Ingredients:

  • 5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup Chicken broth (low sodium)
  • 1/2 cup Water
  • 1/4 cup Salsa (medium heat)
  • 1 Tbsp Chili powder
  • 1 tsp Ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 6 Corn Tostada Shells
  • 1 (15 oz) can Refried Beans
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 1/2 cups Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion, finely diced
  • 1 large Roma Tomato, seeded and diced
  • 1/2 cup Chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 cup Shredded iceberg or romaine lettuce
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream
  • 1-2 Tbsp Adobo sauce from chipotles in adobo
  • 1 tsp Lime juice

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Chicken: Combine chicken breasts, broth, water, salsa, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook gently for 20-25 minutes until chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temp).
  2. Shred & Reduce: Remove chicken and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pan; simmer the remaining liquid uncovered for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and coats the chicken nicely. Set aside and keep warm.
  3. Prepare the Base Components: Gently heat the refried beans in a small pot, stirring in the garlic powder. Keep warm. Whisk together sour cream, chipotle adobo sauce, lime juice, and salt until smooth to create the Quick Chipotle Crema.
  4. Prepare Tostadas: If using raw tortillas, lightly brush with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until crisp. Otherwise, prepare the shells.
  5. Assemble: Spread a generous spoonful of warm refried beans evenly over each tostada shell, then top with the warm shredded chicken, followed by the shredded cheese.
  6. Melt the Cheese: Place assembled tostadas on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  7. Garnish & Serve: Remove from broiler. Top immediately with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, and red onion. Finish with a generous drizzle of the chipotle crema and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.