Memphis-Style BBQ Chicken Nachos

Name: Memphis-Style BBQ Chicken Nachos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked pulled or shredded chicken; 1/3 cup BBQ sauce; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 large bag tortilla chips; 2 cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack mix; 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños; 1/4 cup red onion, diced fine; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 tbsp green onions, sliced; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 tbsp extra BBQ sauce for drizzle

35 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

Crispy tortilla chips loaded with smoky pulled BBQ chicken, tangy Memphis dry rub, and melted cheese — the ultimate game-day appetizer.

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

These BBQ chicken nachos bring Memphis-style flavors to a shareable appetizer. Smoky pulled chicken seasoned with a tangy Memphis dry rub is piled on crispy chips with a mountain of melted cheese, pickled jalapeños, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce. They are game day perfection.

Instructions

Season the chicken

Toss shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne until evenly coated.

Build the nachos

Spread tortilla chips in a single layer on a large sheet pan or oven-safe platter. Scatter half the cheese, then all the BBQ chicken, red onion, and jalapeños. Top with remaining cheese. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C by probing the thickest part of the chicken pieces before proceeding.

Pro tip: Layer in two stages — cheese on bottom AND top ensures every chip gets some melted cheese.

Melt the cheese

Bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly and the edges of the chips are golden.

Top and serve

Remove from oven. Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce, dollop with sour cream, and scatter green onions and cilantro on top. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Serve straight from the sheet pan in the center of the table. Eat fast — crispy nachos wait for nobody.

Nutrition per serving

420

Calories

24g

Protein

22g

Fat

Enjoy irresistible nachos topped with tender brisket and melted cheese.

Medium120 min

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