fun to eat, and full of vibrant flavors. Give them a try and let me know how you topped yours in the comments below. Happy cooking! 🌮✨
