I’ve been making simple chicken nachos for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. The dish is a staple in many parts of the world, especially in Mexico and the southwestern United States.
The combination of crispy tortilla chips, melted cheese, and juicy chicken is a match made in heaven. One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make.
You can use pre-shredded cheese and pre-cooked chicken to save time, and it still turns out delicious. My kids love helping me assemble the nachos, and it’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen.
We often have this recipe for family gatherings, parties, and even just a quick weeknight dinner. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and I’m sure your family will love it just as much as mine does.
The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, especially the cheese. A good melting cheese makes all the difference in the world.
I like to use a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a rich, creamy flavor. You can also customize the recipe to your liking by adding jalapenos, sour cream, or other toppings.
Simple Chicken Nachos
4.9 from 1183 votes
Crispy tortilla chips topped with seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and your favorite nacho toppings. A quick and easy meal perfect for game nights or movie nights.
1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3Cut the chicken breast into small pieces and place in a large bowl.
4Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken and toss to coat.
5Make sure the chicken is evenly coated and set aside.
6Spread the tortilla chips evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
7Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping too much.
8Place the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the tortilla chips, distributing them evenly across the surface.
9Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken and chips.
10Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed to ensure all the chips and chicken are covered.
11Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
12While the nachos are baking, prepare the salsa by combining diced tomatoes, diced onion, diced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro in a separate bowl.
13Mix well and set aside.
14Remove the nachos from the oven and let them cool for 2-3 minutes.
15This will allow the cheese to set slightly and make it easier to add the toppings.
16Top the nachos with diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and chopped onions.
17Drizzle sour cream and guacamole over the top.
18Serve immediately with the prepared salsa on the side.
Tips: For extra crispy chips, bake them separately for 5-7 minutes before adding the chicken and cheese. You can also add cooked black beans or sliced avocado for added flavor and nutrition.
Watch Video Of How Simple Chicken Nachos Works
This simple chicken nachos recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a quick weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make ahead of time and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 24 hours before baking.
When reheating leftover nachos, simply place them under the broiler for a few minutes until crispy and hot throughout. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce – salsa or guacamole are great options!
This recipe makes enough for 6-8 servings, so feel free to double or triple it as needed.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Nachos
Q: What type of tortilla chips should I use for this recipe?
A: You can use any brand or type of tortilla chips you like, but I prefer to use a sturdy chip that won’t break apart when topped with cheese and chicken. Some popular brands include Tostitos and Fritos.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast or thighs for this recipe. Just thaw them according to package instructions before shredding or dicing them.
Q: How do I prevent my tortilla chips from getting soggy?
A: To prevent your tortilla chips from getting soggy, be sure to layer them on top of each other in a single layer on a baking sheet before topping with cheese and chicken. This will help them stay crispy throughout the cooking process.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the nachos without baking them, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Q: What are some good alternatives to shredded cheese?
A: If you don’t have shredded cheese on hand, you can substitute it with sliced cheese or shredded mozzarella. You can also use a combination of cheddar and Parmesan for a rich, creamy flavor.
Q: Can I add other toppings to this recipe?
A: Yes, feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite toppings! Some popular additions include diced onions, sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapenos.
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