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Flavorful Smoked Pulled Chicken Nachos Recipe Easy BBQ Twist Ideas

smoked pulled chicken nachos - featured image

These smoked pulled chicken nachos combine smoky chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and melted cheese on sturdy tortilla chips for a quick, crowd-pleasing snack or meal with a delicious BBQ twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (450g) shredded smoked pulled chicken breast or thigh meat
  • ½ cup (120ml) tangy BBQ sauce (e.g., Sweet Baby Ray’s)
  • 810 ounces (225-280g) sturdy corn tortilla chips
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup (120g) canned black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
  • 12 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
  • ¼ cup (40g) finely diced red onion
  • Small handful chopped fresh cilantro
  • ½ cup (120ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt for topping
  • Lime wedges for serving
  • Optional extras: sliced avocado or guacamole, diced tomatoes, pickled jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the shredded smoked chicken with ½ cup (120ml) BBQ sauce and stir until coated.
  3. Spread half of the tortilla chips evenly on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
  4. Sprinkle half the black beans, red onion, and jalapeños over the chips.
  5. Scatter half the smoked BBQ chicken on top.
  6. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the layers.
  7. Repeat layering with the remaining chips, beans, onions, jalapeños, chicken, and cheese.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.
  9. Watch closely after 10 minutes to avoid burning.
  10. Remove from oven and sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top.
  11. Add dollops of sour cream or Greek yogurt and squeeze lime wedges over as desired.
  12. Serve immediately while hot and melty.

Notes

Use thick-cut tortilla chips to prevent sogginess. Layer cheese between chip layers to help toppings stick. Watch oven time carefully to avoid burning. Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end if chips become soggy to crisp them up. For vegan or vegetarian versions, substitute smoked pulled chicken with smoked jackfruit or seasoned mushrooms and use dairy-free cheese. For gluten-free, ensure BBQ sauce and chips are certified gluten-free.

Nutrition

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