Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Buffalo Chicken Nachos are a perfect mix of crispy tortilla chips, spicy buffalo chicken, and gooey cheese, making for an appetizer that’s sure to disappear in minutes. They’re loaded with flavor, easy to make, and customizable with your favorite toppings. Whether you make them in the oven or microwave, they’re always a crowd-pleaser, especially for game days or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups diced chicken (or canned chicken)
1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s Red Hot or any hot sauce)
1/4 cup ranch dressing
Tortilla chips
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (pepper jack is a great option too)
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/2 cup jalapeños, sliced
1/2 cup tomatoes, chopped (optional)

Directions

Mix the Chicken: In a skillet, mix the diced chicken with buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. Heat through until everything is combined and warm.
Layer the Nachos: On a baking sheet, layer tortilla chips, then top with the buffalo chicken mixture and shredded cheese. For extra layers, repeat the process.
Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Add Toppings: Once out of the oven, top your nachos with black olives, jalapeños, and tomatoes for an extra flavor kick.
Serve: Serve immediately with sour cream, salsa, or enjoy as is.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Swap cheddar with mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
Toppings: Add more heat with hot sauce, top with guacamole, or add black beans for a heartier option.
Shredded Chicken: If you prefer, use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of diced chicken for a tender, flavorful alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover nachos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted again. Alternatively, use the microwave for a quicker reheat, but it may not be as crispy.

FAQs

Can I use shredded chicken for these nachos?

Yes, you can use shredded chicken in place of diced chicken, and it will work just as well.

What’s the best way to get melty cheese on top of the nachos?

For the best melted cheese, spread the chips in a single layer, and bake in the oven until the cheese is gooey and bubbly.

Can I make these nachos spicier?

Absolutely! You can increase the amount of buffalo sauce or add extra jalapeños for more heat.

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Nachos without an oven?

Yes! You can microwave the nachos. Layer them in a microwave-safe dish and heat for about 2 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

While nachos are best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for later. Then, assemble and bake when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for ranch dressing?

Blue cheese dressing is a great alternative and enhances the buffalo flavor.

Can I add beans to these nachos?

Yes, black beans or refried beans are great additions to make these nachos heartier.

How do I avoid soggy nachos?

To prevent soggy nachos, ensure the chicken mixture is not too wet and layer the chips well in a single layer.

Are there any toppings I can add to make these nachos even more flavorful?

Try adding fresh cilantro, green onions, or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s not recommended to freeze nachos, as they may lose their texture when reheated.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Nachos are a bold and delicious twist on a classic snack. Perfect for any occasion, they combine the heat of buffalo sauce with the creaminess of ranch dressing, topped with melted cheese and crunchy chips. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a tasty treat, these nachos are sure to be a hit. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings and serve them up for a quick, flavorful dish!

Buffalo Chicken Nachos

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Buffalo Chicken Nachos are a delicious, spicy, and cheesy snack perfect for game days, parties, or casual get-togethers. With crispy tortilla chips, tender buffalo chicken, melted cheese, and flavorful toppings like olives, jalapeños, and tomatoes, these nachos are guaranteed to impress. Easy to prepare and customizable, they make the perfect appetizer that everyone will love!

Ingredients

2 cups diced chicken (or canned chicken)

1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (e.g., Frank’s Red Hot)

1/4 cup ranch dressing

Tortilla chips

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (pepper jack is a great option too)

1/2 cup black olives, sliced

1/2 cup jalapeños, sliced

1/2 cup tomatoes, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

Mix the Chicken: In a skillet, combine the diced chicken with buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. Heat through until everything is well-mixed and warm.
Layer the Nachos: On a baking sheet, layer tortilla chips, then top with the buffalo chicken mixture and shredded cheese. For an extra layer, repeat the process.
Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Add Toppings: Once out of the oven, top your nachos with black olives, jalapeños, and tomatoes for extra flavor.
Serve: Serve immediately with sour cream, salsa, or enjoy as is.

Notes

Cheese Options: Swap cheddar with mozzarella, gouda, or your favorite cheese blend.

Toppings: You can add guacamole, hot sauce, or even black beans to customize your nachos further.

Shredded Chicken: Feel free to use shredded rotisserie chicken for a tender, flavorful option.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Oven, Microwave
Cuisine: American