Southwestern Chicken Loaded Nachos

Name: Southwestern Chicken Loaded Nachos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 bag tortilla chips; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 jalapeño, sliced; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped; 1/2 cup guacamole; 1/2 cup sour cream

Highlighted under: Warm Bowl Creations

I absolutely love making Southwestern Chicken Loaded Nachos for game days or casual gatherings with friends. The combination of seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and fresh toppings really makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. I think what sets my version apart is the way I layer everything with care, ensuring every chip is bursting with flavor. It’s like a festival of textures and tastes in every bite, and I can't stress enough how simple yet satisfying it is to prepare these nachos at home.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-01-22T12:10:29.349Z

When I first tried making these nachos at home, I was surprised by how easy it was to replicate my favorite restaurant version. The key is in the seasoning of the chicken; I recommend using a mix of cumin and chili powder for that authentic Southwestern flavor. One tip I've learned over time is to slightly undercook the chicken before layering it on the nachos. This prevents it from becoming dry while baking.

Additionally, I never skimp on the toppings. Fresh jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of guacamole really take these nachos to the next level. I remember the first time I served these to friends; they practically devoured the entire platter in minutes. It’s a testament to how irresistible they are!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Loaded with flavor from seasoned chicken and tangy cheese
A perfect balance of crispy chips and creamy toppings
Easily customizable for any taste, from mild to spicy

Perfectly Seasoned Chicken

The seasoned chicken is the star of these nachos, providing a deep layer of flavor that seeps into every chip. As you heat the olive oil, ensure it’s hot enough to lightly sizzle when you add the chicken. This creates a slight crust on the chicken, enhancing both flavor and texture. The combination of cumin and chili powder not only warms your dish but also complements the creamy toppings perfectly. A quick stir-fry around medium heat for about five minutes will ensure the chicken is heated through without becoming dry.

If you want to change things up, consider using a different protein such as shredded beef or turkey; both will work beautifully with the spices. For a vegetarian twist, opt for sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit seasoned with the same spices to capture a similar depth of flavor. Just remember that the cooking time will vary slightly, especially for vegetables, so keep an eye on them to ensure they become tender but not mushy.

Layering Techniques

Layering your nachos correctly is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Start by spreading the tortilla chips in an even layer; using a large baking sheet helps maximize space. As you add the chicken and toppings, make sure to distribute them evenly across the chips to avoid any dry spots. This way, every bite will be just as delicious as the last. Some chips can become soggy if the toppings are piled on too thickly, so balance is key.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings. Add a layer of corn or diced bell peppers for extra crunch or fresco cheese for a tangy twist. This enhances not only the flavor but also visual appeal. Just remember to keep the layering proportional; too many toppings can overwhelm the chips and cause them to break.

Ingredients

For the Nachos

1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 bag tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 jalapeño, sliced
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
1/2 cup guacamole
1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shredded chicken, cumin, and chili powder, stirring well to coat the chicken in spices. Cook for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Layer the Nachos

On a large baking sheet, spread out half of the tortilla chips. Evenly distribute half of the seasoned chicken, followed by half of the black beans and cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the nachos for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Top and Serve

Remove from the oven and top with jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and green onions. Add dollops of guacamole and sour cream before serving.

Enjoy Your Nachos!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorites, such as cilantro, olives, or even jalapeño poppers.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, it’s best to store the nachos in an airtight container without toppings to keep the chips crisp. You can easily reheat them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore some of the original texture, unlike microwaving, which can make the chips chewy. Always add fresh toppings like guacamole and sour cream after reheating to ensure they retain their flavor and texture.

To make ahead, you can prep the seasoned chicken a day in advance and refrigerate it, allowing the flavors to deepen. When ready to serve, just layer and bake the nachos as directed. This little prep step can save you time and help you focus on enjoying your gathering rather than rushing through meal prep.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings. If you’re serving a crowd, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking sheet or multiple sheets. The layers of flavor will still be effective; just be cautious with the oven time as thicker layers may require an additional few minutes to achieve the desired melt on the cheese. Consider making a side of salsa or a fresh salad to complement your nachos, as these light dishes can balance the richness of the nachos.

Conversely, for a smaller portion, halve the ingredients but still bake them on a standard sheet to keep the distribution of toppings even. If you have a craving for a late-night snack, this recipe is perfect for two! Just reduce the chicken and toppings but keep the same layering technique for maximum flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground beef or turkey works great as well.

→ How can I make this vegetarian?

Simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or roasted veggies for flavor.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

You can prep the chicken and other ingredients ahead of time but layer and bake right before serving for the best texture.

→ What can I do with leftovers?

Leftover nachos can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.