How to Create Smoky BBQ Pulled Chicken Nachos
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser or just a comforting snack to enjoy on your own, smoky BBQ pulled chicken nachos are the answer! This dish combines tender, smoky chicken, gooey cheese, crunchy tortilla chips, and a medley of toppings for a flavor explosion in every bite.
Even if you’re not a pro chef, don’t worry — making BBQ pulled chicken nachos is super simple, fun, and doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. Let’s get started with this delicious recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this batch of nachos:
For the BBQ pulled chicken:
– 2 large chicken breasts (or thighs)
– 1 cup of BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand; smoky BBQ is ideal)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra flavor)
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
For assembling the nachos:
– Tortilla chips (use sturdy chips that can hold the toppings)
– 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend)
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 small red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for spice)
– 1 cup fresh tomato salsa (store-bought or homemade)
– ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pulled Chicken
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle the chicken breasts with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning evenly across each piece.
- Cook the chicken: You can cook the chicken in a slow cooker, stovetop, or instant pot — whichever works best for you! Here are some easy methods:
- Slow Cooker: Add the chicken and BBQ sauce to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is soft and tender.
- Stovetop: Place the seasoned chicken in a skillet and add the BBQ sauce. Cook on medium heat for 20-25 minutes, covered, until fully cooked and tender.
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Instant Pot: Add the chicken and BBQ sauce to the Instant Pot, set to pressure cook for 12 minutes, and let it naturally release.
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Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, shred it using two forks. Mix the shredded chicken into the sauce so it’s completely coated and flavorful.
Step 2: Assemble the Nachos
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Layer the chips and toppings: Spread an even layer of tortilla chips on the baking sheet. Top the chips with half the shredded BBQ chicken, black beans, and shredded cheese. Add another layer of chips, chicken, beans, and cheese to create a double-layered nacho stack.
- Add extras: Sprinkle diced red onion and jalapeño slices on top for added texture and flavor. Skip the jalapeño if you prefer mild nachos.
Step 3: Bake the Nachos
- Bake until melty: Place the baking sheet in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Remove from oven: Let the nachos cool slightly, but not too long — you want the cheese to stay gooey!
Step 4: Add Fresh Toppings
Once the nachos are out of the oven, it’s time to finish with fresh toppings for added flavor and color:
– Tomato Salsa: Spoon fresh salsa over the nachos.
– Sour Cream: Drizzle or dollop sour cream across the nachos.
– Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro for a pop of flavor.
Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Avocado chunks, guacamole, or pickled onions would also be great.
Tips for Perfect Smoky BBQ Pulled Chicken Nachos
- Use sturdy chips: Make sure to use thick tortilla chips that won’t get soggy under the toppings.
- Don’t skimp on cheese: Cheese helps hold everything together. Use enough to cover all the layers so every bite is cheesy.
- Customize to your taste: Adjust the spice level by adding (or skipping) jalapeños or using spicy BBQ sauce.
- Serve immediately: Nachos are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven so they stay crispy and flavorful.
Enjoy Your BBQ Pulled Chicken Nachos!
Smoky BBQ pulled chicken nachos are perfect for game day, movie night, or just a quick dinner. The combination of warm, cheesy toppings with smoky chicken and crunchy chips makes this dish irresistible.
Serve them straight from the baking sheet or transfer to a platter. Don’t forget to have napkins handy — these messy, cheesy nachos are worth every bite!
Give this recipe a try, and soon, you’ll be making these nachos for every occasion. Whether you’re feeding friends and family or treating yourself, smoky BBQ pulled chicken nachos are always a winner. Happy snacking!
