Last Updated on February 16, 2024
When it comes to appetizers, nachos are a crowd-pleasing favorite, and nachos de pollo take this beloved dish to new heights. Nachos de pollo, or chicken nachos, are a tasty and satisfying option for any gathering or even a cozy night in.
Combining classic Mexican flavors with tender chicken and a variety of toppings, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Read on to learn how to make this at home.
What is nachos de pollo?
Nachos de pollo is a delicious twist on traditional nachos, featuring the addition of succulent chicken as the centerpiece. The chicken is seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices, cooked to perfection, and then paired with a generous portion of crispy corn tortilla chips.
Topped with an assortment of ingredients like avocado, olives, onions, and cheese, these nachos offer a tantalizing medley of flavors and textures.
Why This Recipe Works?
1. Perfect Combination of Crunch and Tenderness: The crispy corn tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch, while the seasoned chicken adds a delightful tenderness to each bite.
2. Versatility: Nachos de pollo can be customized to suit different preferences. You can add or substitute toppings, adjust the spice level, or even experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
3. Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal preparation and cook time, making it an excellent option for both weeknight dinners and last-minute gatherings.
4. Family-Friendly: Nachos de pollo is a dish that appeals to both adults and children alike. The familiar flavors and interactive nature of assembling your own nachos make it a fun and enjoyable meal for the whole family.
Descriptive Ingredients
- Cooked chicken, sliced: Cooked chicken provides protein and adds substance to the nachos de pollo. Its savory flavor pairs well with the other ingredients, enhancing the overall taste and texture of the dish.
- Chopped onions: Chopped onions add crunch and a pungent, sweet flavor to the nachos de pollo. They provide depth and complexity to the dish, balancing the richness of the cheese and chicken.
- Shredded Mexican cheese blend: Shredded Mexican cheese blend melts beautifully and adds richness and creaminess to the nachos. It contributes to the gooey texture and enhances the savory flavor of the dish with its blend of cheeses.
- Lime juice, freshly squeezed: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds acidity and brightness to the nachos de pollo. It helps cut through the richness of the cheese and chicken, balancing the flavors and refreshing the palate.
- Sliced green and black olives: Sliced green and black olives add a briny, salty flavor and a contrasting texture to the nachos de pollo. They provide a burst of Mediterranean-inspired flavor and visual interest to the dish.
- Sliced pickled jalapeños: Pickled jalapeños add heat and tanginess to the nachos de pollo. They provide a spicy kick and a zesty flavor that complements the other ingredients, adding depth and complexity to the dish.
- Daisy sour cream: Sour cream adds creaminess and a cool, tangy flavor to the nachos de pollo. It helps balance the heat from the jalapeños and adds richness to each bite.
- Fajita seasoning mix: Fajita seasoning mix adds Tex-Mex flavor and spices to the nachos de pollo. It provides a savory, smoky flavor profile with hints of garlic, cumin, and chili powder, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Rinsed and drained canned black beans: Black beans add protein, fiber, and a hearty texture to the nachos de pollo. They provide substance and depth to the dish, making it more filling and nutritious.
- Salsa: Salsa adds freshness, acidity, and a burst of flavor to the nachos de pollo. It complements the other ingredients with its blend of tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and spices, adding vibrancy and moisture to each bite.
- Avocado, sliced: Sliced avocado adds creaminess and a buttery texture to the nachos de pollo. It provides a rich source of healthy fats and adds a fresh, tropical flavor to the dish.
- Blue corn tortilla chips: Blue corn tortilla chips serve as the base and vehicle for the nachos de pollo. They provide a sturdy, crunchy texture and a mild, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
How To Make Nachos de Pollo?
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2:
In a bowl, combine the avocado, olives, onions, and pickled jalapeños. Set aside.
Step 3:
Arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish.
Step 4:
Drizzle the sour cream over the chips, followed by the black beans.
Step 5:
Squeeze the lime juice over the beans and chips.
Step 6:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the nachos.
Step 7:
In a small bowl, mix the fajita seasoning with the cooked chicken, then distribute the seasoned chicken over the nachos.
Step 8:
Spoon the salsa over the entire dish.
Step 9:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 10:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Perfect Nachos de Pollo
– Use blue corn tortilla chips for added color and flavor.
– Shred the chicken for better distribution and easier bites.
– Adjust the spice level by adding more or less pickled jalapeños.
– Warm the beans before adding them to the nachos for enhanced flavor.
– Serve immediately after baking to ensure the optimal texture and temperature.
Nutrition Information
Note: The nutritional information provided is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
– Serving Size: 1 portion
– Calories: 230
– Fat: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Protein: 22g
– Fiber: 6g
– Sugar: 2g
How to Store The Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and warm the nachos for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
However, for the best texture, it is recommended to enjoy nachos de pollo immediately after baking.
Recommended Side Dishes for Nachos de Pollo
1. Guacamole: Classic guacamole pairs beautifully with nachos de pollo, providing a creamy and flavorful contrast.
2. Pico de Gallo: A fresh and tangy salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds a pop of vibrant flavors to your nachos.
3. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in a mixture of mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice adds a delicious twist to your all-time favorite side dish.
4. Mexican Rice: A flavorful Mexican rice dish made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices adds a hearty and filling element to your meal.
If the Items Are Not Available in Your Pantry, Substitute Options:
1. Avocado Substitute: If avocados are not available, you can use a dollop of guacamole or even sliced cucumbers as a refreshing alternative.
2. Black Bean Substitute: Replace black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans for a different twist on the dish.
3. Chicken Substitute: If you don’t have chicken on hand, you can substitute it with cooked ground beef, shrimp, or even vegetarian crumbles for a meatless option.
4. Cheese Substitute: If you prefer a different cheese or don’t have the Mexican cheese blend, Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese can be used as a replacement.
Nachos De Pollo
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1 tablespoon lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1/2 cup sliced green and black olives
- 1/4 cup sliced pickled jalapeños
- 1/2 cup Daisy sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning mix
- 3/4 cup rinsed and drained canned black beans
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1 avocado sliced
- 6 cups blue corn tortilla chips
Instructions
Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2:
- In a bowl, combine the avocado, olives, onions, and pickled jalapeños. Set aside.
Step 3:
- Arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish.
Step 4:
- Drizzle the sour cream over the chips, followed by the black beans.
Step 5:
- Squeeze the lime juice over the beans and chips.
Step 6:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the nachos.
Step 7:
- In a small bowl, mix the fajita seasoning with the cooked chicken, then distribute the seasoned chicken over the nachos.
Step 8:
- Spoon the salsa over the entire dish.
Step 9:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 10:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- – Use blue corn tortilla chips for added color and flavor.
- – Shred the chicken for better distribution and easier bites.
- – Adjust the spice level by adding more or less pickled jalapeños.
- – Warm the beans before adding them to the nachos for enhanced flavor.
- – Serve immediately after baking to ensure the optimal texture and temperature.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make nachos de pollo ahead of time?
Answer: While it is best to enjoy nachos de pollo immediately after baking, you can assemble the ingredients ahead of time, store them separately, and assemble and bake the nachos just before serving.
2. Can I use store-bought salsa instead of making it from scratch?
Answer: Absolutely! Store-bought salsa is a convenient option and can be used in place of homemade salsa without compromising on taste.
3. Can I make nachos de pollo without cheese?
Answer: Yes, omitting the cheese will result in a lighter and dairy-free version of nachos de pollo. However, keep in mind that the cheese adds to the flavor and texture of the dish.
4. Can I add other toppings to nachos de pollo?
Answer: Absolutely! You can get creative and add toppings such as sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, sour cream, or even a drizzle of hot sauce to customize your nachos.
5. Can I use ground chicken instead of sliced chicken in this?
Answer: Yes, substituting sliced chicken with ground chicken can be a delicious alternative. Simply cook the ground chicken with the fajita seasoning and follow the recipe as instructed.
Conclusion
With their irresistible combination of crunchy corn chips, savory seasoned chicken, and a colorful array of toppings, nachos de pollo are a crowd-pleasing treat that will elevate your snacking game.
Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or even a game-day snack, these nachos are sure to impress. So, gather your favorite ingredients, follow our easy recipe, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of nachos de pollo with family and friends.
