Pulled Chicken Nachos Jalapeños (Printable)
A vibrant platter of crispy chips with smoky chicken, melted cheese, jalapeños, and fresh garnishes.
# What You Need:
→ Pulled Chicken
01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
02 - 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (or chipotle sauce)
03 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
04 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/4 teaspoon cumin
06 - Salt and pepper, to taste
→ Nachos Base
07 - 7 oz sturdy tortilla chips
→ Toppings
08 - 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
09 - 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
10 - 1/2 cup pickled jalapeño slices
11 - 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
12 - 1 medium tomato, diced
13 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
14 - 1 avocado, diced (optional)
15 - 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
16 - 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
# Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Combine shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until chicken is evenly coated.
03 - Spread tortilla chips evenly across the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
04 - Distribute seasoned pulled chicken over the chips. Sprinkle cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly across the surface.
05 - Top with jalapeño slices and thinly sliced red onion.
06 - Bake for 10-12 minutes until cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
07 - Remove from oven. Top with diced tomato, cilantro, and avocado if desired. Serve immediately with sour cream and lime wedges.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The way smoky chicken plays against sharp cheddar creates this incredible depth that keeps everyone reaching for just one more bite
- Everything comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like you spent all day planning it
02 -
- The first time I made these, I piled everything too high and ended up with cold centers and burnt edges, so spread layers evenly instead
- Letting the baked nachos rest for just two minutes helps the cheese set slightly, making each scoop cleaner
03 -
- A rotisserie chicken saves so much time, but leftover grilled or roasted chicken works just as well
- If making for a crowd, consider setting up a nacho bar with the warm base and bowls of fresh toppings