BBQ Chicken Nachos are a fun and tasty dish! Picture crispy tortilla chips piled high with tender BBQ chicken, melted cheese, and tasty toppings like jalapeños and sour cream.
This dish is perfect for sharing while watching a game or having a cozy night in. I love loading mine with extra cheese because, let’s be real, you can never have too much! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: I recommend using sturdy tortilla chips for the best crunch. If you want a healthier option, look for baked chips or even make your own by baking cut corn tortillas.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for speed and flavor. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken if that’s what you have on hand.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe. If you prefer a healthier take, you can use a sugar-free barbecue sauce or make your own with ketchup and spices!
Cheese: I love the sharpness of cheddar, but feel free to mix it up! Gouda or pepper jack can add a nice twist. Just ensure it’s a melting cheese for best results.
Red Onion: For a milder flavor, try using green onions or chives instead. They will still add a nice crunch without being overpowering!
How Do I Ensure My Nachos Stay Crispy?
Keeping nachos crispy while baking can be tricky. Here are some tips:
- Pre-bake the tortilla chips on their own for a few minutes before adding toppings. This enhances their crunch.
- Ensure not to overload with wet toppings. Spread the BBQ chicken evenly and not too thick!
- Remove nachos from the oven as soon as the cheese is melted to prevent sogginess. Serve right away!
With these tips, your nachos will be the star of the show! Enjoy every bite!
BBQ Chicken Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bag (about 10-12 oz) tortilla chips
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 3/4 cup barbecue sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: Jalapeños sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake. So, in just around 30 minutes, you’ll have a delightful plate of BBQ Chicken Nachos ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will help ensure your nachos are nice and crispy when they come out!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with 3/4 cup of barbecue sauce. Mix it well until the chicken is fully coated with the sauce. This will add a lovely BBQ flavor!
3. Layer the Chips:
On a large oven-safe platter or baking sheet, spread a layer of tortilla chips evenly across the bottom. Make sure they are laid out in a way that they won’t overlap too much—this helps them stay crispy.
4. Add BBQ Chicken:
Evenly distribute the BBQ chicken mixture over the layer of chips. Try to spread it out as much as possible for every chip to get some of that tasty chicken!
5. Cheese Time:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and, if you’re using it, the Monterey Jack cheese evenly on top of your nachos. The more cheese, the better!
6. Bake It:
Place the platter in your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
7. Add Toppings:
Once baked, carefully remove the nachos from the oven. Drizzle some extra barbecue sauce on top for added flavor. Then sprinkle with diced red onions and chopped cilantro for a fresh kick.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dollop some sour cream around your plate or serve it on the side. If you like it spicy, feel free to add sliced jalapeños on top. Serve immediately while they are hot and cheesy!
Enjoy your homemade BBQ Chicken Nachos! They are perfect for sharing—or for keeping all to yourself!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the barbecue sauce as directed in the recipe. It adds delicious flavor and makes prep super quick!
What Toppings Can I Add?
You can customize your nachos with a variety of toppings! Consider adding sliced black olives, guacamole, diced tomatoes, or even corn for extra texture and flavor. Get creative with what you love!
How Do I Store Leftover Nachos?
If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the components separately. Keep any leftover nachos and toppings in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, nachos are best when fresh, so enjoy them right away if you can!
Can I Make Them Spicy?
Yes! If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some diced jalapeños or add a drizzle of hot sauce before serving. You can also use spicy barbecue sauce to elevate the flavor!
