These BBQ Chicken Nachos are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or game day snack that’s loaded with flavor and easy to customize. Crispy tortilla chips are piled high with tender shredded chicken, a tangy BBQ sauce, and all your favorite nacho toppings. They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family, and they’re sure to disappear fast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Fun: These nachos are a delicious combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors, with a variety of textures that will keep you coming back for more.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these nachos are a breeze to assemble.
- Versatile: You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings, such as different cheeses, vegetables, or sauces.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious BBQ Chicken Nachos:
- Tortilla chips: Use your favorite type of tortilla chips, such as plain, salted, or flavored.
- Cooked chicken: Shredded, you can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- BBQ sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce.
- Red onion: Chopped, for flavor and texture.
- Black beans: Adds protein and a hearty texture.
- Corn: Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
- Shredded cheese: Use smoked gouda, mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Cilantro: Chopped, for a fresh herb flavor.
Optional Toppings:
- Ranch dressing: Adds a creamy and tangy element.
- Chopped jalapeño peppers: Adds a spicy kick.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Nachos
Step 1: Preheat and Combine
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken and BBQ sauce.
Step 2: Layer the Nachos
Spread a layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Top with the BBQ chicken mixture, chopped red onion, black beans, corn, and shredded cheese.
Step 3: Bake
Bake the nachos in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove the nachos from the oven and top with chopped cilantro and jalapeño peppers (if using). Drizzle with ranch dressing and extra BBQ sauce, if desired. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure the nachos have enough space for the heat to circulate properly. Bake in batches if necessary.
- Use a variety of toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding other vegetables, such as diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or olives.
- Make it a meal: Serve the nachos with a side salad or some fruit for a complete and satisfying meal.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Nachos
- Game Day Snack: These nachos are perfect for game day parties or tailgating.
- Party Appetizer: Serve them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for any gathering.
- Casual Dinner: Enjoy them as a casual dinner with friends or family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use shredded pork, beef, or even a plant-based meat substitute instead of chicken.
Can I make these nachos vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken or use a vegetarian alternative, such as black beans or lentils.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a blend of cheeses.
How can I make these nachos spicier?
Use a spicier BBQ sauce or add more jalapeño peppers. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chicken mixture.
There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for BBQ Chicken Nachos that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
Print
BBQ Chicken Nachos Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These BBQ Chicken Nachos are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or game-day snack that’s loaded with flavor. Crispy tortilla chips are piled high with tender BBQ chicken, black beans, corn, and melted cheese, then finished with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 large bag of tortilla chips
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 3/4 cup barbecue sauce, plus more for topping
- 1/3 cup red onion, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups corn, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheese (smoked gouda, mozzarella, or cheddar)
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
Optional Toppings:
- Ranch dressing
- Chopped jalapeño peppers
Instructions
- Preheat and Combine: Preheat oven to 350°F. In a bowl, combine shredded chicken and barbecue sauce.
- Layer Nachos: Create a base layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Top with the chicken mixture, red onion, black beans, corn, and shredded cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with cilantro and jalapeño peppers (if using). Drizzle with ranch dressing and extra barbecue sauce, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Chicken: Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Cheese: You can use any type of cheese you like, but a smoked gouda or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar works well.
- Make Ahead: The nachos can be assembled ahead of time and baked later.
- Variations:
- Add other toppings, such as diced tomatoes, avocado, or sour cream.
- Use a different type of barbecue sauce, such as honey BBQ or spicy BBQ.
- Make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using a plant-based meat substitute or extra beans.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
