Introduction
If you’re craving a delicious and hearty dish that’s sure to please a crowd, look no further than BBQ Chicken Nachos. This recipe combines tender, flavorful chicken with crispy tortilla chips, savory baked beans, and a gooey cheese layer, all topped off with a drizzle of queso blanco dip. Perfect for game day, parties, or a casual dinner, these nachos are both easy to prepare and satisfyingly delicious!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon BBQ seasoning
– 1/3 cup water
– 1 bottle BBQ sauce
– 1 can baked beans
– 6 strips cooked bacon, chopped
– 2 cups shredded Colby jack cheese
– 1 bag tortilla chips
– 1 cup queso blanco dip
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours (using slow cooker)
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Directions
1. Place the chicken in your slow cooker and season with BBQ seasoning. Add water, cover, and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
2. Once cooked, shred the chicken with a fork, mix in BBQ sauce, and set aside.
3. In a small saucepan, simmer baked beans over medium-low heat for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with aluminum foil.
5. Spread tortilla chips evenly over both baking sheets. Sprinkle one cup of Colby jack cheese over each sheet of chips.
6. Top the chips with an even layer of baked beans, followed by chopped bacon, and then the shredded BBQ chicken.
7. Drizzle the queso blanco dip evenly over the nachos.
8. Sprinkle the remaining Colby jack cheese over the top.
9. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Serve immediately.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Season the chicken with one tablespoon of BBQ seasoning. Pour in 1/3 cup of water. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, use a fork to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Mix the shredded chicken with the desired amount of BBQ sauce, and set it aside for later use.
Step 3: Prepare the Baked Beans
In a small saucepan, pour in the can of baked beans. Heat over medium-low heat, allowing it to simmer for about 10 minutes. After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. While the oven is heating, prepare two baking sheets by lining them with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Arrange the Tortilla Chips
Evenly spread the tortilla chips across both prepared baking sheets. Make sure the chips are arranged in a single layer for best results.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Toppings
Sprinkle one cup of shredded Colby jack cheese over each sheet of tortilla chips. Layer the baked beans evenly over the cheese. Next, add the chopped bacon strips, followed by the shredded BBQ chicken mixture.
Step 7: Drizzle with Queso Blanco Dip
Drizzle the queso blanco dip evenly across the top of the nacho layers, ensuring a good distribution for flavor.
Step 8: Top with Remaining Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining shredded Colby jack cheese generously over the nachos, providing an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
Step 9: Bake the Nachos
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Once done, remove from the oven and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
Storage Tips
Leftover nachos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the texture may not be as crisp when reheated.
Serving Suggestions
These nachos pair well with additional toppings such as jalapeños, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
Variation Ideas
Feel free to customize your nachos with different types of cheese, add veggies like diced tomatoes or green onions, or substitute the chicken with pulled pork or beef for a different flavor profile.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker with BBQ seasoning and water. Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. This method ensures juicy, flavorful chicken.
Shredding Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it into pieces. This is ideal for incorporating it into dishes, especially when mixed with sauces like BBQ.
Simmering Beans
Heat the baked beans in a small saucepan over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes. This warming technique allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Baking Nachos
Preheat the oven to 350°F and layer tortilla chips on baking sheets. Top with cheese and other ingredients, then bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a delicious nacho experience.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker, but keep in mind that cooking time may increase. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What type of BBQ seasoning should I use?
You can use store-bought BBQ seasoning or make your own blend with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar for a personalized taste.
Are there alternative toppings for the nachos?
Absolutely! You can customize nachos with toppings like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, olives, or different types of cheese based on your preference.
Can these nachos be made in advance?
While the nachos are best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken, beans, and toppings in advance, then assemble and bake them when ready to serve.
How do I store leftover nachos?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven for best results, as microwave reheating may make the chips soggy.
Conclusion
This BBQ chicken nachos recipe combines tender shredded chicken, crispy tortilla chips, savory baked beans, and gooey cheese for a deliciously satisfying meal. The blend of flavors and textures is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy these nachos as a tasty appetizer or a fun main dish that everyone will love.
BBQ Chicken Sliders
Use the BBQ chicken to fill slider buns, adding coleslaw for crunch and extra flavor.
Baked BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Spread BBQ chicken and shredded cheese between tortillas, cook until crispy, and serve with queso or sour cream.
Bacon BBQ Chicken Pizza
Top a pizza crust with BBQ sauce, shredded chicken, chopped bacon, and cheese for a delicious twist on classic pizza.
BBQ Chicken Bean Chili
Combine shredded BBQ chicken with baked beans and your favorite chili spices for a hearty chili.
BBQ Chicken Pasta Bake
Mix cooked pasta with BBQ chicken, baked beans, and cheese, then bake until bubbly for a comforting dish.
