These Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos are perfect for any gathering! Crispy tortilla chips are topped with BBQ chicken, gooey cheese, and all your favorite fixings.
They’re so fun and easy to make, you might just have to whip them up every weekend! I love adding extra jalapeños for a little kick. Who’s with me? 😄
It’s a breezy recipe—just layer everything on a sheet pan, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for game nights or cozy movie marathons at home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: I recommend using a sturdy brand that can hold up to the toppings. If you’re looking for a healthier option, baked tortilla chips or even veggie chips can work well.
Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my favorite for convenience and flavor. If you want a vegetarian version, black beans or jackfruit can be great substitutes!
BBQ Sauce: Pick a barbecue sauce that matches your taste—smoky, sweet, or spicy. If you’re out, you can make a quick homemade sauce with ketchup, vinegar, and spices.
Cheese: I love the mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that perfect melty combo. Feel free to swap in Pepper Jack for a spicier touch or go dairy-free with a vegan cheese.
Bacon: If you’re not eating pork, turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon works too. You can also skip it altogether for a lighter nacho option.
How Do I Get My Nachos Evenly Topped?
Creating evenly topped nachos is key to tasty bites! Start by layering your chips in a single, even layer across the sheet pan. This helps ensure that every chip gets love. Then, when adding your toppings:
- Sprinkle the BBQ chicken evenly across the chips instead of piling it all in one spot.
- Distribute the cheese generously to cover every inch without overcrowding.
- Crumbled bacon and any veggies should also be spread evenly to enhance every bite with flavor.
By following this layering method, you’ll have a delicious mix of flavors in each bite and avoid soggy chips!
Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large bag (about 10-12 oz) tortilla chips
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for extra heat
- Sour cream, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 10-12 minutes to bake in the oven. Just layer all the delicious toppings and bake until bubbly, making it a quick and easy meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you put in your nachos.
2. Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
In a medium bowl, take your shredded chicken and mix it with ¾ cup of BBQ sauce. Make sure it’s well-coated and flavorful!
3. Lay Out the Chips:
Get a large, rimmed sheet pan and spread the tortilla chips out in a single, even layer. This ensures every chip gets topped perfectly.
4. Add the BBQ Chicken:
Now, distribute the BBQ chicken evenly over the tortilla chips. This way, each bite will have that tasty BBQ flavor.
5. Cheese Time:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses generously over the chicken and chips. You want it cheesy and delicious!
6. Top with Bacon:
Scatter the crumbled cooked bacon all over the top. Bacon makes everything better, right?
7. Bake!
Slide the sheet pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
8. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once out of the oven, immediately sprinkle the diced red onions and chopped cilantro on top for freshness.
9. BBQ Drizzle:
Feel free to drizzle any remaining BBQ sauce over the nachos for extra flavor.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your nachos hot with a side of sour cream and sliced jalapeños for those who like a bit of heat. Dive in and enjoy this crowd-pleaser!
These Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos are perfect for sharing and will definitely be a hit at your next get-together! Enjoy!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds fantastic flavor. Just shred the chicken and toss it with BBQ sauce as directed.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
You can easily make these nachos vegetarian by substituting the chicken with black beans or refried beans. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Nachos?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the chips may get soggy, so it’s best to reheat in the oven for a fresh crispy texture.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Definitely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Pepper Jack adds a nice kick, while gouda or feta could bring a unique twist to the flavor profile. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well!
