Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos are a fantastic way to bring flavor and fun to any gathering. This dish combines crispy tortilla chips with tender BBQ chicken, gooey cheese, and zesty toppings, making it a hit for parties, game days, or family dinners. Not only is this recipe easy to whip up, but it also allows for delicious customization. Serve these nachos at your next event and watch them disappear!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have a crowd-pleasing dish ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of BBQ chicken and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize with your favorite toppings like jalapenos or cilantro for added flair.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves 8, making it ideal for gatherings and parties.
• Easy Cleanup: Using a sheet pan means less mess and more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, make sure you have the right tools on hand. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure perfect nachos every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Medium mixing bowl
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides ample space to layer all your ingredients without overcrowding.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Nachos

• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 3 cups BBQ sauce
• 1 large bag tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese

For the Toppings

• 1/3 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup mild pickled jalapenos
• 1/2 cup queso blanco
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)

How to Make Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the BBQ Chicken

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce. Mix until the chicken is well-coated.

Step 3: Layer the Nachos

On the prepared baking sheet:
1. Layer half of the tortilla chips evenly across the sheet.
2. Spread half of the BBQ chicken mixture over the chips.
3. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
4. Repeat these layers with the remaining chips, BBQ chicken, and cheese.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Top your nacho layers with chopped pickled jalapenos and red onion if desired for an extra kick.

Step 5: Bake Until Cheesy

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake for 11-13 minutes or until the cheese has melted beautifully.

Step 6: Drizzle with Queso

Remove from oven and drizzle generously with queso blanco and additional BBQ sauce. Return to oven for another 3-4 minutes to heat through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately while hot! Garnish with chopped cilantro and any other toppings you love. Enjoy this delightful Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos!

How to Serve Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos are a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or a cozy family dinner, serving these nachos creatively can enhance the experience.

Share with Friends

• Invite friends over and serve the nachos straight from the baking sheet for a casual vibe. This encourages sharing and interaction.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Top your nachos with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or avocado for added flavor and color. These ingredients will elevate your dish visually and taste-wise.

Pair with Dips

• Serve with sides of guacamole, sour cream, or salsa. These dips add creamy and zesty notes that complement the BBQ chicken perfectly.

Create a Nacho Bar

• Set up a nacho bar where guests can customize their servings. Offer toppings like jalapeños, olives, and different cheeses for everyone to choose from.

Serve as an Appetizer

• Cut the nachos into smaller portions to serve as an appetizer at parties. This makes them easy to eat while mingling.

Enjoy with Drinks

• Pair your nachos with refreshing beverages like soda, beer, or cocktails. The right drink can enhance the flavors of your BBQ chicken nachos.

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How to Perfect Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

To make the most of your Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos, consider these tips for perfecting every bite.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh tortilla chips and high-quality BBQ sauce for better flavor.
• Layer Strategically: Layer ingredients evenly to ensure each chip is loaded with toppings.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven to prevent burning; melted cheese should be bubbly but not overcooked.
• Customize Toppings: Don’t hesitate to mix in additional toppings like corn or black beans to suit your taste preferences.
• Allow Cooling Time: Let the nachos cool slightly before diving in. This prevents burns and allows flavors to settle.
• Serve Fresh: For best results, serve immediately after baking for crispy chips and melty cheese.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

Pairing side dishes with Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos can complete your meal beautifully. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of BBQ nachos.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and texture that complements the savory nachos.
3. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This colorful salad brings together corn, cheese, and spices for a tasty side dish.
4. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs perfectly with nachos, adding richness and flavor.
5. Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed black bean salad adds heartiness without overshadowing the main dish.
6. Fruit Salsa: A sweet fruit salsa can offer a surprising twist that balances out savory flavors nicely.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are another comforting side that can hold their own alongside the nachos.
8. Cheesy Garlic Bread: For those who love carbs, cheesy garlic bread is a delicious addition that everyone will enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos can be a breeze, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Preheating: Not preheating the oven can lead to unevenly melted cheese. Always preheat to ensure perfect results.
• Overloading on Toppings: Adding too many toppings can make your nachos soggy. Stick to the suggested amounts for the best texture.
• Using Old Chips: Stale tortilla chips won’t hold up well. Always use fresh chips for maximum crunchiness.
• Neglecting to Layer Properly: Layering is key to achieving even flavor distribution. Make sure to layer evenly for balanced bites.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

• It’s best to freeze the components separately (chicken, cheese, and chips).
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and label them with dates.
• Frozen components can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place nachos on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos that may help you:

How do I make Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos healthier?

You can replace regular tortilla chips with baked or whole-grain versions. Additionally, opt for low-sodium BBQ sauce and add more veggies.

What sides go well with Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos?

Consider serving them with guacamole, salsa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for unique flavors in your Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos.

How do I customize my Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos?

Add toppings like black beans, corn, or avocado to make it your own. The options are endless!

Final Thoughts

Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos are not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. They are perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy dinner. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings and enjoy this delightful comfort food!

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Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

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• Author: Cecilia
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for game days, family gatherings, or casual dinners. This recipe combines crispy tortilla chips, juicy BBQ chicken, and gooey cheese, all topped with zesty ingredients that elevate the flavor profile. Not only is it quick to prepare—taking just about 20 minutes—but it also allows for endless customization to suit your taste. Serve this delightful dish at your next event, and watch it disappear in no time!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix cooked chicken with BBQ sauce until well coated.
3. On the baking sheet, layer half the tortilla chips, half the BBQ chicken mixture, and half the cheese. Repeat these layers.
4. Add red onion and jalapenos on top if desired.
5. Bake for 11-13 minutes until cheese is melted.
6. Drizzle with queso blanco and additional BBQ sauce; return to the oven for another 3-4 minutes.
7. Serve hot with optional toppings like cilantro.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize toppings based on personal preference; consider adding black beans or corn for extra texture. For a healthier option, use baked tortilla chips and low-sodium BBQ sauce.