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Tangy BBQ Chicken Nachos with Caramelized Onions and Jalapenos

These tangy BBQ chicken nachos are loaded with flavor and fun to eat. Crispy tortilla chips are piled high with juicy chicken, melted cheese, sweet caramelized onions, spicy pickled jalapenos, cool sour cream and more. A game day favorite the whole family will devour!

Ingredients

For the nachos:

  • Tortilla chips
  • Shredded rotisserie or cooked chicken
  • Shredded cheese like cheddar or Mexican blend
  • Caramelized onions
  • Pickled jalapeno slices

For the toppings:

  • BBQ sauce
  • Sour cream
  • Pico de gallo
  • Guacamole
  • Cilantro

Shredding the Chicken

Start by shredding or chopping cooked chicken into small pieces. Rotisserie chicken or left over chicken works great.

You want about 2-3 cups of shredded chicken for these nachos. Set aside.

Chicken Tips

  • Use fully cooked chicken for food safety.
  • Shred with forks or dice into small pieces.
  • Aim for around 2-3 cups shredded chicken.
  • Leftover chicken is perfect for nachos!

Caramelizing the Onions

Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 15-20 minutes until deeply golden brown and caramelized, stirring occasionally.

Add a pinch of salt and sugar to help speed up caramelization.

Onion Tips

  • Use thinly sliced white, yellow or red onions.
  • Cook low and slow to properly caramelize onions.
  • Add a pinch of salt and sugar to help.
  • Stir frequently while cooking to prevent burning.

Assembly and Baking

To assemble the nachos, spread half the tortilla chips out on a baking sheet. Top with half each of the chicken, cheese, onions and jalapenos.

Repeat layers with remaining ingredients. Bake at 400°F for 8-10 minutes until hot and cheese is melted.

Assembly and Baking Tips

  • Layer ingredients evenly for maximum coverage.
  • Bake at 400°F just until cheese melts.
  • Avoid over baking or chips will get soggy.
  • Cut a few moments rest before topping.

Topping the Nachos

Remove nachos from oven and let sit 1-2 minutes before topping.

Drizzle with BBQ sauce then top with desired amounts of sour cream, pico de gallo, guacamole and cilantro.

Topping Suggestions

  • BBQ sauce for extra tangy flavor.
  • Sour cream for cool contrast.
  • Pico and guacamole for freshness.
  • Cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Serving

Serve BBQ chicken nachos immediately while hot and crispy. Provide extra BBQ sauce for drizzling over the top as desired.

Great served with ice cold beer or margaritas!

Serving Suggestions

  • Margaritas or ice cold beer
  • Tortilla chips and salsa
  • Queso dip
  • Southwestern salad

Storing Leftovers

To reheat leftover nachos, place single layers on a baking sheet and warm in a 400°F oven until hot and crispy, 2-3 minutes.

Toppings like guacamole should be stored separately and added just before serving.

Recipe Tips

Try these easy additions and substitutions:

  • Use pulled pork or ground beef instead of chicken.
  • Add sautéed peppers and onions.
  • Use pepperjack cheese for extra kick.
  • Top with sliced avocado or black olives.
  • Swap in diced mango or pineapple for pico de gallo.

Game Day Perfection

With its savory chicken, melted cheese, tangy BBQ drizzle and tons of topping options, this recipe is perfect for game day hangouts, parties or fun family dinners. Dig right into these flavor-packed nachos!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chips should I use?

Standard corn tortilla chips work great. Sturdier chips hold up better once topped.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, assemble up to a day ahead then bake just before serving. Store topping separately.

Do the nachos need to be baked?

Baking helps melt the cheese and warm all the ingredients through.

How long do leftover nachos last?

They will keep about 3 days in the fridge. Reheat single layers until hot and crispy before serving.

What meat can I use besides chicken?

Shredded pork, ground beef, crumbled sausage or chorizo would all be delicious.

Is rotisserie chicken pre-cooked?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is fully cooked and safe to use without additional cooking.

Can I make nachos without meat?

Absolutely. Load them up with extra veggies, beans or meatless crumbles instead.

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