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Chicken Nachos Recipe: The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Irresistible chicken nachos layered with crispy tortilla chips, tender shredded chicken, gooey melted cheese, and fresh toppings. Perfect for game nights, family dinners, or casual gatherings, this recipe combines savory, spicy, and creamy flavors in every bite.


Ingredients

For the Nachos:

  • Tortilla or plain corn chips – 250g (8 oz)
  • Shredded chicken (recipe below) – 2.5 cups
  • Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese – 250g (8 oz)
  • Toppings: Sour cream, cilantro, jalapeños (as desired)

For the Chicken:

  • Chicken thighs or breasts (skinless, boneless) – 700g (1.2 lb)
  • Olive oil – 1.5 tbsp
  • Tomato paste – 2 tbsp
  • Sugar – 2 tsp
  • Chicken broth – 1 cup, divided

Nachos Meat Seasoning:

  • Lime juice – 3 tbsp
  • Olive oil – 1 tbsp
  • Garlic cloves (minced) – 2
  • Garlic powder – 2 tsp
  • Onion powder – 2 tsp
  • Dried oregano – 2 tsp
  • Cumin powder – 3 tsp
  • Paprika – 3 tsp
  • Cayenne pepper (optional) – 1/2 tsp
  • Salt – 1/2 tsp
  • Black pepper – 1/2 tsp

For Quick Guacamole:

  • Avocados (medium) – 2
  • Cilantro (roughly chopped) – 3 tbsp
  • Lime juice – 2 tbsp
  • Salt and pepper – to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Mix the seasoning ingredients in a bowl and add 2 tbsp of chicken broth to form a paste.
  2. Coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning paste.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken for 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a dish.
  4. In the same skillet, add remaining broth, tomato paste, and sugar, mixing to form a smooth sauce.
  5. Shred the chicken using two forks and return it to the skillet. Toss to coat and simmer for 3 minutes.

Step 2: Make Quick Guacamole

  1. Mash avocados in a bowl until desired consistency.
  2. Mix in cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Nachos

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. On a baking tray, layer half the chips, chicken, and cheese. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
  3. Bake for 7 minutes until cheese melts and bubbles.

Step 4: Add Final Touches

  1. Garnish with sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños.
  2. Serve hot with a side of guacamole.

Notes

  • Use fresh tortilla chips for the best crunch.
  • Adjust spice levels with cayenne and jalapeños to suit your preference.
  • For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with black beans or roasted vegetables.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer/Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican