There’s something undeniably irresistible about BBQ Chicken Nachos—crispy tortilla chips, tangy BBQ sauce, smoky gouda cheese, and the perfect balance of sweet corn and savory chicken.
Whether it’s game night, a casual dinner, or a weekend snack, this dish brings everything you love in a comforting, shareable bite. It’s no wonder this recipe has become a go-to for those looking to satisfy a crowd with minimal effort.
The best part? It’s versatile. You can customize the toppings to suit your taste—throw in some jalapeños for heat or drizzle with ranch dressing for extra creaminess.
Serve it alongside a Fruit Salad for a sweet contrast, or refresh the palate with a Chilled Cucumber Cocktail to beat the heat.
What makes this BBQ Chicken Nachos recipe stand out is the rich combination of textures and flavors. The crispy chips are loaded with juicy chicken, black beans, corn, and gooey gouda.
Topped with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce, every bite is a perfect blend of smoky, savory, and just the right touch of sweetness. It’s a showstopper, every time.
Feel free to get creative and let me know how you add your spin!
My Favorite Things About This Recipe!
- Quick & Easy: It’s the perfect recipe when you’re looking for something delicious without the hassle.
- Endless Customization: Swap out ingredients or add your favorite toppings for a unique twist.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a party, these nachos are a crowd favorite.
- Great Flavor Balance: The combination of BBQ chicken and fresh toppings makes each bite feel like a flavor explosion.
- Filling & Satisfying: With all the protein, veggies, and cheese, it’s a dish that keeps you full and happy!
Try More BBQ Recipe!
BBQ Chicken Nachos Recipe
Equipment
- Baking sheet or oven-safe dish
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Spoon for scooping
- Oven
Ingredients
- 18 ounces tortilla chips 1 large bag
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce plus more for topping
- ⅓ cup chopped red onion
- 1½ cups canned black beans drained and rinsed
- 1½ cups corn fresh or frozen
- 2 cups shredded smoked gouda cheese
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional Toppings:
- ranch dressing
- chopped jalapeno peppers
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay out tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Shred the cooked chicken and toss it with BBQ sauce.
- Top the chips with the BBQ chicken, black beans, corn, and red onion.
- Sprinkle the shredded smoked gouda cheese evenly over the nachos.
- Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and top with chopped cilantro and extra BBQ sauce.
- Serve with optional toppings like ranch dressing and jalapeños for extra flavor.
Nutrition
Creative Variations For BBQ Chicken Nachos!
1. Smoked Chicken Thighs Instead of Shredded Breast:
Use smoked or grilled chicken thighs for a richer, juicier bite. The fat content enhances the overall depth of BBQ flavor and makes the nachos more indulgent.
2. Switch BBQ Sauce with Chipotle Peach or Cherry Cola BBQ:
Skip the generic bottle—go for a smoky chipotle peach or tangy cherry cola BBQ sauce. It adds a sweet-spicy profile that balances beautifully with sharp cheese and salty chips.
3. Add Pickled Red Onions or Pickled Okra:
Regular red onions are fine, but pickled versions offer a tart crunch that cuts through the richness. Pickled okra adds unexpected Southern charm and texture.
4. Drizzle with Hot Honey Instead of Ranch:
For a gourmet finish, skip ranch and add a light drizzle of hot honey after baking. The sweet-heat combo is irresistible and adds glossy visual appeal.
5. Swap Gouda with Fontina or a Blue Cheese Blend:
Fontina melts luxuriously and pairs well with BBQ. Or try a smoky blue cheese blend for grown-up, game-day nachos with a bold flavor twist.
6. Charred Corn or Elote-Style Topping:
Instead of plain corn, use charred corn tossed in cotija, lime, and Tajín. It adds spice, creaminess, and acid—all in one colorful topping.
7. Smoky Chickpeas for Texture:
Roasted chickpeas seasoned with smoked paprika or BBQ rub add crunch and protein while keeping it hearty for vegetarians (if skipping the chicken).
8. Try Sweet Potato Chips Instead of Tortilla Chips:
Roasted or store-bought sweet potato chips give a sweet-savory contrast that elevates the nachos and aligns well with smoky BBQ flavors.
9. Add a Layer of Queso Blanco Underneath:
Before layering toppings, drizzle queso blanco over the chips—it melts into every corner and creates a creamy foundation for all the toppings.
10. Finish with Crushed Pork Rinds for Crunch:
Just before serving, sprinkle crushed pork rinds on top. It adds smoky crunch and enhances the southern BBQ feel without overwhelming the dish.
Let these variations inspire your next batch—whether it’s for a party or just a “treat yourself” kind of night.
