These BBQ Chicken Nachos are perfect for sharing! Tasty tortilla chips are piled high with juicy BBQ chicken, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings like jalapeños and sour cream.
They’re fun to make and even more fun to munch on while watching a game or hanging with friends. I often sneak a chip or two before they even hit the table! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: Look for sturdy chips that can hold the toppings. If you want a healthier twist, try baked tortilla chips or even homemade ones. Just slice corn tortillas, bake until crispy, and voilà – your own chips!
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works great here for convenience. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken if you’re short on time. Just make sure to season well if using canned!
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for this dish! If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try a reduced-sugar kind. Homemade BBQ sauce can also be a fun project if you have the time!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but you can mix it up with pepper jack for some heat or a blend of cheeses for different flavors. Vegan cheese can also be an option for a dairy-free twist!
Onions & Cilantro: Red onions give a nice crunch, but you can substitute with green onions for a milder taste. If cilantro isn’t your favorite, try parsley or just skip it altogether!
How Do You Get the Cheese Perfectly Melted on Nachos?
Getting that gooey, melted cheese on top of nachos is key to enjoying them. Here are some simple tips:
- Layer your ingredients wisely – this helps distribute the heat evenly. Start with chips, then cheese, then chicken, and repeat!
- Keep an eye on the oven. Bake just until the cheese is bubbly (about 10-15 minutes) to avoid burning the chips!
- If you want extra cheesiness, consider broiling the nachos for the last minute. Watch closely so they don’t burn!
By following these tips, you’ll have deliciously melty nachos that everyone will love!
BBQ Chicken Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large bag of tortilla chips (about 10-12 oz)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar and Monterey Jack blend)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy BBQ Chicken Nachos recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for baking, making it a super quick and delicious dish that can be ready in about 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick snack or a fun party dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, your nachos will be hot and crispy when they’re ready to serve!
2. Mix the Chicken and BBQ Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce. Give it a good stir until the chicken is well coated. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
3. Layer the Chips:
On a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter, spread half of the tortilla chips out evenly. Make sure they’re layered well so every chip gets some toppings!
4. Add Cheese and Chicken:
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the chips, followed by half of the BBQ chicken mixture. This layering helps create that ideal cheesy, chickeny goodness!
5. Add the Rest of the Chips:
Now, add the remaining tortilla chips on top. Once that’s done, finish with the rest of the cheese and BBQ chicken, ensuring everything is nicely distributed.
6. Bake the Nachos:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You don’t want to burn those tasty chips!
7. Top and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the sheet from the oven. Quickly sprinkle the diced red onions and chopped cilantro over the top. Don’t forget to add any additional toppings like jalapeños or sour cream if you’d like!
8. Enjoy Your Nachos:
Dig in while they’re hot! These BBQ Chicken Nachos are perfect for sharing at a gathering or just for enjoying a fun movie night at home.
Bon appétit! 🎉
Can I Use Different Proteins for These Nachos?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can use shredded beef, pulled pork, or even black beans for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the BBQ sauce to suit the flavor of the protein you choose!
How Can I Make These Nachos Spicier?
If you like heat, consider using spicy BBQ sauce or adding fresh jalapeños directly on top before baking. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce after baking for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken with the BBQ sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to assemble and bake the nachos right before serving for that perfect crispy texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Nachos?
Store any leftover nachos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up again, but keep in mind that the chips might get a bit soft from the moisture.
