BBQ Chicken Nachos are a fun and tasty snack! Crispy tortilla chips are loaded with juicy BBQ chicken, melted cheese, and topped with fresh goodies like jalapeños and cilantro.
They’re perfect for sharing during a movie night or game day. And let’s be real, who can resist melty cheese and smoky BBQ flavors? I always make a double batch—everyone loves them! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: I recommend using sturdy tortilla chips that can hold up to all the toppings. If you’re looking for a healthier option, baked chips are a great alternative.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to because it’s flavorful and saves time. If that’s not available, any cooked chicken, like grilled or boiled, works well, and you can even use shredded tofu for a vegetarian option.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce! Sweet, tangy, or spicy—whatever fits your taste. If you don’t have BBQ sauce, a mix of ketchup with a little mustard and vinegar can work in a pinch.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but you can mix it up with pepper jack for a bit of heat or use a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy. Just remember to check the melting quality of the alternative cheese!
Red Onion & Avocado: Red onion adds a nice crunch and color, but if you’re not a fan, green onions are milder. For the avocado, feel free to substitute with diced tomatoes or corn if you prefer.
How Do I Ensure My Nachos Don’t Get Soggy?
Soggy nachos can be a letdown! To keep them crispy, use these tips:
- Preheat your oven and bake the nachos right away for a hot meal.
- Layer the ingredients smartly—put half the cheese on first to protect the chips from moisture, then add toppings, and top with more cheese.
- Serve immediately. Letting nachos sit can lead to sogginess, so aim to eat them right after they come out of the oven!
With these simple tricks, your BBQ Chicken Nachos will be a hit every time! Enjoy! 😊
BBQ Chicken Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large bag tortilla chips (about 10-12 oz)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce, divided
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced avocado
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for heat
- Sour cream or ranch dressing for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to bake, for a total of about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack or meal for friends and family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will make sure your nachos get nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix the cooked shredded chicken with about 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce. Stir until everything is well coated and delicious!
3. Layer the Chips:
Spread an even layer of tortilla chips on a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter. You want to make sure they’re spread out so every chip gets some toppings!
4. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the chips. It’s time to get cheesy!
5. Add the BBQ Chicken:
Distribute the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the cheese and chips. Make sure to cover them well for an explosion of flavor.
6. More Cheese!
Top everything off by sprinkling the remaining cheese over the top. This will create a gooey, cheesy layer when melted!
7. Bake:
Place the nachos in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
8. Drizzle with BBQ Sauce:
Once they’re out of the oven, drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce over the nachos for an extra kick of flavor.
9. Add the Garnishes:
Top with diced red onion, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro. If you like a bit of heat, throw on some sliced jalapeños.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the nachos hot with sour cream or ranch dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty BBQ Chicken Nachos with friends and family!
Perfect for gatherings—or just a cozy night in. Enjoy your smoky, cheesy BBQ Chicken Nachos—every bite is a delight!
Can I Use Different Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While shredded chicken is classic, you can substitute it with pulled pork, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like black beans or tofu for a delicious twist.
What Kind of BBQ Sauce Should I Use?
Choose your favorite BBQ sauce, whether sweet, tangy, or spicy! If you have a homemade sauce, even better. Just make sure it complements the chicken well for the best flavor.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make BBQ Chicken Nachos vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with a combination of black beans, corn, or sautéed mushrooms. You can also add extra veggies for more flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for best results. The microwave works too, but they may not stay as crispy!
