These Buffalo Chicken Nachos are a crowd-pleaser! Crispy chips are loaded with juicy buffalo chicken, gooey cheese, and topped with tangy ranch dressing. Yum!
Making these nachos is a fun way to get together with friends! I like to sprinkle some extra cheese on top and watch it melt. Who could resist that? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: Go for sturdy tortilla chips that can handle the toppings. If you’re looking for a healthier version, baked chips work well too, or you could use pita chips for a twist.
Shredded Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken since it’s ready to go and packed with flavor. You can substitute with leftover chicken or even shredded turkey if that’s what you have.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice, but you can use any buffalo sauce you enjoy, whether it’s mild, medium, or hot. Make your own by mixing hot sauce with butter for a fresh option!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts nicely and adds great flavor. If you prefer a different cheese or want to be dairy-free, try vegan cheese or Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
Blue Cheese: Crumbled blue cheese adds that distinct tang. If you’re not a fan, feta cheese is a good alternative, or just stick with more cheddar.
How Do You Prepare Buffalo Chicken for Your Nachos?
Getting the chicken ready is simple! Start by shredding your cooked chicken. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, just pull it apart with your hands or a fork. Then, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo wing sauce, making sure every piece is coated. This combines the flavor well and keeps the chicken moist!
- Use a medium bowl to mix shredded chicken and sauce until evenly blended.
- Adjust the sauce amount to your heat preference; add more for extra spice!
- If you’re cooking chicken yourself, poach or bake it with some seasoning, then shred it for the nachos.
Follow these tips, and your Buffalo Chicken Nachos will be a hit at any gathering!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups tortilla chips
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta cheese
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1-2 jalapeños, sliced (optional for heat)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep work and another 10 minutes to bake in the oven. Altogether, you’re looking at a quick 25-minute delicious snack! Perfect for parties or movie night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, let’s get your oven nice and warm. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) so that it’s all set for your nachos!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, take the cooked, shredded chicken and pour the buffalo wing sauce over it. Toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated with the sauce. This is where the flavor really starts to shine!
3. Layer the Chips:
On a large baking sheet or an oven-safe platter, spread out an even layer of tortilla chips. Make sure the chips are in a single layer so that they get all the tasty toppings.
4. Add the Chicken:
Now, take that delicious buffalo chicken and spread it evenly over the tortilla chips. You want a little bit of chicken in every bite!
5. Top with Cheese:
Time for some cheesy goodness! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chicken. This will melt beautifully and hold everything together.
6. Bake the Nachos:
Carefully place the nachos in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheese is melted and bubbly—then you’ll know they’re ready!
7. Add Final Touches:
Once baked, take the nachos out of the oven. Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese (or feta), chopped green onions, and sliced jalapeños (if you want a bit of heat) on top for that extra pop of flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
These nachos are best enjoyed hot! Serve them immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. Dive in and enjoy your spicy, cheesy Buffalo Chicken Nachos!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the buffalo sauce. It will be flavorful and tender!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you want to amp up the heat, consider using a spicier buffalo wing sauce, adding more jalapeños, or even incorporating diced fresh chili peppers. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper over the top for an extra kick!
Can I Make These Nachos Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the buffalo chicken up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just layer the chips, chicken, and cheese, then bake as directed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Nachos?
Leftover nachos can be tricky since they tend to get soggy. If you have leftovers, store the components separately—keep the chicken, cheese, and toppings in airtight containers. Reassemble and bake them fresh for the best taste!