Barbecue Chicken Nachos are a fun and tasty treat! Picture crispy tortilla chips loaded with shredded chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, gooey cheese, and fresh toppings.
These nachos are perfect for game day or movie night. I love adding extra jalapeños for a spicy kick! Trust me, you won’t be able to stop snacking! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips are a must! If you’re looking for a healthier option, try baked chips or even veggie chips. I like to use thicker chips, as they hold up better under all the toppings.
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. You can also use grilled chicken, cooked chicken breast, or even pulled pork if you prefer something different.
Barbecue Sauce: Whether store-bought or homemade, choose a sauce that matches your taste. For a tangy twist, try a vinegar-based BBQ sauce. Maple syrup can also be a fun substitute for sweetness.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it up! Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick, and queso blanco gives a creamy texture. Always use a blend for a richer flavor.
Fresh Toppings: The toppings are where you can get creative! Add corn, black olives, green onions, or even pickled jalapeños for extra zest.
How Can I Easily Shred Chicken for Nachos?
Shredding chicken can seem tricky, but it’s super easy! Here are some simple methods:
- Using a Fork: If your chicken is warm, use two forks to pull apart the meat. It breaks easily!
- Hand Shredding: Put on clean gloves and simply pull apart the chicken with your fingers. It’s a quick and hands-on method!
- Stand Mixer: If you have a stand mixer, toss the cooked chicken in the bowl. Use the paddle attachment on low speed for a few seconds. Your chicken will be shredded perfectly!
Shredding while the chicken is warm makes it easier. Plus, mix in some BBQ sauce right after shredding for extra flavor!
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 barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar and Monterey Jack blend)
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños, sliced
- 1 avocado, diced or sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Optional: extra BBQ sauce for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ Chicken Nachos recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to bake. So in just 20 minutes, you’ll have a plate of cheesy, flavorful nachos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything bakes evenly and the cheese gets nice and gooey!
2. Mix the Chicken with BBQ Sauce:
In a medium bowl, take your cooked shredded chicken and mix in about 3/4 cup of barbecue sauce until it’s all coated. This adds flavor and moisture to your chicken.
3. Arrange the Tortilla Chips:
On a large baking sheet, spread the tortilla chips out in an even layer. Make sure to cover the sheet well so every chip gets a topping!
4. Add the BBQ Chicken:
Now, scatter the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the chips. This way, every bite will be filled with tasty chicken.
5. Sprinkle with Cheese:
Next, add the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken and chips. The more cheese, the better!
6. Bake the Nachos:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
7. Add Toppings:
Once done, carefully remove the nachos from the oven. Use a spoon to add dollops of sour cream over the top for a creamy finish.
8. Fresh Veggies and Herbs:
Finally, sprinkle your diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, sliced jalapeños, avocado pieces, and fresh cilantro on top. This adds freshness and crunch!
9. Drizzle with Extra BBQ Sauce:
If you love extra flavor, drizzle some barbecue sauce over the loaded nachos before serving!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Grab some plates and serve these delicious BBQ chicken nachos immediately. Dig in and enjoy every cheesy, crunchy bite!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds excellent flavor. Just ensure to shred the chicken and mix it with barbecue sauce before adding it to the nachos.
Can I Make These Nachos Spicy?
Yes! You can add more sliced jalapeños, or even include diced serrano peppers for extra heat. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before serving can also spice things up!
How Can I Store Leftover Nachos?
To store leftovers, place any uneaten nachos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheating might cause the chips to get a bit soggy, so it’s best to eat them fresh!
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to add toppings like black beans, corn, or olives. You can also switch the cheese for a different blend or skip the sour cream for a dairy-free option!