Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 6 corn tortillas (6-inch/15cm diameter)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 (15-ounce/425g) can refried beans (vegetarian or traditional)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) water
  • 1 cup (240ml) diced tomatoes (about 2 medium)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) diced red onion (about 1/4 medium)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped cilantro (fresh)
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely minced (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) lime juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) water
  • Pinch of salt
  • Shredded lettuce (Optional)
  • Crumbled Cotija cheese or feta cheese (Optional)
  • Avocado slices (Optional)
  • Hot sauce (your favourite) (Optional)

Instructions:

  1. Place chicken breasts in a saucepan with broth and spices. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook until chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).
  2. Remove chicken from the broth and shred with two forks. Reserve some broth for adding back if the chicken is too dry.
  3. Brush tortillas with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and bake until crispy and golden brown. (Or shallow fry for a more authentic, but less healthy, crunch!)
  4. Heat refried beans with water in a small saucepan until warmed through.
  5. Combine all salsa ingredients in a bowl, mix well, and season to taste.
  6. Whisk together sour cream, lime juice, water, and salt in a small bowl.
  7. Spread refried beans on each tostada. Top with shredded chicken, salsa, and a drizzle of lime crema. Assemble the chicken tostadas
  8. Garnish with lettuce, cheese, avocado, and hot sauce, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your feast!