Southwestern Chicken Loaded Nachos

Name: Southwestern Chicken Loaded Nachos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 bag of tortilla chips; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (seasoned with taco seasoning); 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup sliced black olives; 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños (optional); 1 avocado, diced; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 lime, cut into wedges

Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love making Southwestern Chicken Loaded Nachos for gatherings or cozy nights in. This dish is not just about chips and cheese; it’s a flavor explosion with layers of seasoned chicken, vibrant veggies, and creamy toppings. The best part is how customizable they are—add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level. My family always asks for these nachos, and I can confidently say they’re a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together. Let’s dive in and create a plate of crunchy goodness!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-22T11:05:27.942Z

When I first made Southwestern Chicken Loaded Nachos, I was amazed by how simple ingredients could come together for such a delicious dish. I used leftover rotisserie chicken, which really cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor. The key is to layer the toppings. Start with the chips, then add the seasoned chicken, followed by beans and cheese to ensure every chip is loaded with goodness!

One evening, I experimented by adding pickled jalapeños, and they were a total hit! The tangy heat gave an extra dimension that balanced perfectly with the creamy avocado and sour cream. These nachos have become a staple in our home, and I hope they find a place in yours, too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory, spiced chicken adds a hearty touch.
A rainbow of toppings makes it visually stunning.
Perfect for sharing and great for parties.

Perfecting the Chicken

The heart of these Southwestern Chicken Loaded Nachos is the seasoned chicken. Using cooked, shredded chicken lets you build flavor quickly—roast or grill the chicken beforehand for a smoky depth. My go-to is taco seasoning; it provides a spectrum of spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic that elevate the dish. If you’re in a time crunch, a rotisserie chicken works wonders and saves you hours in the kitchen.

For a healthier twist, you can substitute shredded chicken with sautéed tofu or tempeh, marinated in the same taco seasoning. This vegan option not only matches the texture but also allows everyone to enjoy the bold flavors without feeling left out.

Layering for Success

Layering is crucial for the perfect nacho experience, ensuring each chip gets a bit of everything. Start with a hefty base of chips on a large, flat baking sheet to facilitate even heating. Avoid overcrowding; leave space between chips to allow the cheese to melt properly without becoming soggy. The bottom layer should be sturdy to support the toppings.

To enhance crunchiness, consider baking the chips alone for 5 minutes before adding your toppings. This simple step can prevent nachos from becoming limp and ensures they hold up against the moisture from toppings like tomatoes and sour cream.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your nacho board, consider offering a variety of toppings on the side. Think homemade guacamole, fresh pico de gallo, or a zesty salsa verde. This not only caters to different taste preferences but also lets guests customize their plates. For added fun, I like to set up a 'nacho bar' where everyone can build their own nachos just the way they like them.

Leftover nachos can be stored in the fridge for a day, but they tend to lose their crunch. To revive them, I recommend baking the leftovers at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This quickly brings back some texture while allowing the cheese to melt again, making them nearly as good as when first made!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a perfect nacho night!

Ingredients

1 bag of tortilla chips
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (seasoned with taco seasoning)
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1/2 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges

Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste!

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your nachos.

Layer the Chips

Spread a generous layer of tortilla chips on a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter.

Add Chicken and Beans

Evenly distribute the seasoned shredded chicken and black beans over the chips.

Cheese It Up

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously across the top.

Bake Until Golden

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Top and Serve

Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, olives, jalapeños, avocado, and a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious, loaded nachos!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, broil the nachos for a few minutes after baking, but watch them closely to prevent burning.

Ingredient Highlights

Black beans are not only a great source of protein but they also add a lovely creaminess to the nachos. Their slight sweetness balances the spiciness of the jalapeños and seasoned chicken. If you prefer a quicker prep, canned black beans work just fine—just make sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium.

The choice of cheese can significantly influence the overall taste. While cheddar is a classic option, blending in Monterey Jack can provide a smooth melt with a buttery flavor. For a kick, pepper jack cheese adds both spicy notes and stringiness that make every bite irresistible.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your cheese doesn’t melt properly, ensure you're baking at the correct temperature. Cheese requires a minimum temperature of around 160°F (71°C) to melt smoothly. Be cautious not to overbake; keep an eye on the nachos to avoid burning the edges, which can happen quickly once the cheese starts to bubble.

For a spice level that suits everyone's palate, you can serve jalapeños on the side instead of baking them on top. This allows each person to customize their heat level without overwhelming others. Another option is to use milder peppers or omit them altogether while still delivering bold flavor with the seasoned chicken.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this nacho recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add more beans or sautéed vegetables for a filling alternative.

→ How can I reheat leftover nachos?

To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This helps keep the chips crispy.

→ Can I prepare these nachos ahead of time?

For best results, prepare individual components ahead of time and layer them just before baking to avoid sogginess.

→ What are some good topping alternatives?

Feel free to experiment with toppings like corn, diced onions, diced bell peppers, or different types of cheese!