BBQ Chicken Nachos Recipe
BBQ Chicken Nachos are a delicious and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. With layers of tender chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and melty cheese atop crispy tortilla chips, these nachos pack a flavorful punch.
Why Make This Recipe
Making BBQ Chicken Nachos is a no-brainer for several reasons. First and foremost, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for even the busiest home cooks. It can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.
Furthermore, BBQ Chicken Nachos are customizable. You can add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences, dietary restrictions, or what you have at home. Plus, they are perfect for large crowds or small gatherings alike, offering a sharable option that’s sure to please everyone. With just a few simple steps, you can create a tasty treat that will become a favorite in your household.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Nachos
Creating the perfect BBQ Chicken Nachos is straightforward. Here’s how to bring this mouthwatering recipe to life:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (*)
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce (plus more for topping)
- 18 ounces tortilla chips (1 large bag)
- ⅓ cup chopped red onion
- 1½ cups canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1½ cups corn (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups shredded smoked gouda cheese (**)
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Ranch dressing
- Chopped jalapeño peppers
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350℉.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce until well coated.
- Create a base layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Spread them evenly to ensure every bite has toppings.
- Layer on the BBQ chicken mixture, chopped red onion, black beans, corn, and finally, the shredded smoked gouda cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once it’s done, finish by topping the nachos with fresh cilantro and chopped jalapeño peppers. Drizzle ranch dressing and additional BBQ sauce over the top for extra flavor.
Pro Tips for Success with BBQ Chicken Nachos
- Don’t Overdo the Chips: Make sure you don’t pile on too many chips in the initial layer to avoid sogginess. A thin, even layer will maintain the crunch!
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken from previous meals.
- Timing is Key: Keep an eye on the nachos while they are baking. You want them heated through with cheese melted but avoid burning the chips.
- Personalize Your Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like olives, sliced avocado, or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Go for Quality Ingredients: Choose a good brand of BBQ sauce and quality cheese for the best results.
- Make it a Meal: Add proteins such as shredded beef or ground turkey for an even heartier dish.
Flavor Variations for BBQ Chicken Nachos
- Buffalo Chicken Nachos: Swap the BBQ sauce for buffalo sauce and sprinkle some blue cheese over the top for a spicy change.
- Vegetarian Nachos: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit and add avocado for creaminess.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Incorporate taco seasoning into the chicken mix, and top it with diced tomatoes and guacamole.
- Cheesy Beef Nachos: Use ground beef or pulled pork as the base instead of chicken, delving into a more traditional nacho flavor.
- Sweet and Spicy: Add diced pineapple with the chicken and BBQ sauce for a sweet twist that goes perfectly with the salty chips.
Serving Suggestions for BBQ Chicken Nachos
BBQ Chicken Nachos are best served hot, straight from the oven. Pair them with sides such as:
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can balance out the flavors.
- Guacamole: Add a fresh and creamy contrast to the savory nachos.
- Salsa: Consider serving with salsa on the side to provide a zesty complement.
- Fresh Veggies: Crunchy celery or carrot sticks can help balance the richness of the nachos.
- Ice-cold Drinks: Serve with cold beverages like soda, iced tea, or light beers to enhance the overall experience.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for BBQ Chicken Nachos
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the chips may lose some crunchiness when reheated.
To freeze your nachos, it’s best to keep the components separate. Store the chicken mixture and toppings in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, you can prepare fresh chips, heat the chicken mixture, and assemble the nachos again, thus retaining the crispy texture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQ About BBQ Chicken Nachos
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While smoked gouda adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack to suit your taste.
How can I make BBQ Chicken Nachos healthier?
To make this dish healthier, you can use whole grain tortilla chips, reduce the cheese, or add more veggies like diced bell peppers or zucchini.
Can I make BBQ Chicken Nachos ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and toppings in advance, but it’s best to assemble the nachos just before baking. This ensures that the chips remain crisp and crunchy.
What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
The best BBQ sauce will depend on your personal flavor preference. You can choose a sweet, smoky, or spicy variant based on what you enjoy most. Homemade BBQ sauce also makes for an excellent option.
Are BBQ Chicken Nachos suitable for kids?
Yes! BBQ Chicken Nachos are suitable for kids as long as you keep the heat level in check. You can serve the spicy toppings on the side, allowing kids to customize their nachos to their taste.
Final Thoughts
BBQ Chicken Nachos are an easy, versatile, and undeniably delicious dish that can quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re enjoying them during a big game, hosting a casual gathering, or just satisfying a late-night snack craving, these nachos deliver flavor and fun with every bite. The best part is how adaptable they are, allowing room for creativity according to your preferences. So gather your ingredients, get cozy, and enjoy the amazing experience of sharing this delightful dish with family and friends!
Print
BBQ Chicken Nachos
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
BBQ Chicken Nachos are a delicious and crowd-pleasing dish with layers of tender chicken, zesty BBQ sauce, and melty cheese atop crispy tortilla chips.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce (plus more for topping)
- 18 ounces tortilla chips (1 large bag)
- ⅓ cup chopped red onion
- 1½ cups canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1½ cups corn (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups shredded smoked gouda cheese
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Ranch dressing
- Chopped jalapeño peppers
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350℉.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce until well coated.
- Create a base layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet, spreading them evenly.
- Layer on the BBQ chicken mixture, chopped red onion, black beans, corn, and finally, the shredded smoked gouda cheese.
- Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Top with fresh cilantro and chopped jalapeño peppers. Drizzle ranch dressing and additional BBQ sauce over the top.
Notes
Don’t pile on too many chips to avoid sogginess. You can personalize your toppings based on preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
