Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable – Add your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, or jalapeños.
Great for Leftovers – Use leftover shredded chicken to make this meal even easier.
Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and smoky barbecue flavor.
Crunchy and Satisfying – The crispy tostada shell pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and fresh toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Tostada shells
Cooked shredded chicken
Barbecue sauce
Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
Black beans (optional)
Red onion, thinly sliced
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Cherry tomatoes, diced
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Avocado, sliced
Jalapeños (optional for heat)
Lime wedges for serving

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the chicken by mixing shredded chicken with barbecue sauce in a bowl until fully coated.
Assemble the tostadas by placing tostada shells on a baking sheet. Spread a layer of black beans (if using) on each shell.
Add the toppings by spooning the barbecue chicken onto the tostadas and sprinkling shredded cheese on top.
Bake for about 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with red onion, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, avocado, and jalapeños.
Serve immediately with sour cream or Greek yogurt and lime wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or use a spicy barbecue sauce.
Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for black beans or grilled veggies.
Low-Carb: Use lettuce leaves instead of tostada shells.
Different Protein: Try pulled pork, shredded beef, or grilled shrimp instead of chicken.
Extra Crunch: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top for added texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover tostadas separately. Keep the barbecue chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stove. Assemble fresh tostadas and bake for a few minutes to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

How do I keep tostadas crispy?

To keep them crispy, store tostada shells in an airtight container and assemble them just before serving.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works great and saves time. Simply shred and mix with barbecue sauce.

What’s the best barbecue sauce to use?

Choose your favorite store-bought sauce or make a homemade version with a balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Assemble the tostadas and air fry at 350°F for about 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.

What can I use instead of tostada shells?

Try crispy corn tortillas, pita chips, or even a low-carb wrap toasted until crispy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and toppings in advance, but assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.

Are these tostadas gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free tostada shells and barbecue sauce.

What toppings go well with barbecue chicken tostadas?

Avocado, sour cream, red onion, cilantro, jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime are all great options.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just thaw and shred the chicken before mixing it with barbecue sauce.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese or skip it altogether. Add extra avocado for creaminess.

Conclusion

Barbecue Chicken Tostadas are an easy, flavorful meal that comes together in no time. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, they’re sure to be a hit with their perfect combination of smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors. Try out different toppings and variations to make them your own, and enjoy this crispy, delicious dish

Barbecue Chicken Tostadas

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These Barbecue Chicken Tostadas are a crispy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish featuring crunchy tostadas topped with smoky BBQ chicken, melty cheese, and fresh toppings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer!

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 tostadas
Category: Dinner, Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce until evenly coated.
Assemble the tostadas: Place tostada shells on a baking sheet. Spread a layer of black beans, then top with BBQ chicken. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Bake for 7–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Add toppings: Remove from the oven and top with corn, red onion, jalapeño, cherry tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado, and cilantro.
Serve: Drizzle with sour cream, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top, and enjoy!

Notes

Swap chicken for shredded beef or jackfruit for a vegetarian version.
Use store-bought tostadas or make your own by baking or frying corn tortillas.
Add a spicy kick with hot sauce or extra jalapeños.