These shredded chicken tostadas (tostadas de pollo) are super easy and incredibly delicious! You start with shredded chicken breast tossed in a simple honey chipotle sauce, then pile it onto crispy tostada shells with lots of yummy toppings.
If you want to keep it more traditional, you can use tinga sauce, salsa, or even enchilada sauce for the chicken. They’re quick to make, taste amazing, and have an unbeatable crunch!
To make this recipe even faster and easier, I use ingredients that don’t need much prep work. Everything else is straightforward. You’ll love how quickly these tostadas de pollo come together!
If you’ve never tried shredded chicken tostadas, get excited because they’re about to become your new favorite! I like to serve them with queso mac and cheese, watermelon with tajin, and chips and salsa. Enjoy!
Tostadas de Pollo Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 Boneless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- Juice of ½ lime
- ½ tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 tsp Chili powder
- ½ tsp Pepper
- Salt to taste
For the Tostadas
- 8 corn Tostada shells see notes
- 1 cup Refried beans
- Queso fresco or feta cheese crumbled
- 3 cups Iceberg lettuce shredded
- 1 medium Tomato sliced
- Oil for frying
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lime juice, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, pepper, and salt.
- Add the chicken thighs and turn them to coat evenly. Let them marinate for 20 minutes.
Grill the Chicken:
- Heat a griddle pan or cast-iron skillet until it’s smoking hot. Brush lightly with oil.
- Grill the chicken, flipping occasionally, until it’s golden, charred, and fully cooked.
- Transfer the chicken to a bowl, cover with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then, shred it using two forks. Keep it covered to stay moist.
Assemble the Tostadas:
- Spread refried beans on each tostada shell.
- Add a layer of shredded chicken.
- Top with shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and pickled onions.
- Finish with crumbled cheese and a drizzle of your favorite salsa.
Notes
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If you have the time, marinate the chicken for at least an hour or overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, making it even more flavorful.
- Crispy Tostadas: For extra crispy tostada shells, brush them lightly with oil and bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. This method is healthier than frying and ensures an even crisp.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 265 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 16g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 17g |
| Cholesterol | 29mg |
| Sodium | 602mg |
| Sugar | 4g |
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat For This Recipe?
Yes, you can use different meats! While this recipe uses chicken thighs, you can substitute them with chicken breasts, beef, pork, or even seafood like shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure your meat is cooked through and flavorful.
How Can I Make My Tostada Shells At Home?
Making your tostada shells is easy! Start with corn tortillas and brush them lightly with oil on both sides. Place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown. You can also fry them in hot oil for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they are crunchy and golden.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With Chicken Tostadas?
Chicken tostadas go great with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include Mexican rice, black beans, or a simple avocado salad. You can also serve them with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for extra flavor. These sides add more variety and make your meal even more satisfying.