Easy BBQ Chicken Nachos Recipe

What could be better than a plateful of warm, cheesy bbq chicken nachos? This dish combines crispy tortilla chips with juicy barbecue chicken, melted cheese, and an array of delightful toppings that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for game days, parties, or any casual gathering, these nachos promise to be a showstopper at your next event.

Imagine the tantalizing aroma of smoky barbecue wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this delicious treat. The crunch of the chips contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and gooey cheese. With each bite, you’ll experience a burst of flavors that are both savory and satisfying. Get ready to impress family and friends with this easy-to-make recipe that comes together in just a few simple steps!

Why You’ll Love This bbq chicken nachos

  • Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe takes minimal time to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
  • Customizable Toppings: You can personalize your nachos with a variety of toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, or guacamole to suit everyone’s taste.
  • Perfect for Sharing: These hearty nachos are ideal for sharing with friends and family during parties or movie nights.

Ingredients for bbq chicken nachos

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many servings you need.
  • BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for the best flavor.
  • Tortilla Chips: Use thick-cut chips for added crunch; they hold the toppings better than thin ones.
  • Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully over the nachos.

For the Toppings:

  • Sour Cream: Adds creaminess that balances out the spice from jalapeños or other toppings.
  • Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled jalapeños give a nice kick that pairs well with the sweetness of BBQ sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make bbq chicken nachos

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your nachos will bake evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the seasoned chicken breasts until they reach an internal temperature of165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and shred using two forks.

Step 3: Mix with BBQ Sauce

Combine the shredded chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce in a bowl until fully coated.

Step 4: Assemble Nachos

Spread a layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top them generously with the BBQ chicken mixture and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.

Step 5: Bake

Place in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Remove from the oven and add your desired toppings such as jalapeños and sour cream before serving.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional BBQ sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

  • Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh ingredients when possible; they make a noticeable difference in flavor.
  • Don’t Overload Chips: Be careful not to overload each chip too much; it makes them soggy instead of crunchy.
  • Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary; watch closely to avoid burning your cheese during baking.
  • Add Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with chopped cilantro can enhance both presentation and flavor significantly.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Overloading the Nachos: One common mistake people make is piling on too many toppings. While it can be tempting to add every ingredient you have, this often leads to soggy nachos. Instead, focus on a balanced distribution of toppings like shredded chicken, cheese, and BBQ sauce. This way, each bite remains crunchy and flavorful. Aim for a harmonious blend that enhances the taste of your BBQ chicken nachos without overwhelming them.
  • Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients greatly affects the outcome of your BBQ chicken nachos. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken and cheese to elevate the dish’s flavor. Avoid pre-packaged sauces with additives, and instead, create your own BBQ sauce at home if you can. Investing in good ingredients ensures that your nachos taste incredible and are worth making again.
  • Neglecting the Cheese Layer: Cheese plays a crucial role in binding all the flavors together in BBQ chicken nachos. Many people forget to layer cheese properly or skimp on it altogether. Ensure you cover the chips generously with cheese before adding other toppings. This not only adds richness but also helps keep everything intact when melted, creating a gooey and satisfying experience.

Serving Suggestions

This bbq chicken nachos is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

  • Guacamole: The creamy texture of guacamole complements the spicy and smoky flavors of the nachos beautifully.
  • Fresh Salsa: A zesty salsa adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your bbq chicken nachos.
  • Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the heat and richness, making each bite even more enjoyable.

FAQs

FAQs

What is the best way to store leftover bbq chicken nachos?

To store leftover bbq chicken nachos, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. This method keeps the nachos from getting soggy. Ideally, consume leftovers within two days. When reheating, spread them out on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore some crispiness while warming the toppings.

Can I make bbq chicken nachos vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily customize your bbq chicken nachos to be vegetarian by replacing the chicken with grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Additionally, consider using plant-based proteins like shredded jackfruit or tofu marinated in BBQ sauce for a delicious twist. Keep all other toppings like cheese and jalapeños to maintain that classic nacho flair.

How can I make my own BBQ sauce for these nachos?

Making your own BBQ sauce for these nachos is simple and rewarding. Start with ketchup as a base and add brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess according to your taste preferences. Simmer this mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly. This homemade sauce will elevate your bbq chicken nachos significantly!

What type of cheese works best for bbq chicken nachos?

When preparing bbq chicken nachos, opt for cheeses that melt well to create a gooey texture. Cheddar cheese is a popular choice due to its sharp flavor. However, you can also mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little heat. For an extra touch of creaminess, consider adding queso blanco or a drizzle of cheese sauce. Combining these cheeses gives your dish added depth and richness.

Conclusion for bbq chicken nachos

In conclusion, making delicious bbq chicken nachos is a straightforward process that yields fantastic results. Begin by preparing seasoned shredded chicken combined with tangy BBQ sauce on crispy tortilla chips. Enhance this dish with toppings like melted cheese, jalapeños, and fresh herbs. Serving suggestions such as guacamole and sour cream further elevate this dish’s appeal. Remember that customizing ingredients allows you to tailor this recipe to various dietary needs or preferences while still enjoying those sought-after flavors that make bbq chicken nachos a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy every bite!

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BBQ Chicken Nachos


  • Author: Mery Mack
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

BBQ Chicken Nachos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining crispy tortilla chips, tender shredded chicken coated in tangy BBQ sauce, and gooey melted cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for game days, parties, or a cozy night in with family and friends. With customizable toppings like jalapeños and sour cream, you can tailor this recipe to suit everyone’s taste. The delightful mix of flavors and textures will have everyone reaching for seconds! Follow this simple recipe for a delicious snack that’s sure to impress.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 8 oz thick-cut tortilla chips
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack blend)
  • sour cream
  • jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cook chicken in a skillet until it reaches 165°F (74°C), then shred.
  3. Mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until well-coated.
  4. Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet; top with BBQ chicken and cheese.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes until cheese is melted.
  6. Add desired toppings before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 240g)
  • Calories: 510
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 46g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for best flavor. Avoid overloading chips to maintain crunchiness. For vegetarian options, replace chicken with grilled veggies or plant-based proteins.

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Mery Mack

Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Mery Mack! Growing up in the heart of Louisiana, I discovered my love for cooking while helping my mom prepare family dinners. After earning my degree at Le Cordon Bleu, I embarked on a journey to explore diverse cuisines and unique cooking styles. This blog is my labor of love—a place to share mouthwatering recipes that celebrate good food and great company. Join me as we create memories, one dish at a time!

Chef Ann