Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos are the perfect go-to dish for gatherings, game nights, or a cozy family dinner. This delicious recipe combines crispy tortilla chips with juicy BBQ chicken, plenty of melted cheese, and zesty toppings, creating a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love. Quick to prepare and easy to share, these nachos are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have a delightful dish ready for any occasion.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of BBQ chicken and gooey cheese offers a rich flavor that satisfies every palate.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or casual get-togethers, this recipe serves up to 8 people easily.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado or sour cream to make it uniquely yours.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks on one sheet pan, making it ideal for busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos is simple with the right tools. Gather your kitchen essentials to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Medium mixing bowl
• Spatula or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A large baking sheet allows you to layer all ingredients evenly for optimal baking.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: These prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
• Medium mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Spatula or spoon: Useful for spreading out the nacho layers evenly on the baking sheet.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 3 cups BBQ sauce

For the Nachos

• 1 large bag tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
• 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: Mix Chicken and BBQ Sauce

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cooked shredded chicken and your preferred BBQ sauce until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Layer the Nachos

On the prepared baking sheet, layer half of the tortilla chips evenly. Then add half of the BBQ chicken mixture followed by half of the shredded cheese. Repeat this process with the remaining chips, chicken, and cheese.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Sprinkle chopped pickled jalapenos and red onion on top as desired for an extra kick.

Step 5: Bake Until Cheese Melts

Place your nachos in the preheated oven. Bake for about 11-13 minutes or until you see that the cheese has melted beautifully.

Step 6: Drizzle with Queso and Sauce

Carefully remove the nachos from the oven. Drizzle warm queso blanco and extra BBQ sauce over the top. Return them to bake for another 3-4 minutes.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve your Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos hot from the oven! Top with chopped cilantro if desired and enjoy sharing this delightful dish!

How to Serve Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos are a crowd-pleaser perfect for any gathering. They can be customized with various toppings and sides to enhance the experience.

With Fresh Guacamole

• Fresh guacamole adds a creamy texture that balances the BBQ flavors perfectly.

With Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the spicy jalapeños and BBQ sauce.

With Salsa

• Serve with your favorite salsa for an added burst of flavor and freshness.

With Extra BBQ Sauce

• Drizzle more BBQ sauce on top for those who love an extra kick of smoky sweetness.

With Pickled Red Onions

• Pickled red onions add a tangy crunch that elevates the overall taste profile.

How to Perfect Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

To make the best Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos, follow these tips for maximum flavor and enjoyment.

• Use Quality Tortilla Chips: Choose sturdy tortilla chips that can hold up against toppings without becoming soggy.

• Mix Chicken Thoroughly with BBQ Sauce: Ensure the chicken is well-coated with BBQ sauce for even flavor distribution throughout the nachos.

• Layer Ingredients Properly: Alternate layers of chips, chicken, and cheese for balanced bites in every serving.

• Watch Cheese Melting Time: Keep an eye on the nachos while baking; remove them as soon as the cheese is melted to avoid overcooking.

• Add Fresh Toppings Just Before Serving: To maintain freshness, add toppings like cilantro or jalapeños right before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

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

1. Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad adds sweetness and crunch, making it a perfect complement.

2. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw offers a cool, crunchy contrast that pairs well with the warm nachos.

3. Black Bean Salad: A hearty black bean salad adds protein and fiber, rounding out your meal nicely.

4. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, and spices is a delicious addition.

5. Vegetable Crudité Platter: Fresh veggies served with dip provide a healthy balance to the rich nachos.

6. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad brings a sweet touch to your plate and refreshes the palate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to preheat to ensure the cheese melts perfectly.
• Overloading on Toppings: Adding too many toppings can make nachos soggy. Stick to a balanced amount for the best texture.
• Using Low-Quality Chips: Cheap tortilla chips may not hold up well under toppings. Invest in sturdy chips for better results.
• Neglecting Cheese Distribution: Clumping cheese in one area can cause uneven melting. Spread it evenly across the nachos for a consistent cheesy experience.
• Forgetting to Customize: Following the recipe strictly can limit your creativity. Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust flavors!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

• Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Container: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for best results.

Reheating Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot, but be careful not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different meats in Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos?

Yes, you can substitute shredded beef or turkey for the chicken, depending on your preference.

What type of cheese is best for these nachos?

Monterey Jack and cheddar are both great options. Feel free to mix them for added flavor!

How do I make my own BBQ sauce?

You can combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and spices like garlic powder and onion powder for a quick homemade version.

Can I prepare Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything except the cheese and bake it right before serving.

Are there any vegetarian options for these nachos?

Yes! You can replace the chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Final Thoughts

Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos are not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various toppings and ingredients based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering; it’s sure to be a hit!