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Crispy Campfire Nachos with Smoky Grilled Chicken

Crispy Campfire Nachos with Smoky Grilled Chicken - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring smoky grilled chicken layered with crispy tortilla chips, melted cheeses, and fresh toppings, perfect for casual gatherings or solo comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 8 oz sturdy tortilla chips
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup fresh corn kernels (optional)
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (seeds removed to reduce heat)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces until fully coated. Let sit for 10 minutes or up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.
  2. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken pieces for 4-5 minutes per side until charred and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then dice into bite-sized chunks.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F. Spread half of the tortilla chips evenly on a large oven-safe skillet or baking sheet.
  4. Scatter half the grilled chicken over the chips, followed by half the black beans, corn kernels, and shredded cheeses. Add remaining chips on top, then repeat layering with chicken, beans, corn, and cheeses.
  5. Bake the assembled nachos for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to avoid burning the chips.
  6. Remove nachos from oven and immediately sprinkle diced tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and jalapeños over the top.
  7. Serve with dollops of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side and lime wedges for squeezing over each serving.

Notes

Use thick, sturdy tortilla chips to prevent sogginess. Layer cheese both under and over toppings to keep chips crispy. Marinate chicken ahead for deeper flavor. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese and plant-based yogurt. To reheat leftovers, warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: campfire nachos, smoky grilled chicken, crispy nachos, easy nachos recipe, grilled chicken nachos, quick dinner, comfort food