Dinner

Loaded Chicken Nachos Recipe

Name: Loaded Chicken Nachos Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491763H21M11S
Total time: PT-491763H21M11S
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 pound cooked chicken (shredded or diced); 1 bag tortilla chips (about 12 ounces); 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend); 1 can black beans (15 ounces, drained and rinsed); 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); 1 jalapeño (sliced, optional); 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup sliced green onions; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 1 avocado (diced); Sour cream (for serving); Salsa (for serving); 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (optional)

ByNaomi Fletcher February 5, 2026February 5, 2026

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Introduction

Loaded Chicken Nachos are a perfect crowd-pleaser for game days, gatherings, or a quick weeknight snack. These nachos are piled high with seasoned chicken, melted cheese, beans, and fresh toppings that combine for a deliciously satisfying bite every time.

A tray filled with a base layer of yellow corn tortilla chips topped evenly with melted orange and white cheese, followed by shredded chicken pieces scattered across the surface. On top of this, there are diced green avocado chunks, bright red tomato cubes, small yellow corn kernels, and black beans spread around. Thin slices of green jalapeño peppers are placed on top, along with a drizzle of white sour cream sauce. In the center, a dollop of white sour cream is garnished with chopped green herbs. The tray sits on a gray cloth over a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
1 bag tortilla chips (about 12 ounces)
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
1 can black beans (15 ounces, drained and rinsed)
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 jalapeño (sliced, optional)
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 avocado (diced)
Sour cream
Salsa
1 tablespoon taco seasoning (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Toss the cooked chicken with taco seasoning if using, to add extra flavor.
Step 3: Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter.
Step 4: Layer the chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños over the chips.
Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over all the toppings.
Step 6: Bake for 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions.
Step 8: Serve immediately with sour cream and salsa on the side.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before baking.
Swap black beans for pinto beans or refried beans for a different texture.
Use ground beef, turkey, or a plant-based protein instead of chicken for variety.
To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken and add extra beans, corn, and vegetables.
Prepare the dish on a foil-lined baking sheet for easier cleanup.

Storage

Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the chips crisp and cheese melted. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as the chips may become soggy.

How to Serve

A black rectangular tray filled with one layer of yellow corn tortilla chips topped with shredded cooked chicken and melted light orange cheddar cheese spread evenly. On top, there is a mix of diced green avocado, red tomato chunks, black beans, yellow corn kernels, and slices of bright green jalapeño scattered throughout. A large dollop of white sour cream sits in the center, garnished with small green herb pieces. Two small white bowls with green toppings sit blurred in the background. The tray is on a dark cloth over a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?

It’s best to use cooked chicken for this recipe to ensure even cooking and prevent soggy chips. If using raw chicken, cook it thoroughly before assembling the nachos.

What’s the best cheese for loaded nachos?

A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack works well for flavor and meltability, but feel free to use any shredded cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick.