BBQ Chicken Nachos are a fun and tasty treat! Imagine crispy tortilla chips loaded with tender BBQ chicken, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings like jalapeños and guacamole. Yum!
These nachos are perfect for game night or a casual gathering. I love piling on the toppings and enjoying every cheesy bite. Who can resist that combo? It’s always a hit! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: I recommend using thick, sturdy tortilla chips so they can hold all the toppings without breaking. If you’re looking for a healthier option, baked chips work well too.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for its flavor and convenience. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, try using jackfruit or seasoned black beans for a plant-based twist.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for the best flavor! You can even make your own with ketchup, brown sugar, and spices if you prefer. If you want a spicy kick, opt for a chipotle or spicy BBQ sauce.
Cheese: I love mixing cheddar and Monterey Jack for nice melty goodness. Other options include pepper jack for some heat or any good melting cheese like mozzarella.
Bacon: For a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon or skip it entirely. If you want a different flavor, top your nachos with sliced olives or roasted bell peppers instead.
How Do I Achieve the Best Layering for Nachos?
Layering is key to making delicious nachos. Start with a base of chips to ensure every bite is tasty. Here’s how to layer effectively:
- Begin with a full layer of tortilla chips as your foundation; space them evenly.
- Add half the cheese so it melts into the chips.
- Distribute half the BBQ chicken for flavor throughout.
- Repeat the layers to create thick, cheesy nachos with balanced toppings.
This method helps to keep your nachos crunchy while ensuring that every chip gets a flavor-packed bite!
BBQ Chicken Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Nachos:
- 1 large bag tortilla chips (about 10-12 ounces)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Optional Toppings:
- sour cream
- jalapeños
- guacamole for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Nachos recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake. Including preheating the oven, you’ll be enjoying these tasty nachos in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is an important step to ensure your nachos get nice and cheesy!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, toss the shredded chicken with about 3/4 cup of barbecue sauce. Make sure all the chicken is nicely coated with the sauce for maximum flavor.
3. Layer the Chips:
Spread a single layer of tortilla chips evenly in a large baking dish or cast iron skillet. Try to cover the bottom completely with chips to support all those yummy toppings!
4. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla chips. This layer will help create a cheesy base.
5. Add the Chicken:
Now, distribute half of the BBQ chicken over the cheese layer. This will give flavor in every bite!
6. Repeat the Layers:
Add another layer of tortilla chips on top of the chicken. Then sprinkle the remaining cheese and BBQ chicken on top. It’s like a delicious nacho sandwich!
7. Bake:
Place your loaded nachos in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Add Finishing Touches:
Remove your nachos from the oven and immediately drizzle the remaining barbecue sauce over the top. Yum!
9. Top It Off:
Sprinkle the chopped red onion, crumbled bacon, and fresh cilantro evenly over the nachos. These toppings add crunch and flavor.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your BBQ Chicken Nachos hot! Don’t forget to offer optional sides of sour cream, jalapeños, and guacamole for dipping or adding on top. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds lots of flavor. Just shred the chicken off the bone and toss it in the barbecue sauce as directed!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like some heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños to the layers or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving. You can also use a spicy barbecue sauce for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare These Nachos in Advance?
While nachos are best served fresh, you can prepare the shredded chicken and mix it with barbecue sauce a day ahead. Just layer everything and bake when you’re ready to serve!
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 at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, but keep in mind that chips may lose some of their crunch!
