BBQ Chicken Sheet Pan Nachos
Sheet pan dinner recipes are a busy cook’s best friend, and these BBQ Chicken Sheet Pan Nachos are no exception. You can create a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal cleanup, perfect for weeknights or game days. Get ready for a flavor explosion with hardly any effort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly. You can also quickly poach chicken breasts.
- Tortilla Chips: Sturdy restaurant-style chips hold up best.
- BBQ Sauce: Your favorite brand or homemade will do.
- Cheese: A good melting cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend is ideal.
- Red Onion: White or yellow onion can be used in a pinch.
- Cilantro: Fresh parsley is a decent substitute if you’re not a cilantro fan.
- Jalapeño: Omit for less heat, or use pickled jalapeños for a milder kick.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 (13-ounce) bag sturdy tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend
- ½ small red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
For Garnish (Optional):
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, for serving
- Diced avocado or guacamole, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Tools Needed: Large baking sheet, mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine your shredded or diced cooked chicken with the BBQ sauce. Toss gently until the chicken is fully coated. This ensures every bite has that amazing BBQ flavor.
2. Arrange Your Nachos
Spread half of the tortilla chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Distribute half of the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over the chips. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese, red onion, and jalapeño slices (if using).
3. Layer for Maximum Flavor
Repeat the layering process with the remaining chips, chicken, cheese, red onion, and jalapeño. This layering technique ensures that all your ingredients are well distributed and you get cheesy chicken in every bite.
4. Bake Until Golden
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted and the chips are slightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
5. Garnish and Serve
Carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven. Garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately with sour cream and diced avocado or guacamole on the side. These sheet pan dinner recipes are best enjoyed hot!
Variation Ideas
- Add black beans or corn for extra fiber and flavor.
- Try different BBQ sauce flavors like a spicy chipotle or a sweet and smoky.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as smoked Gouda or pepper jack for an extra kick.
- Top with a drizzle of ranch dressing or a dollop of pickled red onions after baking.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover BBQ Chicken Sheet Pan Nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, to help crisp up the chips again. Microwaving may make the chips soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw chicken for this sheet pan dinner recipe?
No, you need to use pre-cooked chicken. Raw chicken will not cook through in time and would make your chips soggy.
What kind of tortilla chips are best for nachos?
You should use sturdy, restaurant-style tortilla chips. Thinner chips can get soggy too quickly under the toppings.
Can I prepare these nachos ahead of time?
You can prep the BBQ chicken mixture and chop your toppings ahead of time. However, assemble and bake the nachos just before serving to prevent the chips from becoming soft.
How do I make these nachos vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with a can of drained and rinsed black beans or grilled bell peppers and onions for a delicious vegetarian sheet pan dinner.
Can I make a single serving of these nachos?
Yes, you can easily scale this recipe down to make a single serving. Simply use a smaller oven-safe dish or toaster oven.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level depends on your BBQ sauce and whether you include the jalapeños. You can adjust the heat to your preference.
