Shredded Chicken Nacho Recipe

Nothing screams game day or a cozy movie night quite like a big platter of nachos. And when you top those crispy tortilla chips with succulent shredded chicken, melted cheese, and a medley of toppings, you create an irresistible dish that everyone will love. This Shredded Chicken Nacho Recipe is a crowd-pleaser, packed with flavor and texture, making it the perfect addition to any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Shredded Chicken Nacho Recipe is not just delicious; it’s incredibly versatile and simple to make. Here are a few reasons why you’ll be head over heels for this dish:

– **Flavor Explosion**: The combination of spices and creamy cheese creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.
– **Customizable**: You can easily adjust the toppings to suit your taste, making it perfect for everyone at your table.
– **Easy to Prepare**: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
– **Perfect for Sharing**: Whether it’s a party, game day, or family dinner, this recipe is ideal for sharing – and who doesn’t love nachos?

Gather These Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs, tenders, etc.)
• 3 tablespoons avocado oil or any neutral oil
• Juice of one lime (about 1 tablespoon)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 24 ounces evaporated milk (two 12 oz cans)
• 2 small jalapeños, finely diced (about 3 tablespoons)
• 1 ½ pounds white American cheese, freshly shredded
• 1 ½ pounds pepper jack cheese, freshly shredded
• Salt to taste
• 18 ounces tortilla chips (use a firm chip that can handle the weight)
• 15 ounces great northern beans (one can, drained, or black beans, pinto beans, etc.)
• 1 cup sour cream (for optional garnish)
• 1 small jalapeño, sliced (for optional garnish)
• 2 green onions, diced (or red onion)
• 2.25 ounces black olives, sliced (for optional garnish)
• Cilantro, fresh, chopped (for optional garnish)
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced or diced (for optional garnish)
• 1 small tomato, fresh, chopped (for optional garnish)

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large Pot – For cooking the chicken.
• Skillet – To sauté the ingredients and meld the flavors.
• Baking Sheet – To assemble and bake the nachos.
• Sharp Knife – For chopping your veggies.
• Cutting Board – To keep your prep area tidy.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accuracy with your spices and liquids.

Stepwise Method: Shredded Chicken Nacho Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, black pepper, chili powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and dried oregano. Make sure to rub the spices evenly over the chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken, and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooled, shred the chicken using two forks or your hands. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, add the evaporated milk and diced jalapeños to the shredded chicken. Gradually stir in the freshly shredded white American cheese and pepper jack cheese over low heat until fully melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Nachos

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a large baking sheet, spread out the firm tortilla chips in an even layer. Top with the shredded chicken and cheese mixture, ensuring each chip gets its fair share.

Step 6: Add Beans

Sprinkle the drained great northern beans over the top of the nachos, distributing them evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Once out of the oven, garnish with sour cream, sliced jalapeños, diced green onions, black olives, fresh cilantro, avocado, and chopped tomatoes. Serve immediately and watch them disappear!

Fresh Takes Through the Year

• Football Season: Add some spicy sausage for an extra kick.
• Summer BBQs: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp for a fresh twist.
• Fall Gatherings: Incorporate pumpkin spice into the chicken seasoning for a seasonal flair.
• Weeknight Dinners: Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.

Things That Go Wrong

• Overcooked Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken to avoid dryness. A meat thermometer can ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Too Much Cheese Sauce: If you find the cheese sauce too thick, remember that you can always add a bit of milk to loosen it up.
• Soggy Chips: Make sure to serve the nachos immediately after baking to avoid soggy chips.
• Uneven Toppings: Distribute the toppings evenly to ensure every chip is flavorful.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftovers, let the nachos cool to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They are best eaten fresh, but you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to revive their crunchiness. Avoid reheating in the microwave as this can make the chips soggy.

Quick Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to thaw it completely before seasoning and cooking.

What if I don’t have evaporated milk?

You can substitute evaporated milk with heavy cream or whole milk, but be aware that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables or plant-based protein like lentils or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more jalapeños, or incorporate a spicy salsa into the cheese sauce for an extra kick!

More from the Kitchen

• Cheesy Beef Quesadillas
• Vegetarian Black Bean Tacos
• Classic Guacamole
• Spicy Chicken Enchiladas

Make It Tonight

This Shredded Chicken Nacho Recipe is a delightful dish that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a cozy night in. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, you can whip it up in no time. So gather your loved ones, grab a plate, and dig into this cheesy, flavorful masterpiece. You won’t be disappointed!