Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tasty Rotisserie Chicken Tostadas are a delicious way to turn store-bought rotisserie chicken into a vibrant, satisfying meal in minutes. Crispy tostada shells are layered with refried beans, shredded chicken, fresh toppings, and a drizzle of creamy sauce, creating a dish that’s both hearty and refreshing. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet flavorful, or for casual gatherings where everyone can customize their tostadas to their liking. With bold flavors, a variety of textures, and plenty of topping options, these tostadas bring Mexican-inspired comfort food right to your table. Best of all, they’re incredibly versatile—you can keep them simple or load them up with your favorite ingredients for a customizable feast.
Print
Tasty Rotisserie Chicken Tostadas – A Quick and Flavorful Mexican-Inspired Meal
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 8 tostadas
- Diet: Halal
Description
Crispy tostadas topped with flavorful shredded rotisserie chicken, refried beans, fresh veggies, and cheese for a quick and delicious Mexican-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 8 tostada shells
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 avocado, sliced or mashed
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, warm shredded rotisserie chicken with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until heated through and coated with spices.
- Warm refried beans in a small saucepan until spreadable.
- Spread a layer of refried beans over each tostada shell.
- Top with seasoned chicken, shredded lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
- Add avocado slices and a dollop of sour cream.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- Use baked tostada shells for a lighter version.
- Customize toppings with jalapeños, pickled onions, or black beans.
- Great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Rotisserie chicken – Shredded, juicy, and perfectly seasoned for quick meal prep.
Tostada shells – Crisp bases that hold all the toppings without getting soggy.
Refried beans – Provide a creamy, flavorful layer that anchors the toppings.
Cheddar or Mexican cheese blend – Melts beautifully for added richness.
Lettuce – Shredded for freshness and crunch.
Tomatoes – Diced for a juicy burst of flavor.
Red onion – Thinly sliced for sharpness and color.
Avocado – Creamy and buttery, balancing the bold toppings.
Sour cream or crema – Adds cool creaminess as a finishing drizzle.
Salsa or hot sauce – Brings heat and tang to the tostadas.
Fresh cilantro – Brightens the dish with fresh herbal flavor.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place tostada shells on a baking sheet and warm them for 3–4 minutes to crisp further.
Spread a layer of refried beans over each tostada shell, followed by shredded rotisserie chicken. Sprinkle with cheese and return to the oven briefly until the cheese melts.
Remove from the oven and top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion, and avocado slices. Finish with a drizzle of sour cream or crema, and garnish with salsa, hot sauce, and fresh cilantro.
Serve immediately while the shells are still crisp.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 8 tostadas, serving 4 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and baking requires 5 minutes, so the entire dish comes together in 20 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store toppings separately and assemble tostadas just before eating to avoid soggy shells. Leftover shredded chicken and beans can be refrigerated in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and beans on the stovetop or in the microwave before assembling.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy tostadas – Add jalapeños, chipotle sauce, or extra hot sauce for heat.
Cheesy upgrade – Use queso fresco or cotija for authentic flavor.
Vegetarian version – Replace chicken with sautéed peppers, mushrooms, or black beans.
Guacamole base – Spread guacamole on the shell instead of refried beans.
BBQ twist – Toss shredded chicken in barbecue sauce for a fusion flavor.
Seafood swap – Replace chicken with shrimp or fish for a coastal take.
Breakfast tostadas – Add a fried egg on top for a hearty breakfast option.
Healthier option – Use baked tostada shells or whole-grain tortillas.
Extra crunch – Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or toasted pumpkin seeds on top.
Creamy dressing – Drizzle with chipotle ranch or avocado crema for added richness.
FAQs
Can I use homemade tostada shells?
Yes, fry or bake corn tortillas until crisp for a fresh option.
Can I use leftover chicken instead of rotisserie?
Absolutely—any cooked shredded chicken works well.
Do I need to heat the tostada shells?
Yes, warming them ensures they’re crisp and sturdy for toppings.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Assemble just before serving; otherwise, the shells will soften.
What beans work best?
Refried pinto beans are classic, but black beans also work.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, skip the cheese and sour cream, or use dairy-free alternatives.
How do I keep avocado from browning?
Toss it in lime juice before adding to tostadas.
Are tostadas gluten-free?
Yes, corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels.
Can I freeze the chicken mixture?
Yes, freeze shredded chicken for up to 2 months and thaw before using.
What side dishes pair well with tostadas?
Mexican rice, elote (street corn), or a simple salad are great choices.
Conclusion
Tasty Rotisserie Chicken Tostadas are a quick, flavorful, and customizable meal that transforms simple ingredients into a Mexican-inspired feast. With their crunchy base, creamy beans, juicy chicken, and fresh toppings, they deliver a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Ideal for busy nights or entertaining guests, these tostadas are both easy and impressive. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with variations, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!