Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone together, let me introduce you to my Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something quick, fun, and absolutely delicious. The combination of crispy tortilla chips topped with juicy BBQ chicken, melted cheese, and zesty jalapenos makes for a dish that’s hard to resist. Trust me, once you whip this up, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your home!

These nachos are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly customizable. You can serve them as an appetizer at your next party or enjoy them as a cozy dinner with the family. The best part? They come together in just 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves nachos! This dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
• Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s game night or a casual get-together, this recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd.
• Customizable toppings: You can add your favorite toppings to make these nachos uniquely yours!
• Comfort food at its best: The gooey cheese and flavorful BBQ chicken will warm your heart and soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos, you’ll only need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Gather these items, and you’re on your way to nacho heaven!

For the Nachos

• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 3 cups BBQ sauce
• 1 large bag tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup mild pickled jalapenos
• 1/2 cup queso blanco
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)

Variations

One of the beauties of Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos is their flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or what flavors you’re craving.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even black beans for a vegetarian option!
• Change the cheese: Try pepper jack for an extra kick or go dairy-free with a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Add more veggies: Load on fresh tomatoes, corn, or bell peppers for added crunch and color.
• Spicy twist: Add sliced fresh jalapenos or drizzle some hot sauce on top for those who like it hot!

How to Make Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F. Preheating ensures that our nachos will cook evenly and that the cheese melts perfectly.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken and BBQ Sauce

In a medium-sized bowl, combine your cooked shredded chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce. Mix well until all the chicken is coated. This step infuses every bite with delicious flavor!

Step 3: Layer Your Ingredients

On a lined baking sheet, create layers starting with half of the tortilla chips. Then add half of the BBQ chicken mixture followed by half of the shredded cheese. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used up. Layering helps distribute flavors throughout the nachos.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Sprinkle chopped pickled jalapenos and red onion over the top if you’re using them. These toppings add fantastic texture and zing that balances out the richness of the cheese.

Step 5: Bake Until Cheesy

Place your loaded baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 11-13 minutes or until the cheese melts beautifully. Watching that cheesy goodness bubble is one of my favorite parts!

Step 6: Drizzle with Queso Blanco

Once out of the oven, give your nachos a generous drizzle of queso blanco and extra BBQ sauce if you’d like. Pop them back in for another 3-4 minutes to let it all meld together.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve immediately with any additional toppings on the side so everyone can customize their plate. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

Creating the perfect nachos can be a fun and rewarding experience! With these tips, you’ll ensure your Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos come out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh tortilla chips: Opt for freshly made or high-quality tortilla chips to prevent sogginess. They provide the best texture and flavor that complements the toppings beautifully.
• Customize your BBQ sauce: Experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite flavor profile. Sweet, tangy, or smoky sauces can change the entire dish’s character and make it uniquely yours.
• Layer wisely: Layering your ingredients is key. By alternating chips, chicken, and cheese, each bite will have an even distribution of flavors and textures, ensuring no one gets left out!
• Don’t skip the drizzle: A drizzle of queso blanco and extra BBQ sauce right before serving adds a delicious finishing touch. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.
• Serve immediately: Nachos are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while everything is warm and gooey. Prepare all your toppings in advance so you can serve them quickly after baking.

How to Serve Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

When it comes to serving your Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos, presentation is key! Here are some fun ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Add a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top for a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the melted cheese.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a cool contrast to the warm nachos and adds creaminess.
• Fresh lime wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick that brightens up every bite.

Side Dishes

• Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip offers a rich texture that pairs perfectly with nachos. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Black bean salad: A refreshing black bean salad brings in protein and fiber while adding vibrant colors to your spread. Toss together black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and avocado for a delicious side.
• Vegetable sticks: Crunchy vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers provide a healthy contrast to the rich flavors of nachos. Serve them with ranch dressing or hummus for dipping.
• Fruit salsa: A fruity salsa made from diced mangoes or pineapples adds a sweet and tangy element that can complement the smoky flavors of BBQ chicken nicely.

With these serving suggestions, your Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos will not only taste amazing but also look fabulous at your next gathering! Enjoy making this delightful dish that’s sure to be a hit.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos recipe is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to create a delicious snack or meal that can be enjoyed later. Whether you’re planning to indulge in these nachos during game night or as a quick dinner option, knowing how to store and reheat them will come in handy.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the nachos to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover nachos in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days for best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• It’s best to freeze the chicken separately from the nachos.
• Freeze cooked BBQ chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• You can also freeze individual portions of assembled nachos without toppings, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350F (175C).
• Spread the leftover nachos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through and the cheese has melted again.
• If reheating frozen nachos, allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge before following the above steps.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

Can I make Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos without meat?

Yes! You can easily substitute the chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option that’s just as delicious.

What toppings work well with Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos?

Feel free to customize your nachos with toppings like avocado slices, diced tomatoes, or corn. The options are endless!

How do I keep my tortilla chips from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, layer your ingredients wisely—avoid overloading them with sauce and serve immediately after baking.

Can I use different types of cheese for my nachos?

Absolutely! Monterey Jack or cheddar are great choices, but you can also experiment with pepper jack for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos as I am! This recipe not only brings everyone together but also allows you to get creative with toppings. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a lively gathering with friends, these nachos are sure to impress. Enjoy every cheesy bite and don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turned out!