Chicken Nachos

Chicken Nachos are the ultimate party snack or quick dinner—crispy tortilla chips piled high with seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and all your favorite toppings. Whether you’re hosting game night, feeding a hungry family, or just craving something savory and satisfying, this easy dish never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These nachos are a crowd-pleaser with layers of texture and flavor in every bite. They’re quick to assemble, easy to customize, and perfect for using up leftover chicken. From melty cheese to fresh toppings like salsa and avocado, every chip delivers bold, delicious flavor. Great for sharing—or not.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• Taco seasoning or a mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika
• Tortilla chips
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• Black beans (rinsed and drained)
• Jalapeños (sliced, optional)
• Red onion (diced)
• Corn (optional)
• Olive oil (for tossing chicken)

Toppings (optional):

• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Guacamole or diced avocado
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges
• Pickled jalapeños

directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with taco seasoning and a bit of olive oil. Warm briefly in a skillet if needed.
3. Spread a layer of tortilla chips over the baking sheet.
4. Evenly distribute seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, red onion, and jalapeños over the chips.
5. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and top with your favorite fresh toppings. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4–6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• BBQ chicken nachos: Toss the chicken in BBQ sauce instead of taco seasoning.
• Buffalo chicken: Use shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce and drizzle with ranch after baking.
• Loaded veggie: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives for a more veggie-forward dish.
• Spicy version: Add fresh or pickled jalapeños and hot sauce for extra heat.
• Low-carb option: Use mini bell pepper halves or low-carb chips instead of tortillas.

storage/reheating

Nachos are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes to re-crisp the chips and melt the cheese again. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the chips soggy. Store fresh toppings separately and add after reheating.

FAQs

What’s the best chicken for nachos?

Leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled, or baked chicken breast all work well—just shred or dice it before seasoning.

Can I make chicken nachos ahead of time?

You can prep the components ahead, but assemble and bake right before serving for the best texture.

How do I keep nachos from getting soggy?

Use thick, sturdy chips and avoid layering too many wet ingredients like salsa before baking.

Can I use pre-cooked or canned chicken?

Yes, just season and warm it up before adding to your nachos.

What kind of cheese melts best for nachos?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Mexican blends melt beautifully and offer great flavor.

Are chicken nachos gluten-free?

They can be—just use certified gluten-free tortilla chips and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I grill these nachos instead of baking?

Yes, place the sheet pan on a grill over indirect heat until the cheese melts.

Can I add a layer of chips and toppings?

Yes, build in layers for extra cheesy bites throughout—just reduce the baking time slightly.

What sides go well with chicken nachos?

Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Can I make these with different meats?

Absolutely. Try ground beef, carnitas, or shredded pork for delicious variations.

Conclusion

Chicken Nachos are a fast, flavorful, and fun dish that brings people together. Crispy chips, gooey cheese, and flavorful toppings make every bite a hit. Whether you’re hosting friends or making a casual dinner at home, this recipe is easy to customize and always a crowd favorite.

Print