Chicken Tostadas with Refried Beans is a vibrant, flavorful Mexican-inspired dish that brings together the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Crispy tostada shells form the base, layered with creamy refried beans, tender shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of zesty sauce.

Each bite bursts with savory, spicy, and tangy notes, offering a meal that is both satisfying and fun to eat. This dish captures the essence of traditional Mexican street food while being easy enough to prepare at home for a quick weeknight dinner or festive gathering.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the ultimate mix of comfort and freshness. The crispy tostada contrasts beautifully with the creamy beans and juicy chicken, while the toppings—like crisp lettuce, tangy salsa, and cool sour cream—add layers of flavor. It’s also a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize, whether you prefer spicy jalapeños or mild guacamole.

Every component works together to create a dish that’s bold, colorful, and deeply satisfying. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on busy nights yet impressive enough for entertaining.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Chicken Tostadas with Refried Beans recipe is a must-try because it offers a perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. You don’t need elaborate ingredients—just a few staples from your pantry and fridge.

It’s an excellent way to use leftover chicken or beans, and the toppings can be adjusted to your liking. This dish embodies the heart of Mexican cuisine: layered textures, contrasting temperatures, and bold, irresistible flavors. It’s a wholesome meal that’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 380 kcal per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

• 8 tostada shells (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 ½ cups refried beans (homemade or canned)
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• ½ cup diced red onion
• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco)
• ¼ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
• ¼ cup salsa or pico de gallo
• 1 avocado, sliced or mashed
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Cooking Directions

1. Warm the shredded chicken in a skillet over medium heat with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes or until heated through.
2. In another saucepan, heat the refried beans until creamy and warm. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the texture.
3. Arrange tostada shells on a baking sheet and lightly warm them in the oven for 3–4 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
4. Spread a generous layer of refried beans on each tostada shell.
5. Top with the seasoned chicken, followed by lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, and shredded cheese.
6. Add avocado slices and drizzle sour cream or crema on top.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken – Heat olive oil in a skillet, add the cooked chicken, and season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir for a few minutes until fragrant and well-coated.
Step 2: Warm the Refried Beans – In a small pan, reheat the beans, stirring occasionally until smooth. If they’re too thick, mix in a little water or broth.
Step 3: Crisp the Tostadas – Place tostada shells in the oven for a few minutes until crisp and warm.
Step 4: Assemble – Spread a layer of refried beans on each tostada. Add a spoonful of chicken and then top with lettuce, tomatoes, onion, cheese, avocado, and any preferred toppings.
Step 5: Finish and Serve – Drizzle with sour cream, add cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.

How to Serve

Serve the tostadas immediately after assembling to maintain their crispiness. Pair them with a side of Mexican rice, grilled corn, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a party-style setup, set out the components in bowls so guests can build their own tostadas to taste.

Recipe Tips

• Crispness Matters: Always assemble tostadas just before serving to prevent sogginess.
• Use Fresh Toppings: Freshly chopped vegetables add crunch and color.
• Homemade Beans: If time allows, make your own refried beans for an authentic flavor boost.
• Spice It Up: Add jalapeño slices or drizzle with hot sauce for a kick.
• Balance Textures: Combine creamy, crunchy, and tangy elements for a well-rounded taste.

Variations

• Vegetarian Tostadas: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or black beans.
• Beef or Pork Tostadas: Substitute chicken with shredded beef or carnitas for a richer flavor.
• Healthy Option: Use baked tostada shells and low-fat refried beans to cut down calories.
• Breakfast Tostadas: Top with scrambled eggs, salsa, and avocado for a morning twist.
• Seafood Tostadas: Use grilled shrimp or fish and top with cabbage slaw and a drizzle of chipotle mayo.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken and beans separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The seasoned chicken and refried beans can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before assembling.
• Tostada Shells: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain crispness.
• Do Not Freeze Assembled Tostadas: They lose texture when thawed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet (for warming tostadas)
• Non-stick skillet (for heating chicken)
• Saucepan (for refried beans)
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Mixing bowls for toppings

FAQ

Q1: Can I use corn tortillas instead of tostada shells?
Yes. Simply bake or fry corn tortillas until crispy to make homemade tostadas.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and beans ahead, but assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Q3: Are refried beans healthy?
Yes, especially if you make them at home using minimal oil and seasoning.

Q4: What cheese works best?
Mexican cheese blends, queso fresco, or Monterey Jack are ideal choices.

Q5: How can I make it spicier?
Add hot sauce, jalapeños, or chipotle peppers for extra heat.

Conclusion

Chicken Tostadas with Refried Beans is a delicious fusion of texture, color, and flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making a quick family dinner or hosting friends, this dish delivers satisfaction every time. Its versatility allows endless customization, ensuring everyone gets their favorite combination of toppings. The crisp tostada shell, creamy beans, seasoned chicken, and fresh garnishes create an unforgettable bite that celebrates the best of Mexican cuisine—simple, bold, and irresistibly delicious.