Buffalo Chicken Nachos are a fun twist on a classic snack! Picture crispy tortilla chips piled high with spicy buffalo chicken, melted cheese, and tasty toppings like sour cream and green onions.
They’re perfect for game day or movie night! I love how easy they are to make—just mix your chicken with sauce, layer everything up, and bake until cheesy and warm. Yum! 🧀🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken is key here. I often use rotisserie chicken for speed, but any cooked chicken works well. If you’re vegetarian, consider using a plant-based chicken substitute or even roasted cauliflower!
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is my favorite because of its great flavor. If you’re looking for a milder option, try a BBQ sauce mixed with hot sauce for a less spicy kick. You can also make a homemade buffalo sauce using hot sauce and melted butter.
Tortilla Chips: Go for thick tortilla chips to hold all the toppings! If you’re avoiding corn, you can use tortilla chips made from beans or another grain, or even pita chips for a crunchier alternative.
Cheese: I love using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for flavor and meltiness. If you’re lactose intolerant, try dairy-free cheese options or just stick with blue cheese crumbles for the top, which adds a punch of flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Nachos Don’t Get Soggy?
Soggy nachos can be disappointing! To avoid this, layer your ingredients wisely. Place a layer of cheese right on top of the chips before adding the chicken. This creates a barrier that helps keep the chips crisp.
- Use sturdy, thicker tortilla chips to hold everything without breaking.
- Don’t overload the nachos—keep toppings to a moderate amount to help them stay crunchy.
- Serve immediately after baking, so the cheese is melted but the chips don’t sit too long with toppings.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Nachos:
- 8 oz cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 bag tortilla chips (about 10-12 oz)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (scallions)
- Optional: ranch dressing for drizzling
- Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Buffalo Chicken Nachos recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake, making the total time around 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick snack or a hearty appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your nachos bake perfectly and the cheese melts just right!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, toss the shredded chicken with the buffalo wing sauce until it’s fully coated. This is where the spicy goodness begins!
3. Assemble the Nachos:
Take a large oven-safe skillet or baking sheet and arrange the tortilla chips in an even layer. Make sure they cover the surface well—this will hold all that deliciousness!
4. Layer the Cheesy Goodness:
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla chips. Next, distribute the buffalo chicken over the cheese-covered chips evenly. Finally, add the remaining shredded cheese on top of the chicken layer.
5. Bake the Nachos:
Place the assembled nachos in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them; we want that cheesy goodness, not burnt chips!
6. Add the Final Touches:
Once out of the oven, immediately sprinkle blue cheese crumbles evenly over the bubbly nachos. This adds incredible flavor! Drizzle the sour cream over the top and garnish with chopped green onions for freshness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, you can add a drizzle of ranch dressing and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve the nachos hot and enjoy the perfect crowd-pleaser!
These Buffalo Chicken Nachos are loaded with flavor and are sure to be a hit. You’ll love the combination of spicy chicken, creamy cheese, and crunchy tortilla chips! 🧀🌶️
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds fantastic flavor. Just shred the chicken off the bones and mix it with the buffalo sauce as instructed in the recipe.
What Can I Use Instead of Blue Cheese?
If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, just skip the cheese and add extra cheddar for a milder taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Nachos?
Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, as reheating in the microwave can make them soggy.
Can I Make This Dish More Spicy?
Definitely! If you want to kick up the heat, add sliced jalapeños, diced serrano peppers, or use a hotter buffalo sauce. You can also serve with additional hot sauce on the side for those who like it extra spicy!
