Name: Satisfy Your Cravings with BBQ Chicken Tostadas Tonight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 pieces Tostada Shells or Corn Tortillas (Store-bought or homemade); 2 cups Cooked and Shredded Chicken (Leftover rotisserie chicken works well); 1/2 cup Barbecue Sauce (Choose your favorite brand); 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella, Cheddar, or Monterey Jack); 2 tablespoons Green Onions (Optional; substitute with cilantro if desired)

There’s something magical about the combination of crunchy, crispy flavors with a touch of smoky sweetness. That’s exactly what my Quick & Easy BBQ Chicken Tostadas deliver, with tender shredded chicken coated in zesty barbecue sauce, all piled high on crispy corn tortillas. This dish isn’t just quick; it’s a satisfying, gluten-free meal that you can whip up in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you’re craving something homemade but don’t have much time to spare. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with these mouthwatering tostadas? Let’s dive in!

Why BBQ Chicken Tostadas are Irresistible?

Quick preparation: These BBQ Chicken Tostadas can be ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight.
Crisp and Crunchy: Enjoy the satisfying contrast of crispy tortillas topped with juicy, tender chicken and gooey cheese.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or cilantro for a personal twist.
Healthy option: Gluten-free and filled with protein, these tostadas provide a well-rounded meal.
Crowd-pleaser: The smoky sweetness of the barbecue sauce makes these a hit for family dinners or gatherings.
Feeling inspired? Pair these tostadas with a fresh green salad or try out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken for a complete meal!

BBQ Chicken Tostadas Ingredients

For the Tostadas
• Tostada Shells or Corn Tortillas – Use store-bought or bake your own for a homemade touch.
• Cooked and Shredded Chicken – Leftover rotisserie chicken works great for this dish.

For the Toppings
• Barbecue Sauce – Choose your favorite brand to elevate the flavor of the BBQ Chicken Tostadas.
• Shredded Cheese (Mozzarella, Cheddar, or Monterey Jack) – A mix of cheeses provides a delightful melty experience.
• Green Onions (optional) – Add a fresh crunch; substitute with cilantro if desired.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Barbecue Chicken Tostadas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your BBQ Chicken Tostadas will bake evenly and come out perfectly crispy. While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients and prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare Tostada Shells
Arrange your tostada shells or corn tortillas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. If you’re using corn tortillas, now is the perfect time to brush them lightly with olive oil for added crispiness. This small step will elevate the texture, making your base deliciously crunchy once baked.

Step 3: Mix the Chicken and Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with half of your favorite barbecue sauce. Stir until the chicken is well-coated and the sauce is evenly distributed. This mixture will be the star topping for your Barbecue Chicken Tostadas, so ensure it’s packed with flavor to delight every bite.

Step 4: Assemble the Tostadas
Evenly distribute the barbecue chicken mixture onto the tostada shells, making sure to spread it out for even coverage. Each tostada should have a generous helping of chicken to ensure that every guest can enjoy a hearty bite. The vibrant colors and mix of textures will get everyone’s appetite going!

Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the chicken on each tostada. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, delectable topping that complements the smoky barbecue sauce. Use a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack for a delightful melted texture and rich flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 8 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake; they are done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. This will create a beautiful, inviting presentation for your Barbecue Chicken Tostadas.

Step 7: Drizzle and Garnish
Remove the tostadas from the oven, and drizzle the remaining barbecue sauce over the melted cheese and chicken. This final touch enhances the flavor and adds a lovely sheen. For an extra crunch and pop of color, garnish with sliced green onions or your preferred fresh herbs before serving.

Storage Tips for BBQ Chicken Tostadas

Fridge: Store any leftover BBQ Chicken Tostadas in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled tostadas in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain the crispy texture. Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Tostadas warm and flavorful!
Assembly Tip: For best results, freeze the toppings separately if making ahead; assemble before reheating for optimal freshness.

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Chicken Tostadas are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the shredded chicken mixed with barbecue sauce up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the tostadas (without baking) and keep them wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days. Just be sure to separate the tostada shells to maintain their crispness. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the tostadas at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and you’ll enjoy that homemade flavor just as if they were freshly made!

Barbecue Chicken Tostadas Variations

Explore the exciting possibilities of customizing your BBQ Chicken Tostadas to suit your cravings and dietary preferences.

Pulled Pork: Swap shredded chicken for pulled pork for a hearty, smoky twist that will change up your flavor game.
Vegan Delight: Use jackfruit or chickpeas mixed with barbecue sauce for a plant-based alternative that packs a punch.
Spicy Kick: Switch to a spicy barbecue sauce or add diced jalapeños for those who love a little heat in their life.
Cheesy Bliss: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or feta for more adventurous flavor profiles that will tantalize your taste buds.
Zesty Toppings: Top with fresh avocado slices or a squeeze of lime juice right before serving for a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens each bite.
Grilled Veggies: Throw in some grilled bell peppers or zucchini on top of the chicken for an added layer of nutrition and tasty texture.
Sweet Twist: Add pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory flavor combination that perfectly complements the barbecue sauce.

Feeling creative? You might also want to serve these tasty tostadas alongside a fresh green salad or pair them with my delicious French Onion Chicken for a delightful meal experience!

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Tostadas

Elevate your BBQ Chicken Tostadas experience with complementing sides that create a delightful meal filled with flavor and texture.

Fresh Green Salad: A crunchy salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette perfectly balances the richness of the tostadas. The coolness of fresh vegetables provides a refreshing contrast.
Coleslaw: Creamy and tangy coleslaw adds crunch and a hint of sweetness, making it a fantastic side dish that enhances the savory elements of your BBQ Chicken Tostadas.
Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip provides a rich, luscious texture and fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with the smoky barbecue notes.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob drizzled with lime and chili powder adds an additional layer of sweetness and a delightful pop of flavor.
Pico de Gallo: Bright and refreshing, this salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds a splash of acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese and chicken.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside your tostadas for an extra crunch. They can be enjoyed with guacamole or salsa for a vibrant appetizer option.

These sides not only enhance your meal but also create a comforting atmosphere perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Enjoy every bite!

Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Tostadas

Pre-bake for Crispiness: Baking your corn tortillas for 3-5 minutes before adding toppings will ensure crisply satisfying BBQ Chicken Tostadas.
Flavor Infusion: Mixing the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce beforehand ensures each bite bursts with flavor, preventing blandness.
Topping Options: Feel free to customize with toppings like sliced avocados, fresh jalapeños, or pico de gallo for added flavor and freshness!
Watch the Cheese: Keep an eye on the baking process to avoid burnt cheese—remove as soon as it’s melted and bubbling.
Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven to maintain that perfect crunch.

BBQ Chicken Tostadas Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for BBQ Chicken Tostadas?
Absolutely! When choosing ingredients, opt for firm, fresh corn tortillas without dark spots or blemishes. If you’re using green onions, select those with bright green tops and firm white bulbs for optimal crunch. Freshness ensures vibrant flavors in your BBQ Chicken Tostadas!

How should I store leftover BBQ Chicken Tostadas?
Very simple! Place any uneaten BBQ Chicken Tostadas in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain that irresistible crunch, consider storing the ingredients separately and assembling them fresh each time you want to enjoy them.

Can I freeze assembled BBQ Chicken Tostadas?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the assembled BBQ Chicken Tostadas on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer until they’re firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Just remember to reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for the best results.

What should I do if my cheese isn’t melting well?
If your cheese isn’t melting as it should, you might need to give it a little longer in the oven. Make sure that the oven is fully preheated before baking, and consider using a cheese that melts well, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack. If the cheese is browning too quickly, you can cover the tostadas loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while allowing the cheese to melt completely.

Are BBQ Chicken Tostadas safe for my pet?
It’s best to keep BBQ Chicken Tostadas away from pets. Garlic and onion — commonly found in BBQ sauces — can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always ensure that any leftovers are safely stored out of their reach to avoid any potential health issues.

Can I make BBQ Chicken Tostadas gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make your BBQ Chicken Tostadas gluten-free, simply use corn tortillas instead of traditional flour tortillas. Double-check that your barbecue sauce is also gluten-free, ensuring that you can enjoy this delicious dish without worry.