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Two crispy Chicken Milanesa Torta sandwiches with avocado, jalapeños, and slaw on a wooden board.

Flavorful Mexican Torta Sandwich with Spicy Chicken & Creamy Avocado

Dive into a vibrant Mexican Torta packed with succulent spicy chicken, creamy avocado, crisp veggies, and savory refried beans, all nestled in a toasted bolillo roll. This sandwich is a flavor explosion perfect for a satisfying meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 680

Ingredients
  

For the Spicy Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs cut into 1/2-inch strips or thin cutlets
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 tbsp Chili Powder
  • 1 tsp Cumin ground
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper or to taste, for extra heat
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
For the Creamy Avocado Spread
  • 2 medium Ripe Avocados pitted and scooped
  • 2 tbsp Lime Juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro chopped
  • 1/4 tsp Salt or to taste
For Assembly
  • 4 each Bolillo Rolls or Torta Buns sliced horizontally
  • 1 cup Refried Beans warmed
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack or Oaxaca Cheese shredded
  • 1 each Tomato sliced
  • 1/2 each Red Onion thinly sliced or quick-pickled
  • 1 cup Shredded Lettuce or thinly sliced cabbage
  • Optional Jalapeño Slices fresh or pickled
  • Optional Cotija Cheese crumbled, for topping

Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Grill Pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp Knife

Method
 

Prepare the Spicy Chicken
  1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken strips/cutlets with 1 tbsp olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
  2. Heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the Creamy Avocado Spread
  1. In a separate bowl, mash the ripe avocados with a fork. Stir in the lime juice, chopped cilantro, and salt until well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Assemble the Tortas
  1. Preheat your oven or a clean skillet to medium heat. Slice the bolillo rolls horizontally. If desired, lightly toast the cut sides of the rolls in the oven or skillet for 2-3 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.
  2. Spread a generous layer of warm refried beans on the bottom half of each toasted bolillo roll. Top with a portion of the shredded Monterey Jack or Oaxaca cheese.
  3. Place the skillet with the buns (cheese side up) back on low heat or in the oven for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and gooey.
  4. On top of the melted cheese, layer a generous amount of the spicy cooked chicken. Follow with slices of tomato, thinly sliced (or pickled) red onion, and shredded lettuce.
  5. Spread a thick layer of the creamy avocado spread on the top half of each bolillo roll. If using, add jalapeño slices and a sprinkle of crumbled Cotija cheese.
  6. Carefully place the top half of the bun onto the bottom half, pressing down gently. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful Mexican torta!

Notes

For quick pickled red onions, thinly slice 1/2 a red onion and place in a jar. Bring 1/2 cup white vinegar, 1/2 cup water, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp sugar to a boil. Pour over onions and let sit for at least 15 minutes before using. These add a wonderful tangy crunch! You can also add a dollop of your favorite salsa or a drizzle of crema for extra moisture and flavor.