These BBQ Chicken Tostadas are a weeknight favorite that come together quickly and make the whole family happy. Each crispy tostada is piled high with savory BBQ chicken, fresh toppings, and a creamy drizzle, making every bite satisfying and fun.
BBQ Chicken Tostadas
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Small Pan or Microwave for warming chicken
- 1 Knife and cutting board for prepping toppings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 corn tostada shells
- 2 cup cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 0.5 cup BBQ sauce check for alcohol-free
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 0.5 cup canned black beans rinsed and drained
- 0.5 cup cherry tomatoes diced
- 0.25 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 0.5 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella work well
- 0.25 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Creamy Drizzle
- 0.25 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Warm gently in a pan or microwave.
- Shred lettuce, dice tomatoes, slice onion, and rinse black beans. Set aside all your toppings for easy assembly.
- Place tostada shells on plates. Layer each with BBQ chicken, black beans, lettuce, tomatoes, and onion. Sprinkle with cheese and cilantro.
- Mix sour cream or yogurt with lime juice. Drizzle over each tostada right before serving.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Tostadas
These tostadas are packed with flavor, and you can easily customize the toppings to match your cravings or what you have on hand. The crunchy base, sweet and smoky chicken, and colorful veggies are guaranteed to brighten up any meal.
BBQ Chicken Tostadas Ingredients & Substitutions
- 8 corn tostada shells
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (check for alcohol-free)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work well)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
If needed, swap chicken for rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken, and use dairy-free cheese or yogurt for a different twist. The BBQ sauce can be swapped with tomato-based sauce plus a touch of honey, vinegar, and smoked paprika if you want to go homemade.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make BBQ Chicken Tostadas
Step 1: Prepare the BBQ Chicken
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Warm gently in a pan or microwave.
Step 2: Prep the Toppings
Shred lettuce, dice tomatoes, slice onion, and rinse black beans. Set aside all your toppings for easy assembly.
Step 3: Assemble the Tostadas
Place tostada shells on plates. Layer each with BBQ chicken, black beans, lettuce, tomatoes, and onion. Sprinkle with cheese and cilantro.
Step 4: Add Creamy Drizzle
Mix sour cream or yogurt with lime juice. Drizzle over each tostada right before serving.
Tips for Success
- Warm the tostada shells in the oven for a few minutes to make them extra crispy.
- Prep all toppings ahead for quick assembly at mealtime.
- Keep the creamy drizzle in a small zip bag, snip the corner, and drizzle for easy topping.
Variations of BBQ Chicken Tostadas
- Try turkey or ground beef in place of chicken for a new flavor.
- Add sliced avocados or guacamole for creaminess.
- Spicy BBQ fans can add a sprinkle of chili flakes or jalapeño slices.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with BBQ Chicken Tostadas
- Serve with a fresh chopped salad or corn on the cob.
- Pair with rice and beans or a side of pico de gallo.
- Iced tea or lemonade goes perfectly with these vibrant tostadas.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store all components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm the BBQ chicken and beans, then assemble on fresh tostada shells to keep them crisp.
Memories Made Around the Table
We often make BBQ Chicken Tostadas for casual family nights when everyone picks their own toppings. It’s a meal full of laughter and second helpings, especially at summertime gatherings.
FAQs
How can I make these tostadas ahead?
Prep the chicken, toppings, and creamy drizzle in advance. Just assemble right before serving for the best crunch.
What type of BBQ sauce works best?
Any alcohol-free BBQ sauce you love will work. Smoky, sweet, or spicy varieties all pair beautifully with chicken.
Can I use flour tortillas instead?
Yes, bake flour tortillas in the oven until crisp for a simple swap if you don’t have corn tostada shells.
Final Thoughts
These BBQ Chicken Tostadas are a cheerful, crowd-pleasing meal. Bring everyone to the table to build their own for a dinner that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious.