Killer Chicken Nachos from Oven to Awesome in Under an Hour

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever find yourself craving a mountain of flavour? My chicken nachos recipe is your answer! Honestly, it's the ultimate comfort food with crispy chips, juicy chicken, and a creamy, cheesy sauce.

Get ready to ditch those sad microwave meals!

Brief Overview

Nachos, born in Mexico, are perfect for sharing. This baked chicken nachos recipe is simple and fast. Ready in 35 minutes, it serves 6 as an appetizer or 4 as a light meal.

So gather round, it's nacho time!

Main Benefits

This recipe is packed with protein! Serving these best ever chicken nachos is perfect for game day. What makes them special? The homemade cheese sauce , mate!

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Chicken

First, grab 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You also need 1 tbsp olive oil. Next, get 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, and 1/4 tsp each of garlic and onion powder.

Salt and pepper are essential too.

Cheese Sauce Goodness

Right, for the cheese sauce, you'll need 2 tbsp unsalted butter. Also, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour. 1.5 cups whole milk is important.

8 oz shredded cheddar cheese and 2 oz shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Finally, 1/4 tsp salt and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you're feeling brave!

Nacho Assembly Central

You'll need one large bag of sturdy tortilla chips. A can of black beans is a must, drained and rinsed.

Add 1/2 cup sliced pickled jalapeños and 1/2 cup diced red onion. Some quartered cherry tomatoes (1/2 cup) and 1/4 cup chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.

Sour cream and guacamole are optional, but highly recommended!

Okay, let's get this nacho party started! These shredded chicken nachos are about to blow your mind! Trust me, you need this in your life.

Tips and Tricks

Remember, using sturdy chips is critical ! Also, freshly grated cheese melts much better. If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk. Don't use pre-shredded cheese.

Alright, let's get this nacho party started! We're diving headfirst into the world of Killer Chicken Nachos . These aren't your average, soggy nachos. These are the real deal!

Ingredients & Equipment

Okay, let's get this nacho party started with some killer ! You know, those search terms that are gonna have your chicken nachos recipe rocketing up the Google charts.

Main Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor

This shredded chicken nachos recipe needs quality ingredients. Get ready to assemble your dream team.

• Chicken Breasts: 1.5 lbs (680g) . Look for plump, pink chicken.
• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (15ml) . Extra virgin is best.
• Chili Powder: 1 tsp (5g) . Go for a smoky chili powder if you have it.
• Cumin: 1/2 tsp (2.5g) . Essential for that authentic flavor.
• Garlic Powder: 1/4 tsp (1.25g) .
• Onion Powder: 1/4 tsp (1.25g) .
• Salt & Pepper: To taste.
• Butter: 2 tbsp (30g) . Unsalted, trust me on this.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 tbsp (15g) .
• Whole Milk: 1.5 cups (355ml) .
• Cheddar Cheese: 8 oz (225g) . Sharp or medium is great.
• Monterey Jack Cheese: 2 oz (55g) .
• Salt: 1/4 tsp (1.25g) .
• Cayenne Pepper: A pinch. Just a bit for a kick.
• Tortilla Chips: 1 large bag (approx. 12 oz/340g) . Sturdy ones are the key for the best ever chicken nachos.
• Black Beans: 1 can (15 oz/425g) . Rinsed and drained, please.
• Pickled Jalapeños: 1/2 cup (approx. 70g) .
• Red Onion: 1/2 cup (approx. 60g) . Finely diced for a nice bite.
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1/2 cup (approx. 75g) . Quartered for easy snacking.
• Fresh Cilantro: 1/4 cup (approx. 40g) . Chopped fresh.
• Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: For serving, if you like.
• Guacamole: Ditto!

Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Life

It’s all about flavour. Don’t be shy!

The chili powder and cumin combo is the backbone. A pinch of cayenne can elevate the cheese sauce. You can sub in other ingredients, to make quick chicken nachos recipe.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

You don't need fancy gear for easy chicken nachos . I promise.

• Large Skillet: For cooking your chicken.
• Medium Saucepan: To make that glorious cheese sauce.
• Baking Sheet (large): To bake the baked chicken nachos recipe .
• Cheese Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better, remember?
• Chopping Board & Sharp Knife: For your veggies.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accuracy is key!
• Mixing Bowls: To keep things organized.

Honest to god, that's it. If you don't have a skillet, a frying pan will do. No cheese grater? Buy pre-shredded, but remember, it might not melt as well.

Now, let's get cooking.

Cooking Method for Epic Chicken Nachos

Alright, let's talk technique! It's time to unravel the secrets to creating the best ever chicken nachos . Don't stress, it's not rocket science.

We're aiming for that golden brown, melty cheese perfection that'll have everyone begging for seconds. Honestly, I've had my share of nacho fails.

Soggy chips and bland chicken, are now in the past. We're focusing on the assembly process to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Prep Steps: Your Nacho Game Plan

First, the essential mise en place . Get your chicken prepped, cheese sauce ready, and toppings chopped. This is key for smooth sailing.

Next, save time! Pre-shred your cheese and chop your veggies ahead of time. This is a game changer for busy weeknights.

I like to get the chicken done the day before and its ready to go!

Safety first! Be careful when handling hot pans and knives. Also, make sure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) .

step-by-step: Baked Chicken Nachos Recipe

Here's how to achieve nacho nirvana in under an hour!

1. Spread your tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Don't overcrowd.
2. Top with black beans , shredded chicken , red onion , and jalapeños .
3. Drizzle that glorious homemade cheese sauce generously over everything.
4. Bake in a preheated oven at 375° F ( 190° C) for 10- 15 minutes . The cheese needs to be bubbly and the chips toasty.
5. Garnish with cherry tomatoes and fresh cilantro .
6. Serve immediately! Don't forget the sour cream and guac.

Pro Tips for Next Level Nachos

Want to take your chicken nachos to the next level?

First, the chip choice matters! Use sturdy, restaurant style chips that can handle the weight. Another tip? Don't overload the baking sheet.

A single layer of chips ensures even toasting. It avoids the dreaded soggy bottom scenario.

A common mistake? Using pre-shredded cheese! Freshly grated cheese melts much better. Honestly, it makes all the difference. You know? For a make-ahead option, prep the cheese sauce and chicken earlier.

Then assemble and bake when you're ready.

Let's wrap this up with a little secret. These quick chicken nachos recipe are so good, they disappear fast. Get ready to be the MVP of game day! It's time to get cooking and enjoy the fiesta! Adding these naturally helps people who are searching for the perfect nacho recipe, find this page.

The shredded chicken nachos , with homemade cheese sauce nachos , is truly a killer dish! So, don't wait, grab the ingredients and lets go!

Recipe Notes: Nailing Your Killer Chicken Nachos

Okay, let's dive into some extra bits for this chicken nachos recipe . I'm sharing tips to ensure your nachos are the best ever ! Plus, ways to tweak it if you're feeling adventurous.

Honestly, I've messed up plenty of times. So, I'm here to help you avoid my nacho mishaps.

Serving Your Nachos Like a Pro

These baked chicken nachos recipe are not just about taste. It's also about how they look, yeah? Plating can make all the difference.

Think about layering your toppings. You know, some greenery from the cilantro? Maybe a dollop of sour cream strategically placed? It adds a touch of class.

For sides, I always think something fresh is key. A simple salad, or some of coleslaw works a treat. And to drink? An ice-cold beer or margarita just finishes it off perfectly!

Storage SOS!

So, you've made way too many nachos. No worries! If you have leftovers of these easy chicken nachos , get them in the fridge within two hours.

Use an airtight container, and they'll be good for about 3 days. Freezing isn't ideal. The chips can get soggy, you know? But if you must, freeze the chicken and cheese sauce separately.

Then reheat and assemble fresh. When reheating the whole thing, a low oven ( 300° F/ 150° C ) works best, so the chips stay crispy.

Nacho Remix: Variations on a Theme

Fancy a change? Why not! For a veggie version, swap the chicken for seasoned black beans. You can try roasted sweet potatoes for added flavour.

If you're avoiding gluten, no sweat. Loads of great gluten-free chips out there. Just make sure you check the cheese sauce ingredients too.

The best part about nacho toppings is, you can chop and change to your heart's content! I've even made a version with leftover pulled pork, once.

Total game changer.

Nutrition: The Good Stuff

Right, let's talk nutrition. I always think about it a bit, especially when I'm shoveling nachos into my face! A serving of these restaurant style nachos will give you a good hit of protein from the chicken.

Black beans add fiber. The cheese? Well, calcium, I suppose. Keep in mind that calories can be around 650-750 per serving.

So maybe don't eat the whole tray, eh?

Now, go on! Get in that kitchen and create your perfect shredded chicken nachos . Don't be afraid to experiment, and enjoy every single cheesy, spicy bite! You've got this, you can start a game day with your killer chicken nachos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the cheese sauce for this chicken nachos recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese sauce up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to assemble your nachos, gently reheat the sauce over low heat, stirring frequently, until smooth and creamy.

You might need to add a splash of milk to loosen it up again nobody wants clumpy cheese, right?

My nachos always seem to get soggy. What am I doing wrong?

Ah, the dreaded soggy nacho! There are a few things that could be causing this culinary catastrophe. First, make sure you're using sturdy, restaurant style tortilla chips thin ones will buckle under the weight.

Second, don't overload the chips with wet ingredients; drain your beans well and try to layer the ingredients to help the chips stay crisp. Finally, don't bake them for too long; you just want the cheese to melt, not to stew the chips!

What are some good variations on this chicken nachos recipe? I fancy something a bit different.

Fancy a bit of a twist, eh? You could try adding some diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the chicken for a smoky kick, or swapping out the cheddar for pepper jack cheese if you like a bit of heat.

For a vegetarian option, you can easily sub the chicken for black beans, roasted sweet potatoes, or even a plant based meat alternative. Think of the nachos as a blank canvas get creative and have a go! You could also use sweet potato chips as an alternative to the tortilla chips.

How long will leftover chicken nachos keep, and what's the best way to store them?

Leftover nachos are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have some remaining, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Be warned, though, the chips will likely lose their crispness.

Reheating isn't ideal, but you can try warming them in a low oven to try and crisp up the chips slightly, but it's best to consider them a fridge raid snack rather than a planned meal!

Are these chicken nachos recipe healthy?

Chicken nachos can be part of a balanced diet if you're mindful of the ingredients and portion sizes. To make them healthier, consider using leaner chicken, reducing the amount of cheese, and loading up on fresh veggies.

Serving with Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and making your own guacamole (packed with healthy fats!) can also help. Remember, moderation is key it's all about balance!