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A wide shot of a freshly baked chicken nachos dish with melted cheese and garnishes
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Chicken Nachos Recipe

Get the best chicken nachos recipe for your next game day gathering or party. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite toppings.
Course Snack
Cuisine Mexican
Keyword chicken nachos recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 540kcal
Author C. Sophie

Equipment

  • Large rimmed baking sheet
  • Large Skillet
  • Air fryer (optional)

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts cooked and shredded

Spices

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

Toppings

  • 12 oz sturdy corn tortilla chips
  • 1.5 cups sharp Cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 1.5 cups Monterey Jack cheese freshly grated
  • 1/2 cup Roma tomatoes diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and the shredded chicken.
  • Add the tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt to the skillet. Stir constantly for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce has reduced and the chicken is thoroughly coated and juicy.
  • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.
  • Arrange half of the corn tortilla chips in an even layer across the prepared baking sheet.
  • Distribute half of the seasoned chicken and half of both types of freshly grated cheese over the first layer of chips.
  • Repeat the process by adding the remaining chips, followed by the remaining chicken and the rest of the cheese. This double-layer method ensures every chip is covered.
  • Bake in the center rack of the oven for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
  • Remove from the oven and immediately garnish with the diced tomatoes, red onion, pickled jalapeños, and fresh cilantro.

Notes

Nutritional information:
  • Calories: 540
  • Protein: 31g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fat: 31g
  • Saturated fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 820mg
  • Potassium: 320mg
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 3g
Tip: Let cool completely before serving.