Pin
Mexican Rotisserie Chicken Tostadas make weeknight dinners exciting and seriously easy. You get crispy tortillas piled high with juicy chicken, black beans, sweet corn, melty cheese, and all the zesty toppings you crave. This recipe became my lifesaver for last-minute gatherings where I wanted big flavor and zero fuss.
My family always lights up when I bring these to the table. I first whipped them up on a busy back-to-school night and they have been on repeat since nobody gets bored and everyone builds their perfect tostada.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Corn tortillas: These make the perfect crisp base go for fresh local tortillas if you can for better flavor
- Cooking oil: For brushing the tortillas so they bake crunchy choose a neutral oil like canola or avocado
- Canned corn: Adds a burst of sweetness look for cans labeled no salt added if you want more control
- Cooked chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken keeps things juicy and fast select a chicken with flavorful seasoning when possible
- Salsa: Adds moisture and punch opt for a fresh salsa from your grocery store fridge section for big flavor
- Taco seasoning mix: A fast flavor boost choose a brand with no added sugar for the boldest taste
- Black beans: Offer creaminess and protein always rinse and drain well for clean flavor
- Colby jack cheese: Melts beautifully and adds richness buy it as a block and shred yourself for best results
How to Make It
- Prep and Crisp the Tortillas:
- Arrange tortillas on a baking sheet in a single layer. Brush both sides lightly with oil. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 6 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Flip halfway and watch closely as they can brown quickly at the end. Perfect crunch comes from drying them out completely.
- Season and Warm the Chicken:
- In a large skillet combine the shredded chicken salsa and taco seasoning. Warm over medium heat for several minutes stirring so everything is evenly coated. The salsa soaks in and builds incredible flavor. Taste for spiciness and add a pinch more seasoning if you want a little more heat.
- Prepare the Corn and Beans:
- In a small saucepan warm the drained corn and black beans together just until heated through. This takes about 3 minutes over medium heat. Stir gently so the beans stay whole. Heating everything first keeps your tostadas from getting soggy and makes every bite cozy.
- Assemble the Tostadas:
- Lay out the crisped tortillas and spread a generous spoonful of warm beans and corn on each. Top with the seasoned chicken mixture spreading evenly to the edges. Sprinkle each with a thick layer of shredded colby jack cheese. The heat helps the cheese melt while you work.
- Finish and Serve:
- If you like your cheese gooey pop each assembled tostada into the still-warm oven for 2 minutes. Otherwise add plenty of fresh cilantro over the cheese and bring them straight to the table. Serve immediately for best crunch and flavor.
Colby jack cheese is hands down my favorite topping because it melts smooth and adds a buttery finish. One of my favorite memories is letting my kids decorate their tostadas with colorful salsas and fresh herbs and watching everyone get creative with their own edible masterpieces.
Flavor Boosters
Keep leftover components separate in airtight containers for up to three days. Warm the chicken and beans before assembling fresh tostadas so they stay crisp. Do not store assembled tostadas as the tortillas soften quickly in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with lots of fresh lime wedges to brighten each bite. Sliced radishes and pickled onions on the side add color and zing. A little drizzle of Mexican crema or sour cream cools things down and adds richness.
Creative Twists
Swap rotisserie chicken for leftover steak carnitas or even shredded jackfruit for a plant-based spin. Pinto beans or refried beans work in place of black beans if you want a creamier base. Pepper jack cheese brings a little heat and can be swapped for colby jack.
Mexican Rotisserie Chicken Tostadas are always a hit just because everyone can build their own version. Make them once and you will have a new family favorite for any busy night.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → What type of chicken works best for this dish?
Shredded rotisserie chicken provides convenience and a smoky flavor that blends well with the other ingredients.
- → Can I substitute black beans with another type of bean?
Yes, pinto or kidney beans can be used as alternatives while maintaining texture and taste.
- → How should I prepare the tortillas for tostadas?
Lightly fry or bake the corn tortillas until crispy to provide a sturdy base for the toppings.
- → What kind of salsa is recommended?
Either store-bought or homemade salsa works well; choose one with balanced acidity and spice to complement the toppings.
- → Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can easily increase the heat to your preference.