Easy BBQ Chicken Nachos Recipe for Game Day

Name: Easy BBQ Chicken Nachos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz tortilla chips; 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced; 1 cup BBQ sauce; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; ½ cup fresh jalapeños, sliced (adjust to taste); ½ cup sour cream; 1 avocado, sliced or ½ cup guacamole; ¼ cup chopped cilantro

Published: October 5, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe for BBQ chicken nachos is simple yet utterly satisfying.
You can adjust toppings based on personal preference or pantry availability.
The colorful presentation is sure to impress your guests and make any gathering festive.
Ideal for game days or casual get-togethers with friends and family.

My friends still rave about the time I made these BBQ chicken nachos during our movie marathon night—it was a hit!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Tortilla Chips: Choose sturdy chips that can hold up under the weight of all those toppings.
Cooked Chicken Breast: Shredded or diced, use leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken for convenience.
BBQ Sauce: Go for your favorite brand; a smoky variety adds depth to the flavor profile.
Shredded Cheese: A combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds richness.
Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled, they add a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
Sour Cream: A dollop on top cools down the heat while adding creaminess.
Avocado or Guacamole: Fresh avocado slices or creamy guacamole elevate this dish to new heights.
Chopped Cilantro: For garnish, it brings freshness and color to your platter!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Chicken Base: Cook your choice of chicken breast until fully cooked through. Shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces while it’s still warm.

Add Some Flavor: Toss the shredded chicken in BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Don’t be shy; let that sauce work its magic!

Create Your Layered Masterpiece: On a large platter or baking sheet, spread out tortilla chips in an even layer. Top generously with the sauced chicken.

Pile on the Goodness: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the entire surface like you’re casting a cheesy spell. Add jalapeños according to your heat preference.

Bake Until Golden and Gooey : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Add Finishing Touches : Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before garnishing with dollops of sour cream, fresh avocado slices or guacamole, and chopped cilantro.

Now that you have an irresistible plate of BBQ chicken nachos ready to go, gather your friends around!

You Must Know

These BBQ chicken nachos are not just snacks; they’re a fiesta on a plate!
The combination of smoky chicken and cheesy goodness creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for game day or any gathering.
Plus, they’re easy to customize based on your preferences!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by shredding cooked chicken with barbecue sauce while preheating your oven to 350°F. Next, layer your chips and toppings before baking for about 10 minutes until the cheese melts perfectly.

Add Your Touch

Consider swapping out traditional ingredients for a twist! Try adding jalapeños for spice or black beans for extra protein. The beauty of nachos is their versatility!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, keeping them crispy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To elevate these BBQ chicken nachos, ensure even distribution of toppings.
Avoid overloading one side with cheese while leaving the other bare.
Always preheat your oven; it helps achieve that melty perfection you crave!

I remember the first time I made BBQ chicken nachos for my friends; they devoured them within minutes and begged for seconds. It felt amazing to see everyone enjoying my creation!

FAQ

What type of chips works best for BBQ chicken nachos?

Thicker tortilla chips hold up better against toppings without getting soggy.

Can I make BBQ chicken nachos vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with sautéed veggies or black beans for a delicious twist.

How can I spice up my BBQ sauce?

Add hot sauce or smoked paprika to give your sauce an extra kick!

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