Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos are a fantastic dish that brings the fun of nachos to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for game days, parties, or casual family dinners, this dish combines crispy tortilla chips with savory BBQ chicken and gooey cheese. The addition of pickled jalapenos and Queso Blanco creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love. Enjoy these nachos as a snack or as the main event at your next gathering!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Nachos
• Toppings
• How to Make Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Mix the Chicken and BBQ Sauce
• Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
• Step 4: Add Toppings
• Step 5: Bake Until Cheese Melts
• Step 6: Drizzle with Queso Blanco
• Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
• How to Serve Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos
• Classic Toppings
• Garnishes
• Accompaniments
• How to Perfect Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos
• Best Side Dishes for Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos
• Reheating Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos spicier?
• Can I use different types of cheese?
• What side dishes go well with BBQ chicken nachos?
• How long does it take to prepare Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of BBQ chicken, cheese, and toppings delivers a mouthwatering experience.
• Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for sharing, making it perfect for parties and family gatherings.
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
• One Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required with everything cooked on a single baking sheet.

Tools and Preparation

To create these Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Medium-sized mixing bowl
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides ample space for layering ingredients and ensures even cooking.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Medium-sized mixing bowl: Perfect for mixing BBQ sauce with chicken without making a mess.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for consistent results.

Ingredients

For the Nachos

• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 3 cups BBQ sauce
• 1 large bag tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese

Toppings

• 1/3 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup mild pickled jalapenos
• 1/2 cup queso blanco
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)

How to Make Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken and BBQ Sauce

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cooked shredded chicken and BBQ sauce until fully combined.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

On the prepared baking sheet:
1. Layer half of the tortilla chips evenly across the surface.
2. Spread half of the BBQ chicken mixture over the chips.
3. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
4. Repeat layering with remaining chips, BBQ chicken, and cheese.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Top your nachos with chopped pickled jalapenos and red onion if desired.

Step 5: Bake Until Cheese Melts

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 11–13 minutes, or until the cheese has melted beautifully.

Step 6: Drizzle with Queso Blanco

Remove from oven and drizzle queso blanco over your nachos along with extra BBQ sauce. Return to oven for an additional 3–4 minutes to warm through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately while hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and any other favorite toppings you desire. Enjoy your Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos!

How to Serve Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos are perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or casual dinners. They can be customized with various toppings and sides to elevate the experience.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream – A creamy addition that balances the flavors and adds a cool touch.
• Guacamole – Rich and flavorful, guacamole enhances the nachos with its buttery texture.
• Fresh Salsa – A zesty salsa adds freshness and acidity that complements the BBQ chicken.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions – These add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to your nachos.
• Extra Queso Blanco – Drizzling more Queso Blanco elevates the cheesy goodness.
• Lime Wedges – Serve lime wedges on the side for a burst of citrus that brightens each bite.

Accompaniments

• Celery Sticks – Crunchy celery sticks provide a refreshing contrast to the rich nachos.
• Pickled Vegetables – Tangy pickled veggies add an extra layer of flavor complexity.

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How to Perfect Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

To make your Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos truly unforgettable, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Freshly shredded chicken and quality cheese enhance the overall flavor.
• Layer Wisely – Layering ingredients helps ensure every chip is covered with delicious toppings.
• Oven Temperature Matters – Baking at 350F ensures the cheese melts perfectly without burning.
• Experiment with Sauces – Try different BBQ sauces or even hot sauces for varied flavors.
• Serve Immediately – To keep nachos crispy, serve them right after baking for the best texture.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

Pair your Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos with delightful side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Chili Con Queso – A warm and cheesy dip that is perfect for scooping with chips.
2. Mexican Street Corn Salad – This vibrant salad features corn, lime, and cotija cheese, adding a fresh taste.
3. Black Bean Salad – A nutritious option packed with protein, this salad features black beans, tomatoes, and cilantro.
4. Slaw Salad – A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots provides a refreshing contrast to the nachos.
5. Fruit Salsa – This sweet salsa combines fruits like mango and pineapple for a delightful twist.
6. Stuffed Jalapeños – Spicy jalapeños stuffed with cream cheese create an added kick alongside nachos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos may seem simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch for and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Chicken Prep: Failing to properly coat your shredded chicken in BBQ sauce can lead to dry nachos. Ensure every piece is well-mixed for maximum flavor.
• Overloading on Toppings: Piling on too many toppings can make the nachos soggy. Stick to a balanced amount of cheese and toppings for the best texture.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Forgetting to preheat your oven can result in unevenly melted cheese. Always preheat for consistent cooking.
• Using Stale Chips: Using old or stale tortilla chips impacts crunchiness. Opt for fresh, crisp chips for that perfect bite.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking nachos too long can burn them, while undercooking leaves cheese unmelted. Keep an eye on the clock!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

• It’s best to freeze components separately (chicken, cheese, and chips).
• You can freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months; however, nachos may not retain their quality once thawed.

Reheating Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos

• Oven: Preheat to 350F and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 30-60 seconds but be careful as this may make chips soggy.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos.

How do I make Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos spicier?

You can add more jalapenos or use a spicier BBQ sauce. Adding hot sauce while preparing the chicken also increases heat.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique flavor profile in your Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos.

What side dishes go well with BBQ chicken nachos?

Pair these nachos with a refreshing salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal that complements their rich flavors.

How long does it take to prepare Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos?

With only a prep time of about 5 minutes and cook time of around 15 minutes, you can whip up these delicious nachos quickly!

Final Thoughts

Easy Sheet Pan BBQ Chicken Nachos are not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces. Whether you’re hosting friends or having a cozy night in, these nachos are sure to please everyone at the table!