Buffalo Chicken Nachos are loaded with crispy chips, spicy buffalo chicken, and melted cheese. Perfect for game day or a fun snack!
Who doesn’t love a plate of nachos? I can’t resist the tasty combo of spicy and cheesy goodness. I like to add a dollop of sour cream on top—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: Choose sturdy tortilla chips to hold the toppings well, like restaurant-style. If you’re looking for a healthier option, baked tortilla chips work great too.
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for its flavor and convenience. You can also use cooked chicken breast, canned chicken, or even shredded tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic, but feel free to use any favorite brand. If you want less spice, combine it with some ranch dressing or use a milder sauce instead.
Cheese Blend: I love mixing cheddar and Monterey Jack for that perfect melt. If you prefer a different flavor, pepper jack cheese adds a nice kick, or use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
Jalapeños: They’re great for heat! If you want less spice, you can skip them or use sliced bell peppers instead. Pickled jalapeños are a nice option too for a tangy flavor.
How Do You Layer Nachos for the Best Experience?
The secret to great nachos lies in how you layer the ingredients. A solid base prevents sogginess while ensuring every chip is loaded with flavors. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a single layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet or platter.
- Evenly distribute half the chicken over the chips, then sprinkle half the cheese. This way, some chicken and cheese reach every chip.
- Add another layer of tortilla chips and repeat the process with the remaining chicken and cheese.
- This double-layer technique ensures every chip is coated and keeps the nachos crispy!
Enjoy crafting this delicious Buffalo Chicken Nachos dish. It’s perfect for gatherings, and everyone will love diving into a cheesy, spicy treat!
Buffalo Chicken Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large bag tortilla chips (about 10-12 ounces)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta cheese
- 2-3 jalapeños, sliced thinly (seeds removed for less heat if desired)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing (for drizzling or dipping)
- Optional: sour cream, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and another 10 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend around 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty addition to your game day spread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will make sure it’s hot and ready for your nachos.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, take your shredded cooked chicken and toss it with the buffalo wing sauce. Make sure everything is well coated to get that spicy taste all over the chicken.
3. Layer the Chips:
On a large oven-safe platter or baking sheet, lay out a layer of tortilla chips. You want them to be spread out evenly so that every chip gets some toppings!
4. Add Chicken and Cheese:
Evenly scatter half of the buffalo chicken over the chips. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top. This helps create a cheesy layer that melts beautifully.
5. Add More Chips:
To create a hearty nacho mountain, add another layer of tortilla chips. Then, top this layer with the rest of the buffalo chicken and cheese.
6. Bake the Nachos:
Place your baking sheet or platter in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is melted and bubbly—this is the moment of cheesy bliss!
7. Finish with Toppings:
Once the nachos are out of the oven, sprinkle crumbled blue cheese or feta cheese on top. Then, add the sliced jalapeños and chopped green onions. This adds freshness and flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Dollop or drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. You can also add some sour cream if you like. Dig in while they’re warm—enjoy your delicious Buffalo Chicken Nachos with friends and family!
These nachos are perfect for game days, movie nights, or anytime you want a tasty treat. Enjoy!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works great. Just shred it and mix it with the buffalo sauce before layering.
How Can I Make This Vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with a mix of black beans, corn, or even sautéed veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms. Toss them with buffalo sauce for that spicy flavor!
What Should I Do If the Chips Get Soggy?
To prevent sogginess, make sure to layer your ingredients properly. Avoid overloading the top layer with too much sauce and serve the nachos immediately after baking for the best crunch.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, just pop them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. Keep in mind, the chips may lose their crunch.
