Introduction
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing snack or a fun dinner idea, BBQ Chicken Nachos are the perfect choice. Combining crispy tortilla chips with savory, BBQ-flavored chicken and gooey cheese, these nachos are an explosion of flavor and texture. The optional toppings allow you to customize each plate to suit your taste, making this dish perfect for gatherings or casual weeknight meals.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 bag tortilla chips
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup BBQ sauce
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup pickled jalapeños (optional)
1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
1/2 cup corn kernels (optional, fresh or canned)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Optional Toppings:
Sour cream
Guacamole
Diced tomatoes
Sliced green onions
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Enjoy making these BBQ Chicken Nachos for your next get-together, and watch them disappear in no time!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Chicken
In a medium bowl, toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
Assemble the Nachos
Spread a layer of tortilla chips on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle half of the cheese over the chips. Distribute the BBQ chicken, red onion, black beans, corn, and pickled jalapeños (if using) evenly over the chips. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with optional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, and sliced green onions.
Notes
Chicken
You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or any leftover cooked chicken.
Cheese
Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a more robust flavor.
Vegetable Variations
Customize the nachos with additional vegetables such as bell peppers, olives, or diced avocado.
Serving Size
This recipe serves about 4-6 people as a snack or appetizer.
Spice Level
Adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your preference for heat.
Storage
Leftover nachos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Ensure your oven is properly preheated to 375°F (190°C) to achieve even melting of the cheese and proper cooking of the ingredients.
Coating Chicken
Toss the shredded chicken in BBQ sauce in a medium bowl to ensure uniform flavor distribution.
Layering Nachos
Start with a base layer of tortilla chips, then sprinkle cheese before adding toppings like BBQ chicken, red onion, and optional ingredients. Finish with more cheese to hold the toppings in place.
Baking the Nachos
Place the nachos in the oven for 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning and to ensure the cheese becomes melted and bubbly.
Garnishing and Serving
Once out of the oven, add fresh cilantro and serve immediately. Offer optional toppings like sour cream and guacamole on the side for added flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other types of sauce instead of BBQ?
Yes, you can experiment with different sauces such as buffalo sauce or teriyaki for varied flavors.
What can I substitute for tortilla chips?
You can use pita chips, veggie chips, or even baked potato chips as alternatives.
Are there any vegetarian options for this recipe?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and use additional beans, corn, or vegetables as toppings, along with the cheese.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the elements in advance, but it’s best to bake nachos just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
How do I reheat leftover nachos?
To reheat, place them in the oven at a low temperature until the cheese is melted, avoiding the microwave which can make chips soggy.
Conclusion
This BBQ Chicken Nachos recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for game days, gatherings, or a cozy night in. The combination of crispy tortilla chips, savory BBQ chicken, and melted cheese topped with fresh garnishes creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy this flavorful twist on a classic snack.
More recipes suggestions and combination
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Use the same BBQ chicken mixture and add it between tortillas with cheese. Cook until golden brown and serve with salsa and sour cream.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Spread BBQ sauce on pizza dough, top with shredded chicken, cheese, and red onions. Bake until golden and bubbly.
BBQ Chicken Salad
Toss mixed greens with BBQ chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and a dressing of your choice for a hearty salad.
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Mix shredded BBQ chicken, black beans, and corn, then stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers and bake until tender.
BBQ Chicken Sliders
Serve the shredded BBQ chicken on slider buns with coleslaw for a tasty handheld option.
