BBQ Chicken Nachos are the perfect balance of smoky, savory, and cheesy deliciousness layered over crunchy tortilla chips. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, prepping for a weeknight dinner, or simply satisfying a serious snack craving, this dish delivers every time.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick to Make – Ideal for busy nights or last-minute entertaining.
Loaded with Flavor – BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and melty cheese are an irresistible combo.
Customizable – Easily adapted with your favorite toppings or spice level.
Great for Sharing – Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners.
Ingredients List
For the Chicken:
2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
For the Nachos:
1 bag (10–12 oz) tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
½ cup canned black beans (rinsed and drained)
½ cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
¼ cup sliced red onions
¼ cup pickled jalapeños (optional)
For Toppings:
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
¼ cup sour cream or crema
1 avocado (sliced or diced)
2 tablespoons chopped green onions
Lime wedges for serving
Timing & Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Step-by-Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Nachos
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken with BBQ sauce. Stir well so the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 3: Assemble the First Layer
Spread half of the tortilla chips on the baking sheet. Add half of the BBQ chicken, cheese, beans, corn, onions, and jalapeños.
Step 4: Add the Second Layer
Layer the remaining chips on top, then repeat with the rest of the toppings. This layering ensures every bite is flavorful and cheesy.
Step 5: Bake
Place the tray in the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and immediately top with avocado, sour cream, green onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve warm.
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Nachos
Use Freshly Cooked Chicken
While rotisserie chicken works in a pinch, freshly cooked chicken absorbs BBQ sauce better for a richer flavor.
Don’t Overload Chips
Adding too many toppings can make your nachos soggy. Keep a good balance between chips and toppings.
Use a Blend of Cheeses
Combining cheddar and Monterey Jack provides both flavor and excellent melting quality.
Bake, Don’t Microwave
Baking the nachos in the oven ensures crispy chips and perfectly melted cheese. Avoid microwaving unless you’re reheating leftovers.
Homemade BBQ Sauce Option
If you want to elevate your nachos even further, consider making your own BBQ sauce. Here’s a quick recipe:
1 cup ketchup
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Simmer all ingredients in a saucepan for 10 minutes until thickened.
Variations and Add-ins
Swap the Protein
Try shredded pork or beef brisket instead of chicken.
Make it vegetarian with seasoned jackfruit or sautéed mushrooms.
Add Extra Toppings
Diced tomatoes
Sliced olives
Crumbled bacon
Diced bell peppers
Spice It Up
Add fresh jalapeños, hot sauce, or chipotle powder if you like your nachos extra spicy.
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Nachos
BBQ Chicken Nachos are satisfying on their own, but you can serve them alongside:
Fresh Garden Salad – To balance the richness.
Coleslaw – A tangy, crunchy complement.
Guacamole & Salsa – For dipping on the side.
Iced Tea or Margaritas – To wash everything down.
Storing and Reheating
Storing
Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, store toppings like sour cream and avocado separately.
Reheating
To reheat, spread the nachos on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 8 minutes until the cheese melts again and the chips regain some crispness.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prep most ingredients ahead:
Cook and shred the chicken
Mix it with BBQ sauce
Shred the cheese
Chop your vegetables
Store each component separately and assemble just before baking.
Serving Suggestions for Parties
Serve BBQ Chicken Nachos in a large sheet pan or divide into small trays or cast-iron skillets for individual servings at parties. Add a toppings bar for guests to personalize their nachos.
Nutrition Overview (Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 420
Protein: 22g
Carbs: 38g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 8g
Nutrition will vary based on toppings and BBQ sauce brand.
FAQs
Can I make BBQ Chicken Nachos in an air fryer?
Yes, you can layer the nachos in a heat-safe dish and air fry at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. It’s a great shortcut. Just shred and mix with BBQ sauce before layering.
How do I prevent soggy nachos?
Use a double-layer method with chips and minimal moisture-heavy toppings. Serve immediately after baking.
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Nachos?
Not recommended. The chips get soggy, and the texture won’t hold up well. It’s best to make fresh.
What kind of BBQ sauce is best?
Sweet and smoky sauces pair especially well, but feel free to use spicy or tangy versions based on your preference.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Nachos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They’re cheesy, smoky, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. Whether you serve them for game night, a casual get-together, or a weeknight dinner, these nachos will always disappear fast. With a few simple ingredients and your favorite toppings, you’ll have a tray of irresistible nachos ready in no time.