Sizzling Spicy Cheesy Blackened Chicken Nachos Recipe for Game Day

Nachos reach new heights of deliciousness with these spicy cheesy blackened chicken nachos that pack a serious flavor punch.

Every crispy tortilla chip becomes a canvas for mouthwatering toppings and bold spices.

The blackened chicken brings smoky, intense heat to each bite.

Layers of melted cheese cascade over perfectly seasoned meat, creating an irresistible combination.

Crisp edges of tortilla chips provide the perfect crunch against tender, spicy chicken.

These nachos transform an ordinary snack into a crave-worthy meal that sparks excitement at first glance.

Prepare to be amazed by a crowd-pleasing dish that turns any gathering into an unforgettable feast.

Ingredients Needed for Spicy Cheesy Nachos

• Chicken: A versatile protein that carries the bold Cajun spices and serves as the primary ingredient in these nachos.

• Cajun Seasoning, Garlic Powder, Chili Powder, Chile Flakes: A powerful blend of spices that creates a fiery and complex flavor profile for the chicken.
• Hot Sauce: Adds an extra layer of heat and tanginess to the seasoned chicken.

• Onion, Tomatoes, Corn, Jalapenos: Fresh vegetables that provide texture, sweetness, and additional spiciness to the dish.

• Cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, rich topping for the nachos.
• Salsa: Adds moisture and a vibrant flavor to the chicken and vegetable mixture.
• Sour Cream, Basil: Optional garnishes that offer cooling and fresh elements to balance the spicy dish.

• Tortilla Chips: The crunchy foundation that supports all the delicious toppings.

Tools for Assembling Blackened Chicken Nachos

• Cast Iron Skillet: Essential for high-heat cooking and creating a perfect blackened chicken.
• Instant-Read Thermometer: Crucial for checking chicken's internal temperature to ensure safe cooking.
• Large Bowl: Perfect for tossing chicken with seasonings and evenly coating the meat.
• Broiler: Needed to melt cheese and give nachos that delicious golden finish.
• Cutting Board: Useful for preparing vegetables and chopping garnish ingredients.
• Sharp Knife: Required for slicing vegetables and chicken.
• Spatula or Tongs: Helpful for stirring vegetables and moving chicken while cooking.

Instructions for Perfect Nachos Every Time

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven broiler to high, getting ready for a flavor explosion.

Step 2: Spice Up the Chicken

• Cajun seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Chili powder
• Chile flakes
• Hot sauce

Coat every inch of the chicken until it’s bursting with zesty goodness.

Step 3: Sear the Protein

Heat a cast iron skillet to screaming hot.

Cook the seasoned chicken for 10-15 minutes, ensuring it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Cook in batches if the skillet gets crowded.

Move cooked chicken to a waiting plate.

Step 4: Dance with Vegetables

• Onions
• Tomatoes
• Corn
• Jalapeños

Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and sauté until everything softens.

Reunite the chicken with the veggies, mixing them into a mouthwatering medley.

Step 5: Cheese Waterfall

Blanket the chicken-vegetable mixture with cheese and salsa.

Slide under the broiler and watch the cheese transform into a melty masterpiece.

Step 6: Final Flavor Flourish

Top with crispy tortilla chips, dollops of sour cream, fresh basil, or whatever makes your taste buds dance.

Serve immediately and prepare for compliments.

Tips for Spicy, Cheesy Nachos with Crunch

• Carefully monitor cooking time and use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken remains juicy and reaches 165°F without overcooking.
• Work in smaller batches when cooking chicken to maintain high skillet heat and achieve perfect blackened exterior without steaming the meat.
• Adjust chile flakes and hot sauce quantities to personalize heat intensity, letting everyone enjoy the nachos according to their spice tolerance.
• Sauté vegetables just until softened to retain slight crispness and prevent them from becoming mushy during the broiling process.
• Position skillet close to broiler and watch carefully to achieve perfectly melted cheese without burning the toppings.

Fun Nacho Variations for Every Crowd

• Vegetarian Nacho Delight: Replace chicken with black beans or roasted tofu, seasoned with the same Cajun spices for a protein-packed vegetarian alternative.
• Seafood Sensation: Swap chicken for shrimp or white fish, adjusting cooking time to prevent overcooking while maintaining the spicy, cheesy profile.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Nachos: Use cauliflower as a base instead of tortilla chips, creating a lighter version that's keto-friendly and nutrient-dense.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Nachos: Incorporate feta cheese, olives, and add a sprinkle of oregano to give the dish a Greek-inspired Mediterranean twist.

Serving Cheesy Blackened Chicken Nachos

• Party Platter Paradise: Spread nachos on a large wooden board for a stunning communal dining experience that encourages sharing and conversation.
• Fiesta Fresh Finish: Top with cool, crisp ingredients like fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime to balance the spicy, hot flavors of the blackened chicken.
• Game Day Glory: Serve these nachos during sports events or movie nights with cold beer or margaritas to create the perfect casual gathering atmosphere that will impress your guests.
• Leftover Magic: Transform remaining nachos into a breakfast dish by adding a fried egg on top and serving with salsa verde for a delicious morning remix of the original recipe.

Storage Tips for Blackened Chicken Nachos

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken remains fresh and safe to eat.
• Transfer nachos to a freezer-safe container. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing with crispy chips to prevent sogginess.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread nachos on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Remove foil during last 3 minutes to crisp chips.

FAQs

• What is Cajun seasoning?

A blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, black pepper, oregano, and thyme that adds spicy, bold flavor to dishes originating from Louisiana cuisine.

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of other cuts?

Yes, chicken breasts work perfectly. Just ensure they’re cut into even pieces for consistent cooking and slice them against the grain for tenderness.

• How spicy will these nachos be?

The heat level depends on the amount of chile flakes, hot sauce, and jalapenos you use. You can adjust these ingredients to make the nachos mild or extra spicy according to your preference.

• What if I don't have a cast iron skillet?

A heavy-bottomed non-stick skillet or stainless steel pan will work fine. The key is to use a pan that can handle high heat and distribute temperature evenly.

What Makes Cheesy Blackened Chicken Nachos Irresistible

• Blast through boring dinner routines with this fiery, flavor-packed nacho recipe that transforms ordinary chicken into a zesty, crowd-pleasing dish.
• Master this recipe with minimal kitchen skills, using simple techniques like sautéing and broiling to create a restaurant-quality meal in a single skillet.
• Personalize your nachos by adjusting spice levels, swapping vegetables, or adding unique toppings to suit every taste bud and dietary preference.
• Wow friends and family with a shareable, vibrant dish that delivers bold flavors and brings everyone together around the table.

Spicy Cheesy Blackened Chicken Nachos Recipe

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4.7 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mouthwatering spicy cheesy blackened chicken nachos invite diners into a flavor-packed Mexican-inspired feast. Crisp tortilla chips layered with seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and zesty toppings promise you a delicious culinary adventure.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 3 large chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 jalapeno peppers, diced

Seasonings and Spices:

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon red chile flakes
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce

Vegetables and Cheese:

• 1 onion, diced
• 5 roma tomatoes, diced
• 1 15.25-ounce (432 grams) can corn
• 1 1/2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
• Salsa, to taste
• Tortilla chips
• Sour cream
• Fresh basil

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven broiler to high, preparing for a sizzling nacho experience.
2. Coat chicken thoroughly with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, chili powder, chile flakes, and hot sauce, ensuring even distribution of spicy flavors.
3. In a cast iron skillet over high heat, cook the seasoned chicken for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), cooking in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside, then add onion, tomatoes, corn, and jalapenos to the same pan, sprinkling with additional Cajun seasoning.
5. Sauté vegetables until they soften and become slightly caramelized, then reintroduce the cooked chicken, mixing thoroughly to combine flavors.
6. Distribute cheese and salsa evenly over the chicken-vegetable mixture, creating a rich and tangy layer.
7. Place skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully until cheese melts completely and becomes bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and immediately top with crispy tortilla chips, dollops of sour cream, fresh basil, and any additional desired garnishes.
9. Serve hot, ensuring each portion captures the spicy, cheesy essence of the dish.

Notes

• Blackening Technique Ensure high heat for authentic blackened flavor, creating a crispy exterior while keeping chicken juicy and tender.
• Batch Cooking Avoid overcrowding the skillet to achieve proper searing and prevent steaming the chicken, which reduces crispy texture.
• Spice Level Adjustment Modify Cajun seasoning and chile flakes to personalize heat intensity, making the dish adaptable for mild or spicy preferences.
• Dietary Modifications Swap chicken for tofu or plant-based protein alternatives, use dairy-free cheese for vegan version, and choose gluten-free tortilla chips for diverse dietary needs.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Broiling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg