If you’re looking for the perfect combination of Tex-Mex flavors to elevate your next snack or meal, this Chicken Fajita Nachos recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with juicy, seasoned chicken, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and plenty of melted cheese, these nachos will be a hit for any gathering or family dinner. Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also customizable, allowing you to add your favorite toppings to create a dish that’s truly your own. Let’s dive into how you can make these mouthwatering chicken fajita nachos!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into thin strips)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet of fajita seasoning mix (or your favorite blend of spices)
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- Tortilla chips (enough to cover a baking sheet)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for topping)
- 1/4 cup salsa (for topping)
- 1/4 cup guacamole (for topping)
- Cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
- Jalapeños (optional, for heat)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken strips with your fajita seasoning mix. You can also make your own blend using chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary, then toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes or until they are soft and slightly charred. These vegetables will add the signature fajita flavor to the nachos.
3. Assemble the Nachos
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a large baking sheet, spread out the tortilla chips in an even layer. Top the chips with the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables, making sure to spread everything out evenly. Next, generously sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the chicken and vegetables.
4. Bake the Nachos
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the nachos to ensure they don’t burn.
5. Add Toppings and Serve
Once the nachos are done baking, remove them from the oven and add your favorite toppings. Dollop sour cream, salsa, and guacamole on top, then garnish with fresh cilantro and jalapeños for extra flavor and heat. Serve immediately while the nachos are still warm and crispy.
Tips and Variations
- Add more protein: For an extra hearty dish, feel free to add black beans or refried beans between the layers of tortilla chips.
- Cheese options: While cheddar or Mexican blend cheese works great, you can also experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of a kick.
- Make it spicy: If you love spice, add some hot sauce to the chicken while it’s cooking, or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving.
- Vegetarian option: Swap out the chicken for grilled portobello mushrooms or extra black beans for a vegetarian version of this recipe.
- Sheet pan alternative: For a more communal and impressive presentation, serve the nachos directly on a large sheet pan for everyone to share.
Why Chicken Fajita Nachos?
Chicken fajita nachos are a fantastic way to combine two classic dishes into one irresistible plate of nachos. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, preparing a quick dinner, or just craving something flavorful and fun, this recipe hits all the right notes. The combination of seasoned chicken, fresh peppers, onions, and melted cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
This Chicken Fajita Nachos recipe is guaranteed to satisfy any craving for bold, Tex-Mex flavors in a quick and easy dish. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy with friends and family!