These Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos are a fun and tasty treat! With layers of crunchy chips, juicy BBQ chicken, and melted cheese, they’re perfect for sharing (or not!).
Honestly, who doesn’t love a big cheesy platter? I find it hard to resist taking a few extra nachos. And the best part? They come together quickly—great for any game night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: You can find many brands, but I love using thicker chips for added crunch. If you want a healthier option, try baked tortilla chips or even sweet potato chips for a unique twist!
Cooked Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is fantastic for convenience, but leftovers work too! Try shredded turkey for a nice change. If you’re vegetarian, use black beans or sautéed mushrooms as a filling alternative.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite sauce, whether it’s tangy, sweet, or spicy. For a healthier take, make your own with ketchup, vinegar, and spices! If you’re avoiding sugar, look for sugar-free sauces.
Cheese: I like the combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack for the right meltiness. Gorgonzola or feta can add a different flavor if you’re feeling adventurous. Vegan cheese is a great substitute for a dairy-free version!
Bacon: Chopped bacon adds a savory crunch, but you can skip it for a vegetarian option. Try crispy chickpeas or vegan bacon as alternatives for added texture and flavor.
Sour Cream/Ranch Dressing: Feel free to use Greek yogurt for a healthier topping. Homemade ranch is easy to mix up with herbs and yogurt or mayo!
How Do I Ensure My Cheese Melts Perfectly?
To get that ooey-gooey melted cheese, follow these tips:
- Use a good cheese blend. Cheddar and Monterey Jack melt well together.
- Spread the cheese evenly over the toppings, ensuring coverage for every chip.
- Check the oven temperature. A hot oven helps cheese melt quickly without burning the chips.
- Watch closely while baking. The cheese is perfect when bubbly and starting to turn golden.
Let the nachos cool for a minute before serving, as the cheese will be very hot!
Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Nachos:
- 1 large bag tortilla chips (about 10-12 ounces)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream or ranch dressing, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-12 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be ready to enjoy your sheet pan nachos in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, line a large sheet pan with foil or parchment paper. This makes cleanup much easier!
2. Combine Chicken and BBQ Sauce:
In a bowl, toss the cooked shredded chicken with your chosen barbecue sauce. Make sure all the chicken is evenly coated so every bite is packed with flavor.
3. Layer the Tortilla Chips:
Spread a layer of tortilla chips across the bottom of your prepared sheet pan. Arrange them evenly to create a nice base for your toppings.
4. Add the BBQ Chicken:
Next, evenly distribute the BBQ chicken over the tortilla chips. Make sure to cover as much of the chips as you can!
5. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheese blend on top of the chicken and chips. The cheese is what makes these nachos ooey-gooey and delicious!
6. Top with Bacon and Onions:
Add the chopped cooked bacon on top of the cheese, and then sprinkle the diced red onions for an extra crunch and flavor.
7. Bake the Nachos:
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them—once the cheese is melted and bubbly, they’re ready!
8. Drizzle with Sour Cream:
Once out of the oven, drizzle sour cream or ranch dressing over the top. This adds a creamy finish that pairs well with the BBQ flavors.
9. Garnish the Nachos:
Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the nachos as a lovely garnish. It adds a pop of color and freshness!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your nachos immediately while they are warm and cheesy. Enjoy the delicious, smoky flavors with friends and family!
This recipe serves about 4-6 people as a hearty appetizer or snack. The combination of smoky BBQ chicken, crispy chips, melted cheese, savory bacon, and fresh toppings makes for a delicious crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Different Proteins for the Nachos?
Absolutely! You can substitute the shredded chicken with pulled pork, beef, turkey, or even a plant-based protein like jackfruit or tofu for a vegetarian option!
Can I Make These Nachos Spicy?
Yes, for a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños on top before baking or mix some chipotle sauce into your barbecue sauce for an extra smoky heat!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, consider using the oven to keep the chips from getting too soggy—about 5-10 minutes at 375°F should do the trick!
Can I Make These Nachos Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Simply layer and bake when you’re ready to serve for perfect, fresh nachos!
