Easy Chicken Skillet Nachosare quick and simple, made with chips, cheese, beans, and more—perfect for feeding a crowd at a football party!– a quick and simple nacho recipe made with chips, loads of cheese, beans, and more! Perfect for feeding a crowd at a Super Bowl party, or cooking a one-pan dinner!

cast iron skillet with chips, chicken, and other ingredients for the skillet chicken nachos.

Easy Chicken Skillet Nachos are as tasty as the pictures look, friends! I made this recipe with football, parties, and entertaining in mind. I love these easy skillet nachos for a few reasons. One, they are delicious and they look fabulous. Two, they take very little time to make which makes them perfect for a party. Three, who doesn’t love nachos!?!

They are a total crowd-pleaser. Making a huge batch of nachos in a skillet means that you can serve them right out of the pan; serving them alongside ranch, guacamole, and salsa means that you have very little prep to do yourself.

a round white plate with skillet, shredded chicken nachos with melted cheese and jalapeños on top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easily prepare by cooking an extra chicken breast in advance.
Use any shredded meat or skip the meat entirely for a customizable dish.
Just add taco seasoning and water for quick flavor.
Can be made in a cast-iron skillet for a stylish presentation or a large rimmed baking sheet for convenience.

Recipe Ingredients

portion bowls each with raw ingredients to make the skillet chicken nacho recipe.

Tortilla chips
Shredded chicken
Taco seasoning
Sharp cheddar cheese
Pepper jack cheese
Black beans
Diced tomato, green onions, black olives, and jalapenos
Ranch dressing
Guacamole
Salsa

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

Popular Substitutions and Variations

Protein Alternatives:Ground Beef: Cook with taco seasoning for a classic flavor.Shredded Pork: Use pulled pork for a smoky taste.Ground Turkey: A leaner option that pairs well with the spices.
Cheese Substitutes:Queso Fresco: For a milder, crumbly option.Vegan Cheese: For a dairy-free alternative.Pepper Jack: For a spicier kick.
Toppings Variations:Pico de Gallo: For a fresh, tangy topping.Salsa Verde: For a zesty, slightly tangy taste.Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled for added heat.Corn: Roasted or fresh for a sweet, crunchy addition.
Chips Alternatives:Tortilla Strips: For a different texture.Pita Chips: For a thicker, heartier base.Sweet Potato Chips: For a slightly sweet twist.

How To Make Chicken Skillet Nachos

shredded chicken in a bowl ready for the skillet chicken nacho recipe.

Step #1.Gather ingredients and shred the chicken.

Step #2.Mix taco seasoning and water with shredded chicken. Layer half of the cheese, chicken, and beans over the chips.

Step #3.Spread tortilla chips evenly in a large cast-iron skillet or baking sheet. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Add another layer of chips and top with the remaining cheese, chicken, and beans.

Step #4.Bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts. Top with chopped tomato, green onions, black olives, and jalapenos.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with ground beef, shredded pork, ground turkey, or even a vegetarian option like black beans or crumbled tofu.

What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?

You can use a large rimmed baking sheet instead. The nachos will still turn out delicious!

How can I make these nachos spicier?

Add more jalapeños, use pepper jack cheese, or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the top before baking.

Expert Tips

Cook and shred the chicken in advance. Toss it with taco seasoning and a bit of water for extra flavor.
Ensure even layers of chips, cheese, and toppings to achieve the perfect balance in every bite.This helps retain heat and gives the nachos a crispier texture. A large rimmed baking sheet works well too.
Mix different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack for a richer flavor.
Fresh toppings like tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeños should be added after baking to maintain their freshness and crunch.
Offer a variety of toppings and dips likeguacamole, sour cream, and salsa on the side so guests can personalize their nachos.