BBQ Chicken Nachos are a fun and tasty snack! Picture crunchy tortilla chips piled high with juicy BBQ chicken, melty cheese, and fresh toppings.
These nachos are perfect for game day or movie night. I love adding a little sour cream on top—it’s the best part! Who doesn’t enjoy cheesy goodness with a kick of BBQ flavor?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: Choose sturdy tortilla chips to hold up under all those toppings! If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use baked chips or make your own using corn tortillas.
Shredded Chicken: You can use grilled or rotisserie chicken for a quick option. If you prefer plant-based, shredded jackfruit or tofu works great too!
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand, or make a homemade version for a personal touch. If you want to reduce sugar, try a low-sugar BBQ sauce or a spicy salsa instead.
Cheese: While cheddar is a favorite, feel free to mix in pepper jack for extra spice or a dairy-free cheese option if you’re vegan.
How Can I Ensure My Nachos Don’t Get Soggy?
The key to crispy nachos is layering wisely. Start with a solid base of tortilla chips and avoid overloading them with toppings. Here’s how to do it:
- Spread chips evenly on a lined baking sheet.
- Use just enough BBQ chicken and cheese to cover without overwhelming the chips.
- Bake only until the cheese is melted—about 10 minutes works well. Remove them before they sit too long!
Enjoy the crunch with your melty toppings! Trust me, your nachos will stay perfectly crispy when done right.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Nachos:
- 1 large bag tortilla chips
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup barbecue sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
For the Toppings:
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Nachos recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to bake, so you can have a delicious snack ready in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get it nice and hot for baking your nachos.
2. Mix the Chicken:
In a bowl, take your shredded chicken and mix it with 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce. Stir well until the chicken is fully coated in the sauce.
3. Prepare the Chips:
On a large baking sheet lined with parchment or foil, spread out an even layer of tortilla chips. Make sure they’re not stacked on top of each other, so they get crispy!
4. Add the Chicken:
Distribute the BBQ chicken evenly over the chips. Make sure to try to cover as many of the chips as possible with that delicious chicken!
5. Sprinkle Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the chicken and chips. Get ready for that melty goodness!
6. Bake the Nachos:
Place the tray in your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook!
7. Top Your Nachos:
Once out of the oven, add dollops of sour cream, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro on top of the nachos. These will add a fresh and zesty kick!
8. Drizzle with BBQ Sauce:
For an extra kick of flavor, drizzle more barbecue sauce over the top. This is totally optional, but I think it makes them even better!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your BBQ chicken nachos immediately while they’re hot and cheesy. Grab your friends, dig in, and enjoy the deliciousness!
Can I Use Different Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with shredded beef, pork, or even a plant-based protein like shredded jackfruit or tofu for a vegan option. Just ensure whatever protein you use is cooked and shredded before mixing it with the barbecue sauce.
How Should I Store Leftover Nachos?
Leftover nachos can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help crisp them up again, rather than using a microwave, which can make them soggy.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can mix the barbecue chicken and chop all your toppings ahead of time. Just assemble the nachos right before baking to ensure the chips stay crispy. If you prep everything in advance, you can enjoy a fresh batch in no time!
What Are Some Good Topping Alternatives?
Feel free to get creative with your toppings! You can add black olives, pickled jalapeños, green onions, or even some corn for a sweet crunch. Switching up the cheese blend is also fun—try a spicy pepper jack or a smoky gouda for a unique flavor twist!
