BBQ Chicken Nachos are a fun twist on a classic snack! Crispy tortilla chips are piled high with juicy barbecue chicken, melted cheese, and mouth-watering toppings.
These nachos are perfect for sharing or for a cozy night in. I love adding a dollop of sour cream on top—it makes everything even better! Who can resist cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: Go for sturdy tortilla chips that won’t get soggy under the toppings. If gluten-free, there are many great brands available. I often use whole grain chips for a healthy twist!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for ease and flavor. Alternatively, you can use leftover chicken or even shredded beef or pulled pork for a different protein. If you’re vegetarian, black beans or grilled veggies make a tasty substitute.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce, or try making a homemade version for more control over flavors. If you prefer a lighter option, look for reduced-sugar versions. For heat, a spicy BBQ sauce adds a nice kick!
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but I love experimenting with a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra creaminess. If you want to keep it dairy-free, try vegan cheese shreds instead.
Onions: White onions give a great crunch, but red onions add a gorgeous color and a bit of sweetness. If you don’t like raw onions, consider caramelizing them for a milder flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Cheese Melts Perfectly?
The cheese is a star in these nachos, so getting it right is key! To ensure it melts evenly, follow these steps:
- Use a mix of cheeses that melt well, like cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- Layer the cheese between the chips and chicken. This helps create a gooey texture throughout.
- Don’t rush; bake the nachos just until the cheese is bubbly—about 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) is perfect.
Keep a close eye during baking to prevent overcooking, which can dry out the cheese. Enjoy the melty goodness!
BBQ Chicken Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bag (10-12 oz) tortilla chips
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar and Monterey Jack blend)
- 1/2 cup diced white onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for topping)
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10-12 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or party snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your nachos.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix the shredded cooked chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly for maximum flavor!
3. Prepare the Baking Tray:
Line a baking sheet or oven-safe tray with parchment paper or foil. This will make cleanup a breeze!
4. Arrange the Tortilla Chips:
Spread a layer of tortilla chips evenly across the tray. Feel free to overlap them a little bit, but make sure there’s enough room for all the toppings!
5. Layer the Chicken:
Sprinkle half of the BBQ chicken mixture over the chips. Make sure it’s distributed evenly so that every bite has that delicious chicken flavor.
6. Cheese it Up:
Now sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the chicken and chips. This cheesy layer is what makes the nachos so irresistible!
7. Repeat the Layers:
Add another layer of tortilla chips over the cheese, followed by the remaining BBQ chicken and the rest of the cheese. Double the layers, double the fun!
8. Bake the Nachos:
Place your tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
9. Toppings Galore:
Once baked, take the nachos out of the oven and sprinkle diced white onions, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro on top right away so those flavors stick.
10. Drizzle and Dollop:
For extra flavor, drizzle some more BBQ sauce over the top, and add dollops of sour cream wherever you like.
11. Add Some Spice (Optional):
If you want some extra heat, add sliced jalapeños on top to kick things up a notch!
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these warm and enjoy the amazing flavors! They’re perfect for sharing with friends or indulging during your next movie night!
This combination of smoky BBQ chicken, melted cheese, fresh onions, and creamy sour cream on crunchy tortilla chips makes these nachos irresistibly delicious!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor to your nachos. Just shred it and mix it with the barbecue sauce as directed!
Can I Make These Nachos Spicy?
Yes! You can add sliced jalapeños on top for heat before baking, or use a spicy barbecue sauce to kick things up a notch. For even more spice, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any 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) for about 10 minutes to help restore some crispiness, rather than using the microwave which may make them soggy.
Can I Prepare These Nachos Ahead of Time?
You can prep the chicken and lay out the chips and cheese ahead of time, but it’s best to bake them fresh for that crispy texture. Just assemble everything right before you plan on serving them!
