If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser, look no further than these BBQ Chicken Nachos—melty, smoky, and loaded with bright flavors in every bite. This playful twist on classic nachos layers tender barbecue-slathered chicken with two types of cheese, sweet corn, creamy black beans, zingy onions, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, all nestled over crisp tortilla chips. Whether for an easy weeknight dinner, a party starter, or game day fuel, BBQ Chicken Nachos are the answer to just about any gathering’s snack cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of everyday staples—when combined just right—can create a nacho platter that totally wows. Each ingredient is more than just a component: it adds specific flavor, color, or satisfying crunch to really make these BBQ Chicken Nachos pop.
- Tortilla chips: Go for sturdy, restaurant-style chips; they’ll keep their crunch beneath all those toppings.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a speedy shortcut, but any leftover chicken will work beautifully.
- BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite—sweet, smoky, or spicy, it sets the tone for the whole dish.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts deliciously, adding a sharp, classic nacho flavor.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Balances the cheddar with a mild creaminess and great melt factor.
- Red onion, thinly sliced: Brings a pop of color and a crisp, slightly sweet bite to the mix.
- Canned black beans, drained and rinsed: Add hearty, earthy flavor and a little protein boost.
- Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned): For pockets of sweetness and sunny color in every mouthful.
- Pickled jalapeños (optional): Lend a zesty, tangy heat that brightens each bite—add as much as you dare!
- Chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and herbaceous aroma as the final flourish.
- Sour cream or ranch dressing: Whether drizzled or dolloped, it brings creamy coolness to balance the rich toppings.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Nachos
Step 1: Prep and Mix the BBQ Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. In a mixing bowl, toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until every strand is glossy and coated. This simple step infuses the chicken with sweet, smoky flavor—the star of our BBQ Chicken Nachos!
Step 2: Layer the Chips and Toppings
Grab your biggest baking sheet or an oven-safe platter. Spread half the tortilla chips in an even layer. Top with half the BBQ chicken, then scatter on both cheeses, sliced onions, black beans, corn, and a few pickled jalapeños if you like things spicy. Don’t stress about making it perfect—this is the fun part!
Step 3: Repeat for Extra Goodness
Layer the remaining chips right over the top, followed by the rest of the BBQ chicken and all those colorful toppings. This double layering means you get melty, cheesy magic and toppings in every. single. bite.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling
Pop the whole tray into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to get those irresistible golden edges.
Step 5: Finish with Freshness
Once out of the oven, immediately sprinkle the nachos with plenty of chopped fresh cilantro. Right before serving, drizzle with sour cream or ranch dressing (or both, if you can’t decide!). Serve the BBQ Chicken Nachos warm and get ready for serious nacho joy.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Nachos
Garnishes
Don’t let the fun stop with the last drizzle—pile on extra garnishes like diced avocado, sliced green onions, or a squeeze of lime for a fresh, zippy kick. Even an extra shower of cilantro or scallions can make the platter look irresistible and taste even brighter.
Side Dishes
BBQ Chicken Nachos shine on their own, but they pair perfectly with simple sides. Try crisp coleslaw, a fresh tomato salad, or cool guacamole to round out your spread. If you’re feeding a crowd, bowls of tortilla chips with salsa or extra dips make the fiesta even better.
Creative Ways to Present
Switch things up by serving BBQ Chicken Nachos in individual mini cast iron skillets, or create a nacho bar with toppings for everyone to build their own plate. For parties, you can even bake and serve the nachos on parchment paper for a casual, picnic-style experience right at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover BBQ Chicken Nachos, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. While they’re best enjoyed fresh, these nachos still pack a tasty punch as a midnight snack or speedy lunch the next day.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t ideal for assembled nachos, since the chips can get soggy. However, you can freeze the BBQ chicken mixture separately and thaw it before reassembling for a future nacho night—just layer with fresh chips and cheese before baking.
Reheating
To bring your nachos back to life, reheat them in a 350°F oven on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This way, they’ll crisp up nicely and the cheese will get melty again. The microwave will work in a pinch, but use the oven for the best texture!
FAQs
Can I use another kind of meat instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Pulled pork or even leftover turkey both work beautifully in place of chicken. Just toss your cooked meat with BBQ sauce and follow the same layering steps for that irresistible BBQ flavor.
What type Appetizer
Use whatever BBQ sauce you love most! Some prefer a sweet and smoky Kansas City style, while others like a tangy Carolina sauce or even one with a spicy kick. Let your taste buds take the lead.
How can I make these nachos vegetarian?
Skip the chicken and double up on beans, corn, and your favorite veggies—grilled zucchini or mushrooms are fantastic. Swap in a plant-based BBQ sauce if needed, and keep all the cheese and toppings for plant-based BBQ Chicken Nachos without missing any of the joy!
Can I make BBQ Chicken Nachos gluten-free?
Yes! Just make sure you’re using certified gluten-free tortilla chips and a gluten-free BBQ sauce. Many store-bought versions are safe, but always double-check the labels to be sure.
How do I keep nachos from getting soggy?
The best trick is to layer the cheese right after the chips so it acts as a moisture barrier. Also, bake just before serving and try to avoid overloading with too much sauce or extra wet toppings until just before eating.
Final Thoughts
If you love nachos and crave comfort food with personality, you can’t go wrong with BBQ Chicken Nachos. They’re easy to make, wildly flavorful, and guaranteed to bring people together around the table. Give them a try—and don’t be surprised if they disappear faster than you can say “nacho night”!
Print
BBQ Chicken Nachos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These BBQ Chicken Nachos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, loaded with savory shredded chicken, gooey cheeses, and flavorful toppings. Perfect for game day or any gathering!
Ingredients
Tortilla Chips:
- 8 ounces
Shredded Chicken:
- 2 cups
BBQ Sauce:
- 1/2 cup
Cheddar Cheese, shredded:
- 1 1/2 cups
Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded:
- 1 cup
Red Onion, thinly sliced:
- 1/4 cup
Black Beans, canned:
- 1/2 cup, drained and rinsed
Corn:
- 1/2 cup (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Pickled Jalapeños (optional):
- 1/4 cup
Fresh Cilantro, chopped:
- 1/4 cup
Sour Cream or Ranch Dressing for drizzling:
- 1/4 cup
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
- On a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter, spread half of the tortilla chips. Top with half the BBQ chicken, cheeses, red onion, black beans, corn, and jalapeños.
- Repeat with the remaining chips and toppings. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Drizzle with sour cream or ranch dressing before serving. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Add avocado, diced tomatoes, or green onions for extra flavor and color.
- For a spicier version, use spicy BBQ sauce or add hot sauce before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
