Loaded Chicken Nachos Recipe

Introduction

Loaded Chicken Nachos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, game days, or even as a delicious and indulgent meal. With layers of crispy tortilla chips topped with seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and an array of fresh, flavorful toppings, these nachos are a satisfying treat that brings together a variety of textures and flavors in every bite. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or enjoying them as the main dish, these nachos are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves bold, cheesy, and savory comfort food.

The beauty of loaded chicken nachos is their versatility. You can customize them to suit your taste by adding a range of toppings, from fresh veggies to spicy jalapeños, or even a dollop of sour cream. Whether you prefer your nachos mild or packed with heat, this recipe allows you to get creative with what you add to your dish. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of making these irresistible nachos, offer helpful tips for perfecting your nacho game, and provide suggestions for fun variations that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love Loaded Chicken Nachos

• Perfect for Sharing: Loaded Chicken Nachos are the ideal dish for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, watching the big game, or enjoying a movie night with friends, these nachos are great for passing around and digging in together.
• Endless Customization: One of the best things about loaded nachos is how easily you can make them your own. Choose from a variety of toppings—like guacamole, sour cream, salsa, and hot sauce—to cater to everyone’s preferences.
• Hearty and Filling: With seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and a base of crunchy tortilla chips, these nachos are hearty enough to be served as a meal. They’re perfect for those times when you want something satisfying and filling.
• Full of Flavor: From the savory chicken to the rich cheese and zesty toppings, loaded chicken nachos pack a punch when it comes to flavor. Every bite is a delightful mix of savory, spicy, creamy, and crunchy.
• Easy to Make: Despite their impressive appearance, loaded chicken nachos are incredibly easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can make a big batch of nachos in no time, without any fuss.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30-40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings (depending on portion size)
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-500 calories per serving, depending on toppings and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-500 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 3-5g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Loaded Chicken Nachos:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs)
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 8 oz tortilla chips (choose your favorite brand or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra gooeyness)
• 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup sliced red onions
• 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sour cream (for serving)
• Guacamole (for serving)
• Salsa (for serving)
• Hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken. If you’re using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut them into small, bite-sized cubes for easier cooking and even distribution on the nachos.

In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken cubes and cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through.

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken and add a tablespoon of lime juice. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning. Let the chicken cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the seasoning to combine with the chicken and form a flavorful coating. Once done, remove from heat and set the chicken aside.

2. Preheat the Oven

While the chicken is cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for melting the cheese and crisping up the tortilla chips without burning them.

3. Prepare the Nacho Base

On a large baking sheet or oven-safe dish, spread out the tortilla chips in an even layer. You want to make sure the chips are spread evenly so that every bite of nachos has a bit of everything.

If you’re using homemade tortilla chips, this is the time to prepare them by cutting corn tortillas into triangles, brushing them lightly with oil, and baking them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until crispy.

4. Layer the Nachos

Once the tortilla chips are in place, start layering the ingredients. Begin by evenly distributing the cooked chicken over the chips. Then, sprinkle the black beans and corn evenly over the chicken, followed by the diced tomatoes, red onions, and sliced jalapeños (if using).

Next, generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese over the top. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella helps create a cheesy, gooey texture that makes nachos so irresistible.

5. Bake the Nachos

Place the loaded nachos into the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the edges of the chips are slightly golden and crispy.

Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to make sure the chips don’t burn, and the cheese doesn’t overcook. If you want your nachos to have extra crispy edges, leave them in the oven for an additional 1-2 minutes.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once your nachos are out of the oven, immediately garnish them with fresh cilantro. You can also add extra toppings such as a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or a drizzle of hot sauce to take the nachos to the next level.

Serve immediately and enjoy these delicious, loaded chicken nachos while they’re still warm and gooey.

Tips for Perfect Loaded Chicken Nachos

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh vegetables and high-quality tortilla chips. The freshness of the ingredients makes a big difference in the overall taste of the nachos.
• Don’t Overload with Toppings: While it’s tempting to pile on as many toppings as possible, too many can make the nachos soggy. Stick to a few well-balanced toppings to ensure the nachos maintain their crispy texture.
• Customize the Heat: If you like your nachos spicy, don’t hesitate to load up on sliced jalapeños or drizzle the nachos with your favorite hot sauce before serving.
• Layer the Ingredients: For even distribution of toppings, layer your nachos with ingredients like cheese and chicken to ensure every chip is covered. This way, every bite has a perfect balance of flavor.
• Use Shredded Cheese: Shredded cheese melts more evenly than sliced cheese, helping to create that perfect, gooey consistency.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the toppings and chicken in advance to save time when it’s time to bake the nachos. Simply store them in separate containers in the refrigerator and assemble the nachos when you’re ready to bake.

Variations of Loaded Chicken Nachos

• Buffalo Chicken Nachos: Add a spicy twist to your nachos by tossing the cooked chicken in buffalo sauce before layering it onto the chips. This adds a zesty, tangy heat that pairs perfectly with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
• BBQ Chicken Nachos: Swap the taco seasoning for BBQ sauce, and use grilled or shredded chicken. Top the nachos with a tangy BBQ sauce drizzle and serve with a side of coleslaw for extra crunch.
• Vegetarian Nachos: For a vegetarian version of these nachos, skip the chicken and load them up with extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or even roasted sweet potatoes. You can also add a layer of refried beans for additional flavor.
• Cheesy Chicken Nachos with Bacon: Add crispy bacon crumbles on top of your loaded chicken nachos for an extra layer of smokiness and crunch. The bacon pairs wonderfully with the seasoned chicken and melty cheese.
• Nacho Supreme: For an even more loaded nacho experience, top your nachos with additional toppings like sliced olives, green onions, and a sprinkle of cilantro. You can also add a drizzle of sour cream and guacamole for extra creaminess.

Storage and Shelf Life

Loaded chicken nachos are best enjoyed fresh and hot, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Keep in mind that the tortilla chips may lose their crunch when stored, but the flavors will still be delicious.

To reheat the nachos, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can make the chips soggy.

If you’re planning to make nachos ahead of time, you can prepare the toppings and chicken in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, simply assemble the nachos and bake them.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Loaded Chicken Nachos

While loaded chicken nachos are a meal on their own, you can elevate the experience with a few tasty side dishes and drinks:

• Mexican Street Corn: Serve your nachos with Mexican street corn (Elote) for a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy side that complements the nachos beautifully.
• Guacamole and Chips: If you want even more dip options, serve your loaded nachos with a side of homemade guacamole and tortilla chips.
• Cilantro-Lime Rice: This flavorful rice adds a refreshing side dish that complements the bold flavors of the nachos.
• Margaritas or Beer: Pair your nachos with a refreshing margarita or a cold beer. A classic lime margarita or a crisp lager balances out the richness of the nachos perfectly.

Print

Conclusion

Loaded Chicken Nachos are the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. With a combination of crispy chips, seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and flavorful toppings, these nachos are sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a delicious meal, these nachos are the perfect choice for a crowd-pleasing dish.

With a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, you can easily customize these nachos to suit your tastes and make them your own. From classic nachos to more adventurous variations like buffalo chicken or BBQ nachos, there’s a version for everyone. So go ahead, indulge in this tasty, cheesy, and satisfying treat, and enjoy every delicious bite!