Spicy Cheesy Blackened Chicken Nachos Recipe: A Perfect Blend of Heat and Flavor

Imagine a plate of crispy tortilla chips smothered in melted cheese, topped with spicy blackened chicken, creamy avocado, and a burst of fresh toppings. That’s exactly what you’ll get with this Spicy Cheesy Blackened Chicken Nachos recipe! Whether you're gearing up for game day, hosting friends, or just craving something indulgent, this dish has all the flavor you need.

Photo byRecipe Smooth

This recipe is one of my go-to favorites when I want to impress guests with minimal effort. It brings together the bold, smoky flavor of blackened chicken with the creamy richness of cheddar and pepper jack cheese. Each bite offers a perfect balance of heat from the pickled jalapeños and the cooling creaminess of fresh avocado and sour cream.

I first stumbled upon this recipe thanks to the wonderful community over at the Recipe Smooth Facebook group. They've shared so many creative spins on classic dishes, and this one is a true standout. Here’s how to make these nachos yourself—prepare to have them disappear from the tray in no time!

A Brief Background: Blackened Chicken and Nachos Fusion

Blackened seasoning originates from Cajun cuisine, bringing a blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and more to create a spicy crust on meats. The technique works beautifully here, adding a delicious kick to the tender chicken that pairs perfectly with the cheesy, crunchy nachos.

Nachos, a beloved Tex-Mex staple, have long been a party favorite. By combining blackened chicken with traditional nacho ingredients, we elevate this dish into something truly special. The smoky, spicy chicken complements the rich cheeses, making each bite a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 oz tortilla chips
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños
• 1/2 cup black beans, drained
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 1 avocado, diced
• Lime wedges for serving

Directions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and coat them evenly with the blackened seasoning. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked and blackened on the outside. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a large baking sheet.
3. Assemble the Nachos: Top the chips with shredded cheddar cheese, shredded pepper jack cheese, black beans, and pickled jalapeños.
4. Bake: Place the nachos in the oven for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Add Toppings: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and top the nachos with sliced blackened chicken, chopped green onions, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, and salsa.
6. Serve: Serve the nachos immediately with lime wedges for a burst of fresh citrus flavor.

Tips and Variations:

• Make It Vegetarian: Swap out the chicken for sautéed bell peppers and onions or grilled portobello mushrooms.
• Extra Heat: If you love it hot, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the finished nachos.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different twist on the flavors.
• Serving Suggestion: Pair these nachos with a refreshing margarita or a cold beer to balance out the spicy notes.

Try This Recipe Today!

If you love nachos with a kick, this Spicy Cheesy Blackened Chicken Nachos recipe is a must-try. The combination of crispy chips, melty cheese, and juicy blackened chicken is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a go and let me know how it turns out—leave a comment below and share it with friends who love a good snack. Don’t forget to follow for more delicious recipes!