Name: Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 7 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (use storebought rotisserie chicken to save time); ½ cup red enchilada sauce; about 8 ounces corn tortilla chips; ½ cup cooked black beans; ½ cup bell peppers (diced small (I used red and yellow)); ½ cup corn (I used frozen; thaw before using); 2 cups Mexican shredded cheese blend; ¼ cup pico de gallo; 1 teaspoon fresh cilantro (finely minced); guacamole (sour cream, or your other favorite Mexican-inspired fixings, optional)

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There’s something incredibly comforting about sharing a plate of Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos with friends on a cozy evening. I remember the first time I made these; it was a spontaneous gathering at my place, and everyone was craving something fun and delicious. The combination of crispy tortilla chips topped with savory shredded chicken, gooey cheese, and a hint of spice from the enchilada sauce made for the perfect crowd-pleaser. As the cheese melted away in the microwave, the aroma filled the room, and I couldn’t help but smile at the eager faces around the table, all waiting for their share. This dish quickly turned into a favorite, perfect for movie nights or casual get-togethers.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
7 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
2 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Medium Bowl, Microwave-Safe Plate

Why This Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos Is a Winner

Quick and Easy Preparation

The beauty of Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos lies in their simplicity. These nachos come together in a matter of minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute parties. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a delicious dish ready to serve in no time.

Versatile Ingredients

One of the reasons I love this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize the toppings based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you prefer black beans, bell peppers, or a zesty pico de gallo, feel free to mix and match. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients while still enjoying a satisfying meal.

Perfect for Sharing

Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos are made for sharing. They’re fun to eat and perfect for gatherings, allowing everyone to dig in and enjoy together. There’s something special about gathering around a plate of melty nachos, laughing, and adding your favorite toppings as you go.

Flavor Explosion

This dish is bursting with flavors! The combination of shredded chicken mixed with rich enchilada sauce and topped with creamy cheese brings an explosion of taste in every bite. Plus, the crunch of the tortilla chips adds a delightful texture that everyone loves.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s game day, a casual dinner, or a spontaneous hangout, Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos fit the bill. They’re incredibly versatile and can be made to suit any occasion, making them a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Minimal Clean-Up

Another aspect I appreciate is the minimal clean-up involved. With just a couple of bowls and a microwave-safe plate, you can whip up this dish without creating a mountain of dishes. It’s a win-win!

What to Buy for Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos

When it comes to making Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos, the ingredients you choose play a crucial role in the overall flavor and enjoyment of the dish. Each component complements the others, creating a delightful harmony that makes every bite satisfying. The key players include crispy tortilla chips, tender shredded chicken, and a flavorful enchilada sauce, all topped off with melted cheese for that comforting touch.

2 cups cooked shredded chicken, use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time
½ cup red enchilada sauce
about 8 ounces corn tortilla chips
½ cup cooked black beans
½ cup bell peppers, diced small (I used red and yellow)
½ cup corn, I used frozen; thaw before using
2 cups Mexican shredded cheese blend
¼ cup pico de gallo
1 teaspoon fresh cilantro, finely minced
guacamole, sour cream, or your other favorite Mexican-inspired fixings, optional

Recipe Steps for Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos

Get ready to make some delicious Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos! This dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll see how easy it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the cooking process!

In a medium bowl, add the shredded chicken and red enchilada sauce. Stir to combine well, ensuring each piece of chicken is coated in the sauce. Set this aside for a moment; the flavors will meld beautifully.
Now, take a large microwave-safe plate or shallow bowl and layer your corn tortilla chips in a flat pattern. Try not to overlap them too much; you want each chip to get a fair share of the toppings!
Begin layering your toppings. Evenly distribute the saucy chicken mixture over the chips, followed by the black beans, bell peppers, and corn. Make sure every chip gets some love!
Next, sprinkle the Mexican shredded cheese blend generously over the top. The more cheese, the better!
Microwave the plate on high for about 2 minutes, but keep an eye on it. Every microwave is different, so stop every 30 seconds to check on the cheese. You want it melted and bubbly.
Once the cheese is melted, carefully remove the plate from the microwave. It will be hot, so watch out!
Now it’s time to garnish! Evenly sprinkle the pico de gallo and cilantro over the nachos. Feel free to add any optional toppings like guacamole or sour cream to elevate the flavors.
Serve the nachos immediately while they’re warm and fresh. They’re best enjoyed right away!
As you dig in, encourage everyone to get their hands on the nachos and customize their toppings as they please. Enjoy the laughter and the deliciousness!

Things Worth Knowing

Make sure to use a microwave-safe plate to prevent any accidents while heating.
If you want to bake the nachos instead, preheat your oven to 375F and bake for about 5 to 10 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
Layering is key! Try to evenly distribute the toppings so every chip is flavorful.
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce on top before serving.

Recipe Variations about Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to change up your Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos and keep things exciting. Let’s explore some delicious variations!

Adding Proteins: You can swap out the chicken for ground beef or even grilled shrimp for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, use black beans and add sautéed zucchini or mushrooms as toppings.
Spicy Nachos: Add jalapeños or sprinkle some chili powder over the cheese before melting for an extra kick.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for heat or cheddar for a classic touch.
Different Sauces: Try using verde sauce instead of red enchilada sauce for a change in flavor.
Garnishing: Top with a drizzle of sour cream, fresh guacamole, or even a sprinkle of chopped green onions for freshness.
Serving Style: Serve the nachos on a large platter for family-style dining or make individual servings in small bowls.

What to Serve With Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos

When it comes to serving Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos, there are several delightful options to complement this dish. Here are some great ideas:

Fresh Salads: Pair the nachos with a crisp salad, such as a garden salad or a Mexican-style corn salad, to balance the richness of the cheese.
Spicy Salsa: A side of zesty salsa or spicy pico de gallo can enhance the flavor and add freshness to every bite.
Refried Beans: Serve with a side of refried beans for a hearty addition that echoes the Mexican flavors.
Guacamole: Fresh guacamole is a must! It adds creaminess and pairs perfectly with the nachos.
Drinks: Offer refreshing drinks like margaritas or ice-cold flavored soda to keep the vibe festive.
Occasions: These nachos are perfect for casual get-togethers, game days, or even as a fun dinner option for family.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. However, nachos are best enjoyed fresh!

FAQ

While Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some components ahead of time. For example, you can mix the shredded chicken with the enchilada sauce and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and microwave when you’re ready to serve!

If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider replacing the shredded chicken with grilled vegetables or black beans. You can also experiment with tofu for a protein-packed alternative that fits your dietary needs.

To store leftovers of your Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the chips separate to maintain their texture. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in the microwave until warmed through.

Absolutely! You can add a variety of toppings to enhance your Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos. Some great options include jalapeños for heat, guacamole for creaminess, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos are a fantastic blend of flavors and textures, making them a standout dish for any casual gathering. These nachos embody comfort food at its finest, with crispy chips, savory toppings, and a gooey cheese layer that’s hard to resist. I hope you give them a try and enjoy the joy they bring to your table!

So, don’t wait too long—whip up a batch of these nachos tonight, and gather your friends or family for a fun, delicious meal. I promise, they’ll be a hit!

Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos

The ultimate comfort food, Loaded Chicken Enchilada Nachos are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a cozy night in or a fun gathering, these delicious nachos will satisfy your cravings. Enjoy them topped with your favorite fixings for an easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love!

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 2

Total Time 7

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

medium bowl
Microwave-Safe Plate

Ingredients

2 cups cooked shredded chicken use storebought rotisserie chicken to save time
½ cup red enchilada sauce
about 8 ounces corn tortilla chips
½ cup cooked black beans
½ cup bell peppers diced small (I used red and yellow)
½ cup corn I used frozen; thaw before using
2 cups Mexican shredded cheese blend
¼ cup pico de gallo
1 teaspoon fresh cilantro finely minced
guacamole sour cream, or your other favorite Mexican-inspired fixings, optional

Instructions

In a medium bowl, add the shredded chicken and red enchilada sauce. Stir to combine well, ensuring each piece of chicken is coated in the sauce. Set this aside for a moment; the flavors will meld beautifully.
Now, take a large microwave-safe plate or shallow bowl and layer your corn tortilla chips in a flat pattern. Try not to overlap them too much; you want each chip to get a fair share of the toppings!
Begin layering your toppings. Evenly distribute the saucy chicken mixture over the chips, followed by the black beans, bell peppers, and corn. Make sure every chip gets some love!
Next, sprinkle the Mexican shredded cheese blend generously over the top. The more cheese, the better!
Microwave the plate on high for about 2 minutes, but keep an eye on it. Every microwave is different, so stop every 30 seconds to check on the cheese. You want it melted and bubbly.
Once the cheese is melted, carefully remove the plate from the microwave. It will be hot, so watch out!
Now it’s time to garnish! Evenly sprinkle the pico de gallo and cilantro over the nachos. Feel free to add any optional toppings like guacamole or sour cream to elevate the flavors.
Serve the nachos immediately while they’re warm and fresh. They’re best enjoyed right away!
As you dig in, encourage everyone to get their hands on the nachos and customize their toppings as they please. Enjoy the laughter and the deliciousness!