Chicken and Bean Tostadas
Crispy corn tortillas piled high with seasoned shredded chicken, creamy refried beans, and all your favorite fresh toppings. A fun, customizable Tex-Mex dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for a weeknight family meal.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Toppings and Chicken
- b.Shred the lettuce, dice the tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion. Set all fresh toppings aside.
- c.In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Heat Chicken and Beans
- b.Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until warmed through, about 3-4 minutes. If it appears dry, add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- c.In the same skillet, add the refried beans. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and heated through, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the remaining 1/4 tsp salt. Keep warm.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Fry the Tostada Shells
- b.In a separate large skillet, heat 1/2 cup of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small piece of tortilla sizzles immediately.
- c.Carefully place one tortilla in the hot oil. Fry for 45-60 seconds per side, using tongs to flip, until golden brown and crispy.
- d.Remove the tortilla and let it drain on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels. Lightly sprinkle with salt while hot.
- e.Repeat with the remaining tortillas, adding more oil if the pan becomes dry.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.To assemble, take a crispy tostada shell and spread a layer of warm refried beans evenly over the surface.
- c.Top with a portion of the seasoned shredded chicken.
- d.Garnish with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese and fresh cilantro.
- e.Serve immediately, with sour cream and your favorite salsa on the side.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a faster meal, use store-bought tostada shells and pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
- 2Assemble the tostadas just before serving to prevent the shells from getting soggy.
- 3Don't overcrowd the pan when frying tortillas; cook them one at a time for the crispiest results.
- 4For a healthier baked version, lightly spray tortillas with cooking spray, sprinkle with salt, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp.
- 5Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and beans before assembling.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute the shredded chicken with seasoned ground beef, shredded pork (carnitas), or chorizo for a different flavor profile.
VegetarianVegetarian
Omit the chicken and use a can of drained and rinsed black beans, mashed slightly with the refried beans, or use a plant-based meat substitute.
Topping IdeasTopping Ideas
Get creative with toppings! Add sliced jalapeños for heat, diced avocado or guacamole for creaminess, or a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a salty finish.
Bean VariationBean Variation
Instead of canned refried beans, use canned black beans. Warm them in the skillet with the spices and mash about half of them with a fork to create a creamy texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Lean Protein
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Excellent Source of Fiber
Refried beans are packed with dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and contributes to heart health by lowering cholesterol.
Loaded with Fresh Vegetables
Toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro add a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the meal, boosting its overall nutritional value.
Frequently asked questions
One serving, which includes two tostadas with all the specified toppings, contains approximately 650-700 calories. The exact count can vary based on the amount of cheese, sour cream, and oil absorbed during frying.