Chicken Tostada with Corn, Pickled Jalapenos and Black Beans

Chicken Tostada with Corn, Pickled Jalapenos and Black Beans Recipe

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 6 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Tostada with Corn, Pickled Jalapenos and Black Beans

Chicken tostadas are a delicious and satisfying meal that combines crispy tortillas with flavorful toppings like chicken, corn, black beans, and pickled jalapenos. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a fun and festive party dish.

History

Tostadas are a traditional Mexican dish that dates back to ancient times. The word "tostada" actually means "toasted" in Spanish, referring to the crispy tortilla base of the dish. Tostadas are typically topped with a variety of ingredients, making them a versatile and customizable meal option.

Ingredients

cooking spray
4 (6 inches) corn tortillas
4 cups shredded lettuce
4 cooked chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tomato, diced
1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
0.25 cup diced pickled jalapenos
chopped fresh cilantro leaves, to garnish
cilantro-lime vinaigrette, recipe follows

Cilantro-Lime vinaigrette

0.33 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp honey mustard
1 tsp lime zest
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
2 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped
salt and ground black pepper

How to prepare

Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C).
Coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray.
Arrange tortillas on the prepared baking sheet and spray tortillas with cooking spray.
Brush cooking spray to coat.
Bake for 5 to 6 minutes, until golden brown.
Transfer tortillas to individual plates and top with lettuce, chicken, tomatoes, corn, black beans, and jalapenos.
Sprinkle cilantro over the top to garnish, if desired.
Drizzle with cilantro-lime vinaigrette.

Cilantro-Lime vinaigrette

In a container or jar, place chicken broth, olive oil, honey mustard, lime zest, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
Cover with a lid.
Shake to combine.
To serve, drizzle over chicken tostada.

Variations

Swap out the chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different protein option.
Add cheese, sour cream, or avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.
Use different vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To make the tortillas extra crispy, brush them with a thin layer of cooking spray before baking.

- Be sure to drain and rinse the black beans before adding them to the tostadas to remove excess sodium.

- Customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences - try adding avocado, salsa, or sour cream for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chicken tostadas with a side of Mexican rice, guacamole, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Garnish with extra cilantro, lime wedges, and salsa for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the tortillas in the oven helps to make them crispy without frying, making this dish a healthier option. Be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use flour or whole wheat tortillas instead of corn tortillas.

- Substitute pinto beans or refried beans for black beans.

- Use a store-bought vinaigrette or salsa instead of making your own.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the toppings and vinaigrette ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the tostadas. This can help save time on busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the tostadas on a platter and garnish with extra cilantro leaves and lime wedges for a beautiful presentation. Serve with colorful side dishes for a visually appealing meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair chicken tostadas with a refreshing Mexican beer, a fruity margarita, or a glass of crisp white wine. The flavors of the dish complement a variety of beverages for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover tostadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of chicken tostada contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie meal option that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of chicken tostada contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help fuel your daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of chicken tostada contains approximately 10 grams of fat. The fats in this dish come from sources like olive oil and chicken, which provide essential nutrients for overall health.

Proteins

Each serving of chicken tostada contains approximately 25 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an important component of a balanced diet.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken tostadas are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium. These nutrients are important for supporting immune function, vision, and overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat (tortillas) and may contain soy (cooking spray). Be sure to check ingredient labels for allergen information and make substitutions as needed.

Summary

Overall, chicken tostadas are a nutritious and balanced meal option that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoy them as part of a well-rounded diet for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Summary

Chicken tostadas with corn, pickled jalapenos, and black beans are a delicious and satisfying meal option that is perfect for any occasion. With a crispy tortilla base and flavorful toppings, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the combination of textures and flavors in this tasty recipe!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Rosa in her cozy little kitchen. Rosa was known for her delicious Mexican dishes, and that day she was kind enough to share her recipe for Chicken Tostada with Corn, Pickled Jalapenos, and Black Beans with me.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I could smell the rich aroma of spices and herbs filling the air. Rosa greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, and then she immediately got to work preparing the ingredients for our meal. I watched in awe as she effortlessly chopped vegetables, shredded chicken, and mixed together a flavorful marinade for the chicken.

As she worked, Rosa shared the story of how she learned to make this dish from her own grandmother when she was just a little girl. She told me about the countless hours she spent in the kitchen watching her grandmother cook, and how she learned to appreciate the art of Mexican cuisine from a young age.

I listened intently as Rosa explained each step of the recipe to me, from marinating the chicken in a blend of spices and lime juice, to sautéing the corn and black beans in a skillet until they were golden and caramelized. She showed me how to make the pickled jalapenos by soaking them in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt, and how to assemble the tostadas with a layer of crispy tortillas, tender chicken, and all of the delicious toppings.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I took my first bite of the Chicken Tostada with Corn, Pickled Jalapenos, and Black Beans and was immediately transported back to my childhood. The flavors were bold and vibrant, with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness that danced on my taste buds.

From that day on, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for my family and friends, and each time I served it, it was met with rave reviews. I took great pride in knowing that I had learned this dish from Rosa, who had learned it from her grandmother, and that I was continuing on the tradition of passing down recipes from generation to generation.

Over the years, I have made some slight tweaks to the recipe, adding my own personal touch with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dollop of creamy avocado. But the heart of the dish remains the same – a comforting and flavorful meal that never fails to bring a smile to the faces of those who enjoy it.

As I sit here in my own kitchen, preparing a batch of Chicken Tostadas with Corn, Pickled Jalapenos, and Black Beans for my family, I am filled with a sense of nostalgia and gratitude. I am grateful for the friendships that have brought me such wonderful recipes, and for the joy that cooking has brought me throughout the years.

So as I take my first bite of this delicious dish, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories that have been created around the table, and for the love that has been shared through the simple act of cooking and sharing a meal together. And I know that this recipe will continue to hold a special place in my heart for many years to come.