Creamy Chicken Nachos
Creamy chicken nachos feature tender diced chicken combined with a flavorful cheese and spice mixture, baked until bubbly—perfect for sharing at gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 whole cooked chicken, skinned, boned, and diced ⓘ
- 12 oz. cream cheese, room temperature ⓘ
- 8 oz. sour cream ⓘ
- 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. onions, chopped ⓘ
- 2 cloves garlic, minced ⓘ
- 1 tsp. chili powder ⓘ
- 2 pkg. taco seasoning ⓘ
- 2 tsp. ground cumin ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated ⓘ
- salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients (cooked chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, jalapenos, onions, garlic, chili powder, taco seasoning, cumin, cheese, salt, and pepper).
- Spread the mixture evenly on flour tortillas or pitas.
- Bake in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes or until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. You can substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with Cheddar or Pepper Jack for a spicier kick. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with black beans or refried beans. Adding diced tomatoes or corn can also enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these creamy chicken nachos with a side of guacamole, fresh salsa, or a dollop of extra sour cream. They pair wonderfully with Southwest Rice for a complete meal or can be enjoyed as a flavorful appetizer at gatherings. For a refreshing contrast, consider a side of Southwestern Chicken Salad Spirals.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover creamy chicken nachos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tortillas soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Chicken Nachos contains roughly 734 calories, with 27g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (71% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1811mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply spread it on the tortillas and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for parties or busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of flour tortillas?
If you're looking for alternatives to flour tortillas, you can use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, or even pita bread for a different texture. Just ensure to adjust the baking time as needed, as different bases may cook faster.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, consider using spicier jalapenos or even adding diced serrano peppers. You can also incorporate some hot sauce into the mixture or top the nachos with sliced pickled jalapenos before baking for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).