These BBQ Chicken Tostadas are a delightful mix of flavor and convenience, making them an excellent choice for easy weeknight dinners or as a tasty gameday snack. With tender, shredded chicken smothered in BBQ sauce atop crispy tortillas, these tostadas stand out with their vibrant toppings and satisfying crunch. Whether you’re hosting friends or just enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken
- For the Tostadas
- How to Make BBQ Chicken Tostadas
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Step 3: Crisp the Tortillas
- Step 4: Prepare Refried Beans
- Step 5: Assemble the Tostadas
- Step 6: Final Bake
- Step 7: Add Fresh Toppings
- Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
- How to Serve BBQ Chicken Tostadas
- With Fresh Salsa
- As a Salad
- With Dips
- On a Platter
- How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Tostadas
- Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Tostadas
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing BBQ Chicken Tostadas
- Reheating BBQ Chicken Tostadas
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
- How do I customize my BBQ Chicken Tostadas?
- Can I make BBQ Chicken Tostadas ahead of time?
- Are these BBQ Chicken Tostadas gluten-free?
- What can I serve with BBQ Chicken Tostadas?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can set up your slow cooker and let it do the work!
- Flavorful Profile: The combination of BBQ sauce and spices creates a deliciously rich taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options: These tostadas can be served as main dishes or appetizers, perfect for any occasion.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy building their own tostadas with their favorite toppings.
- Easy Cleanup: Using a crockpot means fewer pots and pans to wash afterward!
Tools and Preparation
To make your BBQ Chicken Tostadas efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Fork for shredding chicken
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This tool allows you to cook the chicken slowly, making it tender and easy to shred without constant attention.
- Baking sheet: Ideal for crisping up your tortillas in the oven for that perfect crunchy base.
- Oven: Essential for melting cheese and achieving a golden finish on your tostadas.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1.5lb chicken breast
- 1.5 cups BBQ Sauce (additional to drizzle on top)
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Tostadas
- 3 corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup refried beans
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tbsp cilantro
- 3 tbsp red onion, finely diced
- Avocado Oil spray
How to Make BBQ Chicken Tostadas
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Add the chicken breast, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and seasonings (garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, sea salt, black pepper) into the slow cooker.
- Set the slow cooker to high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours.
- Once cooking time is complete, use a fork to shred the chicken inside the crockpot.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit while you prepare your tortillas.
Step 3: Crisp the Tortillas
- Lay each corn tortilla on a baking sheet.
- Lightly spray them with avocado oil spray.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are crispy.
Step 4: Prepare Refried Beans
Heat up your refried beans either on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm.
Step 5: Assemble the Tostadas
- Spread warmed refried beans over each crispy tortilla.
- Top with generous portions of shredded chicken and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Final Bake
Return the assembled tostadas to the oven for 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Add Fresh Toppings
Remove from oven and garnish with chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and an extra drizzle of BBQ sauce.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately while hot for that perfect crunchy bite!
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Tostadas
BBQ Chicken Tostadas are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different occasions. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a casual family dinner, these tostadas will impress everyone.
With Fresh Salsa
- Pico de Gallo: A fresh mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds a zesty touch.
- Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy mango salsa complements the smoky BBQ flavor beautifully.
As a Salad
- Tostada Salad: Crumble the tostadas over a bed of greens and top with your favorite salad ingredients for a refreshing twist.
- Avocado Salad: Serve alongside a creamy avocado salad for added richness and nutrition.
With Dips
- Guacamole: The creaminess of guacamole pairs perfectly with the crunchy tostadas.
- Queso Dip: A warm cheese dip can elevate your BBQ Chicken Tostadas to another level of deliciousness.
On a Platter
- Party Platter: Arrange the tostadas on a large platter with various toppings, allowing guests to customize their own.
- Mini Tostadas: Make smaller versions for appetizers at gatherings, perfect for snacking.

How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Tostadas
To make your BBQ Chicken Tostadas even better, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and presentation.
- Bold seasoning: Use extra spices like cumin or chili powder in your chicken for added depth.
- Crispy tortillas: Bake tortillas until golden brown for an irresistibly crunchy base.
- Fresh toppings: Always use fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for bright flavors.
- Layer wisely: Start with refried beans as a base layer to keep the tortilla from getting soggy.
- Drizzle sauce generously: A drizzle of additional BBQ sauce on top enhances both taste and visual appeal.
Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Tostadas
Pairing side dishes with your BBQ Chicken Tostadas can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some favorites that complement the flavors perfectly.
- Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn topped with cotija cheese and spices adds sweetness and crunch.
- Black Bean Salad: A vibrant mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime makes for a hearty side.
- Rice & Beans: A classic combination that provides additional protein and flavor balance.
- Chips & Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with salsa are always a crowd-pleaser.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and cilantro enhances the meal’s freshness.
- Grilled Veggies: Seasonal grilled vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw offers a cool contrast to the warm tostadas.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate after rich flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making BBQ Chicken Tostadas can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the chicken: If you cook the chicken too long in the crockpot, it can become dry. Set a timer and check for doneness to ensure juicy chicken.
- Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and beans can lead to bland flavor. Use the recommended spices and taste as you go.
- Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas can result in a soggy texture. Ensure they are warmed up before adding toppings for a crispy bite.
- Not preheating the oven: If you place the tostadas in a cold oven, they won’t crisp up properly. Always preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Ignoring toppings: Skipping fresh toppings like cilantro and red onion misses out on flavor and freshness. Add them just before serving for the best taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover BBQ Chicken Tostadas in an airtight container.
- They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Freezing BBQ Chicken Tostadas
- Wrap each tostada tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating BBQ Chicken Tostadas
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tostadas on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet for about 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about BBQ Chicken Tostadas:
Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
You can certainly use store-bought BBQ sauce for convenience! Just make sure it’s one that you enjoy.
How do I customize my BBQ Chicken Tostadas?
Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as jalapeños, corn, or different cheeses for added flavor.
Can I make BBQ Chicken Tostadas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken in advance and assemble the tostadas just before serving.
Are these BBQ Chicken Tostadas gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free corn tortillas, then yes! Check labels when choosing ingredients.
What can I serve with BBQ Chicken Tostadas?
These tostadas pair well with a side salad or some guacamole for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
BBQ Chicken Tostadas are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. They are perfect for weeknight dinners or game day snacks. Customize them with your favorite toppings and enjoy this delicious dish tailored to your taste!
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📖 Recipe Card
PrintBBQ Chicken Tostadas
BBQ Chicken Tostadas are the perfect blend of convenience and flavor, ideal for busy weeknights or game day snacking. Tender shredded chicken simmered in rich BBQ sauce is layered atop crispy corn tortillas, creating a satisfying crunch with each bite. Adorned with vibrant toppings like fresh cilantro and diced red onion, these tostadas are not just delicious but also customizable to suit every palate. Easy to prepare, they offer a fun way to bring the family together for a meal where everyone can build their own tostada masterpiece. Serve them hot and watch as your guests rave over this delightful dish!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Slow cooking and baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb chicken breast
- 1.5 cups BBQ sauce
- 3 corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup refried beans
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh cilantro and diced red onion for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and seasonings in a slow cooker. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 hours until tender. Shred chicken with a fork.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange corn tortillas on a baking sheet, spray with avocado oil, and bake for 10 minutes, flipping halfway until crispy.
- Warm refried beans on the stovetop or microwave.
- Spread refried beans on each tortilla, top with shredded chicken and mozzarella cheese.
- Return to the oven for another 3-4 minutes until cheese melts.
- Garnish with cilantro, red onion, and additional BBQ sauce before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tostada (150g)
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 85mg