Chicken, Guacamole, and Bean Tostadas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers the ultimate combination of textures and flavors. The crispiness of the tostada shells pairs wonderfully with the creamy guacamole, savory refried beans, and the tender chicken. The addition of fresh pico de gallo and a dollop of sour cream takes it to the next level, creating a vibrant, delicious meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. It's quick, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 6 tostada shells, store-bought or homemade

• 2 medium ripe avocados

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, divided

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 1 (16 oz) can Rosarita Traditional Refried Beans

• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies Mild, drained

• ¾ teaspoon ancho chili powder

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• 2 cups shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken or shredded cooked chicken breasts

• 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese

• 1 cup pico de gallo, homemade or store-bought

• 6 tablespoon sour cream

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

Directions

1. Using a fork, mash the avocados with lime juice and ⅛ teaspoon of garlic powder to a slightly chunky texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. In a small saucepan, combine the refried beans, drained canned tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and the remaining ⅛ teaspoon of garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste and cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

3. To assemble the tostadas, layer each tostada shell with the guacamole mixture, followed by the bean mixture, lettuce, chicken, cheese, pico de gallo, and a spoonful of sour cream. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and use extra beans or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version.

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the pico de gallo for an extra spicy twist.

• Swap the Cheese: Use a sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

• Homemade Tostadas: For a homemade touch, make your own tostada shells by brushing corn tortillas with oil and baking them until crispy.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover tostadas separately from the guacamole and sour cream to maintain the crispiness of the tostada shells. The chicken, beans, and guacamole can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and bean mixture in a saucepan over low heat. To keep the tostadas crisp, avoid microwaving them and instead reheat them in the oven for a few minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of beans for this recipe?

Yes, you can use black beans or pinto beans instead of refried beans if you prefer.

2. Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the components ahead of time, but it's best to assemble the tostadas just before serving to keep the shells crispy.

3. How can I make the tostada shells crispy without frying them?

Brush corn tortillas with olive oil, bake them at 400°F for about 4-5 minutes per side, and they will turn out crispy and light.

4. Can I make my own guacamole for this recipe?

Absolutely! To make fresh guacamole, mash ripe avocados with lime juice, garlic powder, cilantro, and salt to taste.

5. How do I store leftover guacamole?

Store leftover guacamole in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning. It will last for about 1 day.

6. Can I use ground chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Yes, ground chicken is a great alternative to shredded chicken in this recipe.

7. Is there a substitute for sour cream?

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan sour cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor.

8. What is pico de gallo?

Pico de gallo is a fresh salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It’s bright, refreshing, and adds a nice crunch to the tostadas.

9. Can I freeze the chicken and bean mixture?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken and bean mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just reheat it before serving.

10. What’s a good side dish to serve with these tostadas?

A fresh salad or some cilantro lime rice would complement the flavors of the tostadas nicely.

Conclusion

These Chicken, Guacamole, and Bean Tostadas are the ultimate in comfort food, with a combination of textures and bold flavors that everyone will enjoy. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. Easy to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious—what’s not to love?