Rotisserie Chicken Tostadas are a quick and tasty way to bring some crunch and bold flavors to your table. Crispy tostada shells loaded with juicy shredded rotisserie chicken, fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese, plus a drizzle of tangy salsa or creamy avocado. This dish comes together fast and always hits the spot when you want something satisfying but simple.
I love using rotisserie chicken because it saves so much time and adds great flavor without any extra effort. It’s my go-to when I want a meal that feels homemade but doesn’t keep me stuck in the kitchen. I usually add a little squeeze of lime and some chopped cilantro on top to brighten up each bite. It’s the little touches that make these tostadas super tasty and fun to eat.
Serving these tostadas with a cold drink and a side of beans or corn salad makes for a perfect casual dinner or even a party snack. Everyone appreciates how easy they are to customize—add extra jalapeños if you like a kick or swap in your favorite cheese. For me, piling on all the toppings and taking that first crunchy bite is pure comfort food happiness.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds great flavor. You can also use leftover roasted chicken or shredded cooked chicken breast as alternatives.
Tostada Shells: You can buy pre-made tostada shells, or make your own by frying or baking corn tortillas until crispy. For a lighter option, bake tortillas instead of frying.
Avocado: Ripe avocado adds creaminess and freshness. If you don’t have avocado, try using a dollop of sour cream or a guacamole spread.
Salsa or Enchilada Sauce: These add moisture and spice to the chicken. If you like it mild, swap for a mild salsa or tomato sauce mixed with a pinch of cumin and chili powder.
Queso Fresco or Cotija Cheese: These crumbly cheeses add a mild salty flavor. You can substitute with feta or even shredded mozzarella if needed.
How Can You Keep Tostadas Crispy With Moist Ingredients?
The biggest challenge is keeping the tostada shell crispy while adding juicy toppings. Here’s how I make sure they stay crunchy:
- Spread the creamy avocado on first—this creates a barrier that protects the shell.
- Drain excess liquid from salsa/sauce before mixing it with the chicken.
- Assemble just before serving to avoid sogginess.
- If you want to prepare ahead, keep chicken and toppings separate and assemble at the last minute.
Following these tips helps the tostadas stay crisp so you get that delightful crunch with every bite!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet or plate – for holding prepped toppings and assembled tostadas.
- Mixing bowls – for combining the chicken with sauce and mashing the avocado.
- Fork or potato masher – to mash the avocado easily and smoothly.
- Knife and cutting board – for slicing onions, cilantro, and optional jalapeños.
- Spoon – for spreading the mashed avocado evenly on each shell.
- Serving platter – to display and serve the finished tostadas.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shredded chicken for cooked ground beef or turkey for a different protein twist.
- Add sliced avocado or guacamole on top for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Include chopped radishes or shredded lettuce for added crunch and freshness.
- Spice things up with pickled jalapeños, hot sauce, or a drizzle of sriracha for heat.
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Tostadas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 tostada shells (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- ½ cup salsa or enchilada sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ¼ cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onions
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Optional: sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Since the chicken is already cooked, you’ll mostly be mixing, mashing, and assembling. It’s a quick meal ideal for busy days or when you want something tasty in a flash.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken with Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken with the salsa or enchilada sauce. Stir well so the chicken is nicely coated with the sauce.
2. Prepare the Avocado Spread:
In a small bowl, mash the ripe avocado with lime juice, salt, and pepper. Keep it slightly chunky so it has a nice texture.
3. Assemble the Tostadas:
Spread a spoonful of the mashed avocado over each tostada shell. Then top with the sauced shredded chicken, dividing it evenly. Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese on top, followed by the thinly sliced red onions and fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of freshness.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tostadas immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top just before eating. If you like some heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Enjoy the crunchy, flavorful combination!
Can I Use Frozen Rotisserie Chicken?
Yes! Just make sure it’s fully thawed before shredding. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting, then pat dry to avoid extra moisture on your tostadas.
Can I Make These Tostadas Ahead of Time?
It’s best to prepare the chicken mixture and avocado spread ahead, but assemble the tostadas right before serving to keep the shells crispy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store tostada shells separately to prevent sogginess and assemble fresh when ready to eat.
What Can I Substitute for Queso Fresco?
If you don’t have queso fresco or cotija, feta or mozzarella cheese work well as alternatives and provide a similar salty, crumbly texture.
