Chicken Tostadas

These Chicken Tostadas are a delicious, flavorful Mexican dish that combines smoky, savory chicken tinga with crispy tortillas and a variety of fresh toppings. This recipe is full of bold flavors, with tender chicken simmered in a rich, spicy sauce and served over a crunchy base. It’s a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The smoky and spicy chicken tinga is the star of this dish, providing rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy tostadas. The combination of creamy refried beans, fresh shredded lettuce, and tangy toppings like cotija cheese, crema, and salsa takes the tostadas to the next level. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing meal that’s full of texture and flavor, making it a family favorite!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tinga:

• 3 large chicken breasts (or equivalent chicken thighs)

• 6 oz smoked chicken sausage

• 1 white onion, chopped (or yellow onion)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 15 oz can diced tomatoes (do not drain)

• 3 chipotles in adobo sauce, plus some of the sauce (add more for extra spice)

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 3 bay leaves

For Serving:

• 8 corn tortillas (fried or baked)

• 1 cup refried beans

• Crumbled cotija or queso fresco

• Crema or sour cream

• Shredded lettuce

• Diced avocado

• Salsa or other favorite toppings

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

Directions

To make the Chicken Tinga:

1. Cook the sausage: Heat oil in a Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the smoked chicken sausage, breaking it up into small pieces.

2. Sauté onions and garlic: Add the chopped onions and cook for 4–6 minutes, until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Add tomatoes and chipotles: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and chipotles in adobo sauce. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Add seasonings and broth: Stir in the seasonings (salt, pepper, oregano, thyme) and chicken broth. Add the chicken breasts and bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Simmer the chicken: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 90 minutes, or until the chicken is very tender and easily shredded.

6. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to absorb the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, and add more adobo sauce for extra heat if desired.

7. Remove excess liquid: Remove the chicken and vegetables with a slotted spoon, leaving the excess liquid in the pot. (Save the liquid for cooking rice or other dishes!)

To assemble the tostadas:

1. Prepare the tortillas: Spread a layer of refried beans on top of each fried or baked corn tortilla.

2. Assemble the tostadas: Add a layer of shredded lettuce, then top with the chicken tinga.

3. Garnish: Garnish with crumbled cotija or queso fresco, crema, diced avocado, salsa, and any other toppings of your choice.

4. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like lentils or beans for a vegetarian version.

• Extra Spice: Add more chipotle peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper to the tinga for extra heat.

• Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as pickled onions, jalapeños, or cilantro, for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Storage: Leftover chicken tinga will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken tinga in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I make the chicken tinga ahead of time?

Yes, the chicken tinga can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Simply reheat when ready to serve.

2. Can I use store-bought tortillas?

Yes, you can use store-bought tortillas and fry or bake them for a crispy base.

3. Can I make these tostadas spicier?

Absolutely! You can add extra chipotle peppers, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to make the chicken tinga as spicy as you like.

4. Can I use different cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like queso blanco, mozzarella, or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

5. How can I make these tostadas gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free corn tortillas and check that the refried beans are gluten-free.

6. Can I freeze leftover chicken tinga?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken tinga for up to 3 months. Reheat it in a skillet when ready to serve.

7. What other toppings can I use?

In addition to the suggested toppings, you can add guacamole, pickled jalapeños, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for more flavor.

8. Can I use a slow cooker for the chicken tinga?

Yes, you can cook the chicken tinga in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.

9. Can I add more vegetables to the chicken tinga?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the chicken tinga for extra flavor and texture.

10. Can I serve the chicken tinga with something other than tostadas?

Yes, you can serve the chicken tinga with rice, in tacos, or as a filling for burritos.

Conclusion

These Chicken Tostadas are a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to please your taste buds. The smoky, spicy chicken tinga topped with fresh and creamy ingredients makes each bite a delicious experience. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or at a party, they’re a guaranteed hit!

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