Loaded Chicken Nachos

Name: Loaded Chicken Nachos
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 cups tortilla chips; 2 cups chicken taco meat; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese,; 1 cup diced tomatoes,; avocado, (peeled and sliced); sour cream (to taste); salsa (to taste); sliced black olives, (to taste); Pickled red onions (to taste); roasted corn salsa (I use this recipe.)

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These loaded chicken nachos are the ultimate easy appetizer or game-day snack! Ready in just 20 minutes, this is the best way to turn leftover chicken into something bold, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing.

The side of a sheet pan of chicken nachos with all the fixings.

Why You’ll Love These Pulled Chicken Nachos

For me, nachos are the ultimate snack. Crunchy, salty chips layered with gooey melted cheese and all your favorite toppings? Total win. I usually have leftover chicken from making my ridiculously simple and flavorful taco meat, and while taco leftovers are never a bad thing, it’s always fun to find new ways to use them. That’s where these baked nachos come in.

Whether you're prepping for a big game day or movie night or just want something cheesy and comforting, these nachos deliver every time. They’re incredibly easy to make with pantry staples and completely customizable — basically a guaranteed hit. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Super quick and easy
Uses up leftover chicken
Top it your way
Great for sharing (or not)

A close up overhead image of chicken nachos with all the fixings on a sheet pan.

Ingredient Information And Substitutions

Tortilla chips- Use thick, sturdy chips to avoid sogginess. Blue corn or multigrain also works well.
Cooked chicken- Shredded or chopped. Leftover taco chicken is ideal, but rotisserie or grilled chicken works too. In a pinch, mix your favorite salsa with some shredded chicken.
Shredded cheddar cheese- Use sharp cheddar for more flavor, or swap with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or nacho cheese sauce for a creamy twist.
Black beans- Canned, rinsed, and drained. Pinto beans or refried beans are good alternatives.
Tomatoes- Fresh diced tomatoes are great, but you can also use cherry tomatoes or salsa.
Jalapeños- Slice fresh or use jarred. For less heat, try banana peppers.
Avocado- Sliced or diced. Guacamole works in a pinch.
Sour cream- Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative, while Mexican crema is extra authentic.
Salsa- Use your favorite jarred or homemade version. I used my roasted corn salsa which is so easy and delicious!
Black olives- Optional, but add a nice salty bite.
Pickled Red Onions- Diced green onions and cilantro work too.

An overhead image of labeled recipe ingredients.

How To Make Shredded Chicken Nachos

Step 1- Build the base.

Set the oven to 350 degrees F and line a baking sheet with foil, parchment paper, or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.

Spread your tortilla chips evenly across the pan to cover the surface in a single layer. Top with a layer of shredded cheese

Tortilla chips in a single layer on a lined sheet pan and then a layer of cheese on top of that.

Step 2- Add your toppings.

Scatter a generous amount of chicken, black beans, and shredded cheese on top of the chips- basically any toppings that are ok to be heated. If your chicken is cold from the fridge, consider warming it briefly.

Chicken taco meat and then roasted corn salsa added to the nachos.

Step 3- Bake until melty.

Pop the tray in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and everything is warmed through.

More shredded cheese added to the nachos and then the tray in the oven to bake.

Step 4- Top and serve.

Remove the nachos from the oven and layer on your preferred cold toppings like tomatoes, jalapeños, avocado, olives, sour cream, salsa, and scallions. Serve right away while everything is hot and crisp!

Various toppings added to the nachos after baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are nachos healthy?

Nachos can be as healthy or indulgent as you make them. Using fresh toppings like veggies, lean chicken, and a moderate amount of cheese helps keep them lighter. It’s all about balance and portion size.

How spicy are these nachos?

You control the heat! Add or skip jalapeños and choose milder or spicier toppings based on your preference.

Can these be made ahead of time?

These nachos are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can prep your toppings and chicken in advance for quick assembly.

How do you remove nachos from the pan?

Always line your baking sheet for easy removal — you can lift the whole thing right off and onto your plate. If you're worried about stick, you can always add a spritz of cooking spray before adding the chips. I haven't found this to be necessary, parchment does the job for me!

A hand taking a loaded nacho from the tray.

Tips For Making Chicken Nachos

Warm up the chicken first. It doesn’t have to be piping hot, but it helps everything heat evenly.
Don’t be afraid to have fun with your toppings. Use whatever you’ve got hanging around in the fridge or pantry.
Go heavy on the cheese! It’s what holds everything together, so don’t skimp.
Don’t overload with wet toppings before baking. Add those fresh ingredients after baking to keep things from getting soggy. If you plan to use red onion that isn't pickled, you can add that before baking.
You can make as much or as little as you like, and they cook up fast. This recipe is super simple — no exact measuring needed. Whether it’s just for you or a crowd, don’t expect leftovers. My measurements are just a suggestion.
Ingredients to prep ahead- Chop the any toppings that require it. Shred the cheese, drain the beans, and make the chicken.
Leftovers and storage- These nachos are best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat them in the oven to help crisp them up again.

What To Serve With Sheet Pan Nachos

Make your night a full-on feast by pairing these loaded nachos with some tasty sides and desserts. Whether you want something fresh and light or a bit more hearty, here are some great ideas to complete these loaded nachos with chicken:

Other Appetizer Recipes To Try

A close up image of loaded chicken nachos on a pan.

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