BBQ Chicken Tostadas are always a hit at our family table. With crispy tortillas, flavorful chicken, and melted cheese, this meal brings everyone together for a joyful bite. They’re easy to prepare and totally customizable for your cravings!
BBQ Chicken Tostadas
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 Parchment Paper
- 1 bowl
- 1 Oven
- 1 Brush for oil
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded (rotisserie works great)
- 0.5 cup barbecue sauce your favorite
- 8 pieces corn tortillas or flour tortillas for a softer bite
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 0.5 cup black beans rinsed and drained, optional
- 0.25 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 0.5 cup diced tomato or salsa
- 0.5 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 0.25 cup cilantro leaves
- 0.25 cup jalapeño slices optional, for heat
- 1 tbsp olive oil for brushing tortillas
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place tortillas on the baking sheet and lightly brush with olive oil. Bake for 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.
- In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
- Spoon the BBQ chicken and black beans onto each tortilla. Sprinkle with cheese and return to the oven for 3-4 minutes, just until melted.
- Top with lettuce, tomato or salsa, red onion, sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños. Serve immediately for maximum crunch!
Notes
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Tostadas
These tostadas hit that sweet spot between crunchy and savory, with tender shredded chicken tossed in smoky barbecue sauce, creamy toppings, and a fresh bite from crisp veggies. Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back gatherings.
BBQ Chicken Tostadas Ingredients & Substitutions
- Cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie works great)
- Your favorite barbecue sauce
- Corn tortillas (flour tortillas for a softer bite)
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Black beans, rinsed and drained (optional, for extra protein)
- Chopped red onion
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomato or salsa
- Sour cream or plain yogurt
- Cilantro leaves
- Jalapeño slices (for a little heat, if you like)
You can swap the cheese for a non-dairy alternative and use leftover turkey or even chickpeas instead of chicken for a twist. Flour tortillas are also a good swap if you prefer them over corn.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make BBQ Chicken Tostadas
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 400 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Crisp the Tortillas
Place tortillas on the baking sheet and lightly brush with olive oil. Bake for 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.
Step 3: Mix the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Tostadas
Spoon the BBQ chicken and black beans onto each tortilla. Sprinkle with cheese and return to the oven for 3-4 minutes, just until melted.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Top with lettuce, tomato or salsa, red onion, sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños. Serve immediately for maximum crunch!
Tips for Success
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Bake tortillas just before serving so they stay crisp.
- Let everyone top their own for a fun meal or party option.
Variations of BBQ Chicken Tostadas
- Swap chicken for turkey or use chickpeas for a plant-based option.
- Add corn, avocado, or pickled onions for extra flavor.
- Try different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with BBQ Chicken Tostadas
- Serve with a simple salad or corn on the cob.
- Pair with rice and beans for a hearty meal.
- Offer lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store toppings and tortillas separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Re-crisp tortillas in the oven for a few minutes. Reheat chicken and beans on the stove or microwave before assembling.
Memories Made Around the Table
I love watching everyone build their own tostada, laughing and sharing stories, with crunches and smiles filling the room. It’s a dish that always brings out a little fun and creativity.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce?
Yes, any barbecue sauce you love will work perfectly in this recipe.
How do I keep the tostadas from getting soggy?
Always bake the tortillas until crisp and assemble just before eating to maintain crunch.
Can I make these ahead for a party?
You can prep all the components ahead of time. Just assemble and bake with cheese right before serving.
Final Thoughts
BBQ Chicken Tostadas are the perfect mix of easy and delicious. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser, everyone’s invited to the table. Try them once, and they’re sure to become a repeat favorite!