Mexican Chicken Nachos

If you’re searching for the ultimate party snack or a cozy dinner that brings everyone together, look no further than these Mexican Chicken Nachos. Bursting with flavor and loaded with toppings, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or just enjoying a movie night at home, these nachos are the perfect way to indulge.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Mexican Chicken Nachos are the epitome of comfort food. They combine savory ground chicken seasoned with a blend of spices, creamy cheese, and a rainbow of fresh toppings that appeal to all palates. Plus, they’re incredibly shareable, making them the perfect dish for any gathering. Everyone loves nachos, and this version is not only delicious but also easy to customize to fit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredient Notes

• Ground Chicken: You can use 1 pound of ground chicken, or for a quicker option, shredded cooked rotisserie chicken works beautifully.
• Kosher Salt: Essential for enhancing the flavor of the chicken and beans.
• Chili Powder: Adds warmth and depth to the dish.
• Paprika: Offers a hint of smokiness.
• Ground Black Pepper: Provides a subtle kick.
• Cumin: A key spice in Mexican cuisine, adding earthiness.
• Coriander: Complements the cumin for a well-rounded flavor.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the chicken.
• Canned Beans: A mix of black, pinto, and white beans adds protein and texture.
• Tortilla Chips: The base of your nachos! Choose your favorite brand or make your own.
• Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend: For that gooey, melty goodness.
• Pickled Jalapeños: Adds a zesty kick.
• Shredded Lettuce: For a fresh crunch.
• Black Olives: A classic nacho topping that adds briny flavor.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Adds a burst of color and sweetness.
• Avocado: Creamy and nutritious, perfect for balancing the spiciness.
• Red Onion: Adds a sharp bite and vibrant color.
• Sour Cream: Creamy and tangy, a must-have for nachos.
• Fresh Cilantro: For a pop of freshness.
• Lime Slices: A squeeze of lime brightens up the flavors.

Setup & Equipment

• Large Skillet: For cooking the chicken and beans.
• Baking Sheet: To assemble and bake the nachos.
• Oven: For melting the cheese and heating the nachos.
• Serving Platter: To serve the nachos family-style.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Spatula: For mixing and serving.

Mexican Chicken Nachos in Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground chicken (or shredded rotisserie chicken) and cook until it’s no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1 teaspoon of coriander over the chicken. Stir well to coat the meat evenly in the spices.

Step 3: Add the Beans

Once the chicken is cooked and seasoned, stir in 1 cup each of drained canned black beans, pinto beans, and white beans. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Assemble the Nachos

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a large baking sheet, spread 6 cups of tortilla chips in an even layer. Top the chips with the chicken and bean mixture. Generously sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend over the top.

Step 5: Bake the Nachos

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Add the Toppings

Once out of the oven, scatter 2 tablespoons of pickled jalapeños, 1 cup of shredded lettuce, ½ cup of black olives, and 1 cup of sliced cherry tomatoes over the nachos. Top with slices of avocado and 2 tablespoons of sliced red onion.

Step 7: Serve with Dips

Serve the nachos hot, garnished with dollops of sour cream, fresh cilantro, and lime slices on the side for squeezing over the top.

Better-for-You Options

• Use baked tortilla chips instead of fried for a lighter option.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat and add protein.
• Incorporate more veggies, like chopped bell peppers or corn, for added nutrition.
• Choose low-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.

Cook’s Commentary

These Mexican Chicken Nachos are highly customizable. Feel free to swap out the proteins or beans based on what you have on hand. If you’re a fan of spicy food, add more jalapeños or even some diced serrano peppers. If you prefer a milder version, skip the jalapeños altogether. This dish is all about finding the perfect balance of flavors and textures, so don’t hesitate to get creative! If you’re looking for another comforting dish, check out Loaded Ground Beef Nacho Casserole for a delicious twist.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the nachos on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For freezing, it’s best to freeze the chicken and beans mixture separately from the chips. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat the mixture, then assemble the nachos fresh each time.

Popular Questions

Can I use other types of meat for these nachos?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even shredded pork would work well in this recipe. Just ensure you adjust the cooking times accordingly.

What can I substitute for the beans?

If you’re not a fan of beans, you can omit them entirely or replace them with grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

How can I make these nachos vegetarian?

Simply replace the ground chicken with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers or use a meat substitute like lentils or a plant-based ground meat product.

What toppings do you recommend?

In addition to the toppings mentioned, feel free to add fresh corn, diced green onions, or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!

Don’t Miss These

• Cheesy Chicken Taco Pasta Casserole
• Loaded Ground Beef Nacho Casserole
• Ultimate Veggie Quesadillas
• Spicy Chicken Tacos

Bring It to the Table

Gather your friends and family around the table and serve up these delicious Mexican Chicken Nachos. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress, and the best part is that everyone can dig in and customize their own plate. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will create an irresistible atmosphere, making your meal a memorable experience. Enjoy every cheesy, spicy, and crunchy bite!

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