Ingredients:

  • 8 medium Yellow Corn Tortillas
  • 120 ml (½ cup) Neutral Oil (for frying) OR Non-Stick Cooking Spray (for baking)
  • ½ tsp Fine Sea Salt
  • 425 g (15 oz) Canned Refried Beans
  • 2 tbsp Water or Chicken Stock (to thin beans)
  • 2 cups (about 300g) Cooked Shredded Chicken
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder (optional)
  • 1 cup (150g) Shredded Iceberg Lettuce
  • 1 large Tomato, diced
  • ½ medium White Onion, finely diced
  • 100g (3.5 oz) Cotija Cheese, crumbled
  • 120 ml (½ cup) Mexican Crema or Sour Cream (thinned)
  • Hot Sauce (your preference)
  • Lime Wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Bases and Toppings: Shred the lettuce, dice the tomato, and finely dice the onion. In a small saucepan, heat the refried beans over medium-low heat, stirring in 2 tbsp of water or stock until spreadable. If using unseasoned chicken, toss the shredded meat with chili powder and a pinch of salt; briefly warm the chicken through.
  2. Cook the Crispy Shells (Frying Method): Heat ½ cup of oil in a heavy frying pan over medium-high heat (around 175°C / 350°F). Fry 2 tortillas at a time for 1–2 minutes per side until deeply golden brown and rigid. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack and immediately sprinkle with salt. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
  3. Cook the Crispy Shells (Baking Method - Lighter Option): Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly brush or spray both sides of the tortillas with oil/spray and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 5–7 minutes, flip, and bake for another 3–5 minutes until completely crisp.
  4. Assembly: Take one crispy tostada shell and spread a generous layer (about 2 tablespoons) of the warm refried beans evenly across the surface (this acts as the anchor). Spoon the shredded chicken evenly over the beans.
  5. The Finishers: Add a mound of shredded lettuce, followed by the diced tomato and onion. Drizzle generously with Mexican crema (or thinned sour cream) and sprinkle with the crumbled Cotija cheese.
  6. Serve Immediately: Serve immediately with lime wedges and your favourite hot sauce for maximum crunch and flavor.