These BBQ Chicken Nachos are a fun and tasty treat! Crispy tortilla chips are piled high with tender BBQ chicken, melted cheese, and all your favorite toppings.
They’re perfect for game day or a cozy movie night. Honestly, I sometimes make these just because I can’t resist the gooey cheese and sweet BBQ flavor! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: I love using classic corn tortilla chips for their crispiness. If you’re gluten-free, look for certified gluten-free chips. Feel free to use baked chips for a lighter option, but they might not be as crunchy.
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is super convenient and packed with flavor. However, cooked chicken breast or thighs work well too. For a vegetarian option, try using black beans or grilled veggies instead!
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce! If you’re making it from scratch, I recommend a mix of ketchup, vinegar, honey, and spices for a balanced flavor. You can also go for a low-sugar version for a healthier choice.
Cheeses: Cheddar and Monterey Jack are my go-to for melty goodness. You can substitute with pepper jack if you like it spicy or use a vegan cheese alternative if you’re dairy-free.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess, but if you’re lactose intolerant, consider Greek yogurt as an alternative. It has a similar texture and offers a bit of extra protein!
How Can You Layer Nachos for the Best Flavor?
Layering is key when making nachos to get a good balance of flavors and textures. Make sure to build your nachos in layers rather than just piling everything on top.
- Start with a layer of tortilla chips on the bottom for a solid base.
- Evenly distribute half of the BBQ chicken on the chips to ensure each chip gets some!
- Follow with a generous sprinkle of cheese. The more, the better for that gooey effect!
- Repeat the layers if you have enough ingredients, topping the last layer with cheese to help it melt nicely.
This technique not only ensures that every bite is packed with delicious BBQ flavor but also keeps the nachos from getting soggy. Serve them hot and enjoy with your favorite toppings!
BBQ Chicken Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bag (about 10-12 oz) tortilla chips
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- 2 green onions, sliced (including green parts)
- Optional: jalapeños, sliced (fresh or pickled), for heat
- Optional: fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to bake, making a total of around 25 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick snack or meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your nachos will bake evenly and the cheese will melt beautifully.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken with about ¾ cup of your chosen BBQ sauce. Stir well so the chicken is nicely coated in the sauce and has lots of flavor.
3. Layer the Tortilla Chips:
On a baking sheet or an oven-safe platter, spread out a layer of tortilla chips evenly. This will form the base for your nachos.
4. Add the Chicken:
Distribute half of the BBQ chicken mixture over the tortilla chips. Try to spread it out evenly so every chip gets some BBQ goodness.
5. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken and chips. This way, you’ll get melty cheese in every bite!
6. Add More Layers:
Add another layer of tortilla chips on top. Then, add the remaining BBQ chicken over these chips. Finish this layer by sprinkling the rest of the cheese on top.
7. Bake the Nachos:
Place your nachos in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn!
8. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once the nachos are out of the oven, dollop some sour cream across the top. Then, sprinkle the diced red onion and sliced green onions on top for a fresh crunch.
9. Drizzle BBQ Sauce:
If desired, drizzle some extra BBQ sauce over the nachos for a tasty finishing touch. Feel free to add jalapeño slices or fresh cilantro if you like!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious BBQ Chicken Nachos right away for the best experience! Grab your favorite drink and enjoy this crowd-pleasing snack!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Store-Bought BBQ Sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought BBQ sauce is a great time-saver and comes in many delicious varieties. Feel free to pick your favorite, whether it’s sweet, smoky, or spicy!
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a substitute for sour cream, Greek yogurt works great! It has a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor. You can also use dairy-free yogurt if you’re following a dairy-free diet.
How Should I Store Leftover Nachos?
After enjoying your nachos, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a little extra cheese if desired!
Can I Make These Nachos Spicy?
Yes! To add some heat, include sliced jalapeños, either fresh or pickled, on top of your nachos. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce or add diced green chilies to the shredded chicken mix for an extra kick!
