Buffalo Chicken Nachos are a fun and zesty dish that everyone loves. With crispy chips, spicy shredded chicken, and gooey cheese on top, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Grab a big plate because sharing is overrated when nachos are this good! I love adding extra toppings like jalapeños or sour cream for that perfect kick. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: The base of our nachos! I recommend using sturdy, thick chips so they won’t get soggy. If you want a healthier option, baked chips or even veggies like sliced bell peppers can work well.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is perfect for quick prep. If you prefer, use shredded turkey for a lighter twist, or even canned chicken for convenience. Plant-based chicken is also an option for a vegetarian dish.
Buffalo Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice, but any buffalo sauce you enjoy will do. For milder flavor, mix it with some barbecue sauce. If you like it super spicy, add extra hot sauce.
Cheese: Cheddar is a crowd-pleaser, but feel free to mix it up! Pepper jack adds some spice, while a blend of mozzarella will give a gooey texture. Dairy-free cheese options are available if you’re avoiding dairy.
Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled jalapeños work great. If you’re not a fan of spice, you can skip these or substitute with bell peppers for crunch without the heat.
How Do I Layer My Nachos for the Best Flavor?
Proper layering is key for delicious nachos. Here’s how to make sure every chip is flavorful:
- Start with half of the tortilla chips on the bottom; this creates a sturdy base.
- Layer on the buffalo chicken evenly, so every bite has that spicy flavor.
- Sprinkle half the cheese before adding the next layer of chips. Repeat with the rest of the chicken and cheese.
- Finish off with jalapeños on top so they get warm, but not overcooked.
This method ensures each chip gets ample toppings and prevents sogginess, making for the perfect nacho experience!
Buffalo Chicken Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups tortilla chips
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- ½ cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar-jack blend)
- ½ cup sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- ¼ cup sliced green onions (scallions)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for drizzling
- Optional: diced tomatoes or chopped celery for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of around 20-25 minutes. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot for your cheesy nachos!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a bowl, take your shredded cooked chicken and mix it with the buffalo sauce until the chicken is well coated in that spicy goodness. You can adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to make it as spicy as you like!
3. Lay Down the Chips:
Grab an oven-safe platter or a baking sheet and arrange half of the tortilla chips on the bottom. Make sure they’re spread out nicely.
4. Layer the Chicken and Cheese:
Spread half of the buffalo chicken mixture evenly over the chips, and then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top. This layer will get melty and delicious!
5. Add More Chips & Repeat:
Add another layer with the remaining tortilla chips, then top with the rest of the buffalo chicken and finish with the remaining cheese. Yum!
6. Top with Jalapeños:
Scatter those sliced jalapeños evenly over the top for a nice kick!
7. Bake:
Now, pop your nachos in the oven and bake them for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn!
8. Drizzle with Dressing:
Once out of the oven, drizzle your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing all over the nachos for that perfect finishing touch.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the sliced green onions on top and, if you like, add some diced tomatoes or chopped celery as a garnish. Now it’s time to dig in!
10. Enjoy!
Serve your Buffalo Chicken Nachos immediately while they’re hot and cheesy. Everyone will love this delicious dish!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the buffalo sauce for an easy and quick preparation.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, consider using a spicier buffalo sauce or adding more sliced jalapeños on top. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes over the cheese before baking for an extra punch!
What Should I Do with Leftover Nachos?
Leftover nachos can be tricky, as chips may get soggy. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge and try to reheat them on a baking sheet in the oven to help keep the chips crisp. Ideally, nachos are best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables, black beans, or a meat alternative. You can also use plant-based buffalo sauce for a vegetarian-friendly version.