Chicken Nachos

Chicken Nachos are a mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion—whether it’s game night, a casual dinner, or just a craving for something indulgent. With tender shredded chicken, melted cheese, and a variety of delicious toppings, these nachos are a fiesta of flavors that are as fun to make as they are to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Nachos recipe brings together crispy tortilla chips, savory seasoned chicken, and melted cheese for the perfect bite every time. The homemade seasoning and quick guacamole add a burst of flavor, while the sour cream and fresh cilantro balance out the richness. This dish is quick to assemble, ready in just 25 minutes, and can be customized with your favorite toppings, making it ideal for busy weeknights or parties.

Ingredients

For the Nachos:

• 250g / 8 oz tortilla or plain corn chips

• Shredded chicken for nachos (recipe below)

• 250g / 8 oz (2.5 cups) shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

• Quick guacamole (recipe below)

• Toppings: Sour cream, cilantro/coriander leaves, jalapeño (sliced or chopped)

For the Chicken for Nachos:

• 700g / 1.2 lb skinless, boneless chicken thighs or breast

• 1.5 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tsp sugar

• 1 cup (250ml) chicken broth (separated)

For the Homemade Nachos Meat Seasoning:

• 3 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tsp garlic powder

• 2 tsp onion powder

• 2 tsp dried oregano

• 3 tsp cumin powder

• 3 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Quick Guacamole:

• 2 medium avocados

• 3 tbsp coriander/cilantro, roughly chopped

• 2 tbsp lime juice (1 large lime)

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

Directions

For the Chicken for Nachos:

1. In a bowl, mix all the Nachos Meat Seasoning ingredients. Add 2 tbsp of the chicken broth and stir to form a loose paste.

2. Add the chicken to the paste and turn to coat it evenly.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3 minutes on each side (it’s okay if the inside is still raw). Remove the chicken and set it aside in a shallow dish.

4. In the same skillet, add the remaining chicken broth, tomato paste, sugar, and any remaining paste from the bowl. Stir to dissolve and bring to a simmer.

5. Shred the chicken using forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss it in the sauce. Simmer for 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce into a thick coating. Adjust the salt to taste and keep warm.

For the Quick Guacamole:

1. In a bowl, combine the avocados, cilantro, and lime juice. Use a potato masher to mash the mixture to your desired consistency.

2. Adjust with salt and pepper to taste.

For the Nachos:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F.

2. Place half of the corn chips on a baking tray, slightly overlapping. Top with half of the warm chicken and cheese.

3. Layer with the remaining chips and cheese. Bake for 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Garnish with cilantro and jalapeños. Serve immediately with quick guacamole and sour cream.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with black beans or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a vegetarian option.

• Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix and match cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack to suit your taste.

• Extra Toppings: Add diced tomatoes, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of chili powder for additional flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the nachos separately for the best results.

• Reheating: To reheat the chicken, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can reheat the nachos in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up again.

FAQs

1. Can I make the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it when ready to assemble the nachos.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese with your favorite cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a different flavor.

3. How can I make the nachos spicier?

You can add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the chicken or as a topping for some extra heat.

4. Can I use tortilla chips instead of corn chips?

Yes, tortilla chips work great for nachos! Just make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the toppings.

5. Can I make the nachos with soft tortillas instead of chips?

Yes, you can cut soft tortillas into wedges and bake them to create homemade chips as the base for your nachos.

6. How do I know when the nachos are ready?

The nachos are ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the chips are slightly golden. Keep an eye on them in the oven to avoid over-baking.

7. Can I freeze the leftover nachos?

While it’s best to enjoy nachos fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Store the nacho components separately and reheat them when needed.

8. Can I make the guacamole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the guacamole in advance. To prevent browning, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the guacamole, and refrigerate until ready to use.

9. Can I add more toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extras like diced onions, cilantro, or a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor.

10. Can I serve these nachos with a side dish?

Yes, these nachos pair wonderfully with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a simple salad for a fuller meal.

Conclusion

Chicken Nachos are a fun and flavorful dish that’s perfect for sharing. With tender, seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and fresh guacamole, every bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re serving them for a casual dinner or a party, these nachos are sure to be a crowd favorite! Enjoy!

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