There’s something about BBQ Chicken Tostadas that just screams summer, isn’t there? I remember the first time I tried them – I was at a backyard barbecue, the sun was shining, and I was chatting with friends while the smell of smoky chicken wafted through the air. One bite of those crunchy, flavorful tostadas, piled high with perfectly seasoned chicken and all my favorite toppings, and I was hooked! Okay, I may have eaten three.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can make it as spicy or mild as you like, and you can top it with anything that strikes your fancy – from creamy avocado to zesty pickled onions. Plus, these tostadas are a fantastic way to get everyone involved in the kitchen; you can set up a toppings bar and let your friends and family create their own masterpieces. Let’s dive into this summery delight!
What’s in BBQ Chicken Tostadas?
Chicken: This is the star of the show! I usually opt for boneless chicken thighs because they’re juicy and packed with flavor. You can cook them in the oven, grill them, or even use store-bought rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.
BBQ Sauce: You can go homemade or store-bought – I love using a smoky, tangy sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in some sriracha for an extra kick!
Tostada Shells: Crunchy and satisfying, tostada shells provide the perfect base. You can find them at any grocery store or make your own by baking corn tortillas until crispy.
Toppings: The options here are endless! I like to use shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, avocado slices, sour cream, and jalapeños. Get creative!
Is BBQ Chicken Tostadas Good for You?
These tasty tostadas can definitely have some health benefits if balanced right!
Chicken: Packed with protein, chicken helps build and repair muscles. Opting for skinless chicken can reduce the saturated fat content too!
Avocado: Creamy and delicious, avocados are rich in healthy fats and are a great source of potassium and fiber – plus, they add a wonderful taste!
Tostadas: Using whole corn tortillas can give you some fiber, though they may still be higher in calories if you use too many. Moderation is key!
One thing to keep in mind is the BBQ sauce, as it can be high in sugar. If you’re watching your sugar intake, consider making your own sauce or opting for a low-sugar version.
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs (or rotisserie chicken)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 8 tostada shells
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 avocado, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– Sour cream for drizzling (optional)
– Sliced jalapeños (optional)
This recipe serves about 4 people.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Tostadas?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (if you’re cooking the chicken).
2. If you’re using raw chicken, season the thighs with salt and pepper. Place them in a baking dish and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through. Shred the chicken using two forks once cooled.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce, mixing until the chicken is well coated.
4. While the chicken cools, prepare your tostada shells according to package instructions or bake corn tortillas until crispy.
5. To assemble a tostada, take a crispy tostada shell and spoon a generous amount of the BBQ chicken onto it.
6. Top with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, cilantro, and any other toppings you fancy.
7. Drizzle with sour cream if desired, and serve immediately!
Get Creative with Your Toppings
Feel free to switch things up! You can add corn, black beans, or even some pineapple for a sweet twist. If you’re in a playful mood, why not have a friendly tostada-making contest with your friends? Everyone can bring their favorite toppings, and before you know it, you’ll have an impressive spread of deliciousness on the table!
I truly hope you give these BBQ Chicken Tostadas a try! They’re a fun, casual meal that’s perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon at home. If you do make them, I’d love to hear how they turn out for you, so feel free to share your creations! Happy cooking!
