If you’re looking for a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and texture, you have to try this BBQ Chicken Tostadas with Creamy Slaw Recipe. Crispy tortillas offer the perfect crunchy base for smoky, saucy BBQ chicken layered atop a rich and tangy baked bean spread. Then, a fresh, creamy slaw adds a bright, crunchy finish, making every bite a delicious experience that dances between sweet, smoky, tangy, and fresh. Trust me, this is a weeknight meal you’ll want to make again and again.

A single tostada with a crispy yellow corn base lies flat on a piece of parchment paper on a light wooden board. On top, there is a thick layer of shredded light brown cooked chicken mixed with small orange chunks, likely tomato or sauce, giving it a slightly glossy texture. The chicken layer is drizzled with white cream and sprinkled with tiny crumbly white cheese bits, adding texture contrast. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this BBQ Chicken Tostadas with Creamy Slaw Recipe lies in its simple ingredients, each chosen to bring out incredible flavors and textures. From the smoky barbecue sauce and tender chicken to the crisp tortillas and refreshing slaw, every element is essential to creating the perfect bite.

Ketchup (⅓ cup): Adds tangy sweetness and forms the barbecue sauce base.
Light brown sugar (3 Tbsp): Sweetens and balances the tang of the sauce beautifully.
Minced onion (¼ cup): Brings subtle savory notes and texture to the sauce.
Distilled white vinegar (4 Tbsp total): Provides brightness and a touch of acidity to both the sauce and the slaw dressing.
Yellow mustard (3 Tbsp): Adds a gentle zip and depth to the BBQ sauce.
Tomato paste (1 Tbsp): Concentrated tomato flavor richens the sauce.
Worcestershire sauce (1 Tbsp): Offers a savory umami boost to the chicken sauce.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb., cut into 2-inch pieces): The hearty, protein-packed star of the dish.
Corn tortillas (4, 6-inch): Crisped to golden perfection for that toasty crunch.
Neufchatel cheese (2 oz.): Creates a silky, creamy base for the slaw.
Chopped jalapeño (1 Tbsp): Adds a mild, fresh heat that wakes up the slaw.
Chopped fresh garlic (1½ tsp): Packs an aromatic punch in the creamy dressing.
Shredded red cabbage (1 cup): Provides vibrant color and crunch to the slaw.
Chopped fresh parsley (¼ cup): Brings herbal freshness and a pop of green.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance flavors.
Navy beans (1 can, 15 oz., drained and rinsed): Forms the hearty and slightly sweet base layer under the chicken.
Pure maple syrup (1-2 Tbsp): Sweetens the beans naturally; adjust based on your preference.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Tostadas with Creamy Slaw Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Barbecue Sauce and Cook the Chicken

Begin by combining the ketchup, brown sugar, minced onion, 3 tablespoons of white vinegar, yellow mustard, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce into a bowl—the heart of your BBQ sauce. Reserve ⅓ cup of this sauce to infuse the baked beans later. Add the rest of the sauce to the chicken pieces in a saucepan, bring it all to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer gently for about 15 minutes until the chicken is perfectly cooked and tender. Once done, shred the chicken and stir it back into the sauce so every bite is infused with that smoky, tangy barbecue goodness.

Step 2: Crisp the Tortillas

While the chicken simmers, lightly coat your corn tortillas with nonstick spray and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Lay them out on a baking sheet and bake in a 425°F oven for about 8 minutes until they’re golden and crisp. These crunchy tortillas are what make the tostadas so satisfying—the perfect sturdy base for all your flavorful toppings without getting soggy.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Slaw

In a mini food processor, purée the Neufchatel cheese, 1 tablespoon white vinegar, jalapeño, and garlic until smooth and creamy. Toss this luscious dressing with shredded red cabbage and fresh parsley, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste. Chill the slaw while you finish the rest of the dish to let the flavors meld and the cabbage stay crisp and refreshing.

Step 4: Prepare the Baked Beans

Heat the drained navy beans with the reserved BBQ sauce and maple syrup in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until warmed through and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Then, lightly mash the beans to create a thick, flavorful spread that adds a wonderful layer of heartiness to your tostadas.

Step 5: Assemble Your BBQ Chicken Tostadas with Creamy Slaw

Spread the warm baked bean mixture evenly over each crispy tortilla, then pile on the shredded barbecue chicken. Top generously with the creamy slaw for that perfect balance of cool crunch and smoky warmth. Get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering combination that is as fun to eat as it is delicious.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Tostadas with Creamy Slaw Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate these tostadas, sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves or thinly sliced green onions on top. A squeeze of fresh lime over the finished tostadas adds a bright citrus zing that complements the smoky chicken and creamy slaw beautifully. If you like a little extra heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for that welcomed kick.

Side Dishes

This recipe stands perfectly on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides like Mexican street corn (elote), a fresh avocado salad, or even a bowl of tangy black bean soup. A crisp, light side balances out the heartier tostadas and creates a well-rounded meal that doesn’t overwhelm but satisfies completely.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the BBQ Chicken Tostadas with Creamy Slaw Recipe as mini tostada bites at your next party—just cut the tortillas into smaller rounds before baking. You can also turn these into a layered tostada dip in a shallow dish, perfect for scooping with tortilla chips, capturing all the elements in each scoop. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt you will), store the shredded BBQ chicken, baked beans, and creamy slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keeps well for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy a quick assembly for lunch or dinner the next day without losing any flavor or texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the shredded BBQ chicken and baked beans separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. The creamy slaw is best made fresh, so keep the dressing and cabbage separate if freezing, or simply prepare a fresh batch when ready to serve again.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken and beans gently on the stove or in the microwave until warm, being careful not to overcook the chicken. Then, crisp up fresh tortillas in the oven before assembling with the chilled creamy slaw for the best texture contrast.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor. Just shred it and toss it with the BBQ sauce as directed. It’s a fantastic shortcut that doesn’t compromise taste.

What can I substitute for Neufchatel cheese in the slaw?

Neufchatel is creamy but lower in fat than cream cheese. You can substitute regular cream cheese or even Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy variation. Just adjust seasoning to taste.

How spicy is the jalapeño in the slaw?

The jalapeño adds a mild heat that’s fresh and bright rather than overwhelming. If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount or remove the seeds before blending.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but always check your labels to ensure no cross-contamination. The rest of the ingredients are gluten-free as listed.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. The components can be prepared in advance and stored separately, then quickly assembled when ready to eat. It’s a colorful, delicious meal that keeps well.

Final Thoughts

Try this BBQ Chicken Tostadas with Creamy Slaw Recipe for an irresistible, flavor-packed dinner that feels both comforting and fresh. It’s a fantastic way to bring a little fiesta to your weeknight table without spending hours in the kitchen. I’m sure once you make it, it’ll become a new favorite you can’t wait to share with friends and family.

BBQ Chicken Tostadas with Creamy Slaw Recipe