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Sheet Pan Chicken Nachos Recipe Easy Homemade Nachos for Game Day

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Sheet pan chicken nachos are a quick and easy recipe perfect for game days and casual gatherings, featuring smoky chicken, melted cheese, and fresh toppings on crispy tortilla chips.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 6 cups tortilla chips
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack blend)
  • 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 12 jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced, seeds removed if desired
  • 2 stalks green onions, sliced thin
  • 1 cup pico de gallo
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt for topping
  • Avocado or guacamole, sliced or mashed

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Toss with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
  3. Spread the chicken evenly on a large sheet pan. Bake for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and slightly browned (internal temperature 165°F).
  4. Remove the chicken from the oven and lower the temperature to 375°F (190°C).
  5. On the same sheet pan (wipe clean if needed), spread half the tortilla chips in an even layer. Scatter half the cooked chicken, half the black beans, and half the jalapeños over the chips. Sprinkle half the shredded cheese over everything.
  6. Add the remaining chips, chicken, beans, jalapeños, and cheese in a second layer.
  7. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  8. Remove from oven and immediately top with green onions, pico de gallo, cilantro, sour cream, and avocado or guacamole.
  9. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

Cook chicken separately before layering to keep chips crispy. Use two thinner layers of chips and toppings to avoid sogginess. Adjust spice level by removing jalapeño seeds or adding chipotle peppers. For dairy-free, substitute vegan cheese and coconut-based sour cream. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

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