Kickin’ Buffalo Chicken Nachos: The Ultimate Game Day Feast

Get ready to elevate your snack game with these incredibly delicious and easy-to-make Kickin’ Buffalo Chicken Nachos! Perfect for game day, parties, or a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe combines crispy tortilla chips with juicy buffalo chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and all your favorite toppings. These nachos are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, so gather your friends and family and prepare for a flavor explosion.

## Why You’ll Love These Buffalo Chicken Nachos

* **Flavor Explosion:** The combination of spicy buffalo chicken, cheesy goodness, and fresh toppings creates an irresistible flavor profile.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe is surprisingly simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
* **Customizable:** Easily adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** These nachos are always a hit with everyone, from kids to adults.
* **Versatile:** Serve as an appetizer, snack, or even a full meal.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

### For the Buffalo Chicken:

* 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice)
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

### For the Cheese Sauce:

* 4 tablespoons butter
* 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk
* 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

### For the Nachos:

* 1 large bag (10-12 ounces) tortilla chips
* 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
* 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)

### Toppings (Choose Your Favorites):

* Diced tomatoes
* Diced red onion
* Sliced green onions
* Diced avocado
* Sour cream
* Ranch dressing
* Blue cheese dressing
* Pickled jalapeños
* Chopped cilantro

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large skillet
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Medium saucepan
* Two forks
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Measuring cups and spoons

## Step-by-Step Instructions

### Part 1: Preparing the Buffalo Chicken

1. **Cook the Chicken:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (74°C).

2. **Shred the Chicken:** Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it cool slightly. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, you can shred it in a stand mixer on low speed.

3. **Make the Buffalo Sauce:** In a bowl, whisk together the buffalo wing sauce, melted butter, apple cider vinegar (if using), garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired spice level.

4. **Combine Chicken and Sauce:** Place the shredded chicken back into the skillet (or a clean skillet if necessary). Pour the buffalo sauce mixture over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Heat through for 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the sauce.

### Part 2: Making the Cheese Sauce

1. **Make the Roux:** In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the cheese sauce.

2. **Add the Milk:** Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to break up any lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken slightly. This will take about 3-5 minutes.

3. **Incorporate the Cream Cheese:** Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese. Whisk until the cream cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the sauce. The sauce should be smooth and creamy.

4. **Add the Cheddar Cheese:** Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, whisking constantly until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and cheesy. Don’t let it scorch. If there are a few unmelted shreds, put the pot back on the burner on low heat for a few seconds.

5. **Season the Cheese Sauce:** Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

### Part 3: Assembling the Nachos

1. **Preheat Oven (Optional):** If you want to bake your nachos for a more melty and cohesive result, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Baking is optional, but it helps the cheese melt evenly and the flavors meld together.

2. **Layer the Tortilla Chips:** Spread a single layer of tortilla chips evenly in a 9×13 inch baking dish (or a large oven-safe platter if not baking). If baking, be sure it is oven safe.

3. **Add Cheese:** Sprinkle half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and half of the crumbled blue cheese (if using) evenly over the chips.

4. **Add Buffalo Chicken:** Spoon half of the buffalo chicken evenly over the chips and cheese.

5. **Drizzle Cheese Sauce:** Drizzle half of the cheese sauce evenly over the chicken and chips.

6. **Repeat Layers:** Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla chips, Monterey Jack cheese, blue cheese (if using), buffalo chicken, and cheese sauce.

7. **Bake (Optional):** If baking, place the nachos in the preheated oven and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If not baking, proceed to the next step.

8. **Add Toppings:** Remove the nachos from the oven (if baked) and immediately add your desired toppings. Diced tomatoes, red onion, green onions, avocado, sour cream, ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, pickled jalapeños, and chopped cilantro are all great options.

9. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the Kickin’ Buffalo Chicken Nachos immediately while they are hot and cheesy. Enjoy!

## Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Nachos

* **Use High-Quality Tortilla Chips:** Choose thick, sturdy tortilla chips that can hold up to the weight of the toppings without getting soggy. Restaurant-style chips are a good choice.
* **Don’t Overload the Chips:** While it’s tempting to pile on the toppings, avoid overloading the chips. Too many toppings can make the nachos soggy and difficult to eat. A good balance is key.
* **Adjust the Spice Level:** Customize the spice level to your preference by adjusting the amount of buffalo wing sauce and cayenne pepper. For a milder flavor, use a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, red onion, and avocado will add a burst of flavor and freshness to your nachos. Don’t skimp on the toppings!
* **Make Ahead Tips:**
* **Buffalo Chicken:** The buffalo chicken can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat before assembling the nachos.
* **Cheese Sauce:** The cheese sauce can also be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently, until smooth.
* **Serving Suggestions:**
* Serve the nachos immediately after assembling to prevent the chips from getting soggy.
* Provide a variety of toppings so guests can customize their nachos to their liking.
* Serve with extra buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.
* **Customize Your Nachos:** Feel free to get creative with your toppings and ingredients. Here are a few ideas:
* Add black beans or corn for extra flavor and texture.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack.
* Add crumbled bacon or chorizo for a smoky flavor.
* Top with a fried egg for a brunch-inspired twist.
* **Dietary Modifications:**
* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free tortilla chips.
* **Dairy-Free:** Use dairy-free cheese sauce and sour cream alternatives.
* **Vegetarian:** Substitute the chicken with black beans or vegetarian crumbles.
* **Lower Sodium:** Use low sodium chips and chicken broth. Choose buffalo sauce with lower sodium content.

## Variations

* **BBQ Chicken Nachos:** Substitute the buffalo sauce with BBQ sauce for a smoky and sweet flavor.
* **Chili Cheese Nachos:** Top the nachos with chili and cheese sauce for a hearty and satisfying meal.
* **Pulled Pork Nachos:** Use pulled pork instead of chicken for a tender and flavorful twist.
* **Supreme Nachos:** Load the nachos with ground beef, black beans, tomatoes, onions, sour cream, and guacamole.
* **Philly Cheesesteak Nachos:** Top with thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions and peppers, and cheese sauce.
* **Pizza Nachos:** Top the nachos with pizza sauce, pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, without toppings. This will vary greatly depending on the toppings you choose.)

* Calories: 600-800
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 40-50g
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g

## Storage Instructions

* **Leftover Nachos:** It’s best to eat the nachos immediately, as the chips will become soggy over time. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the nachos in the oven or microwave until heated through. Keep in mind that the chips may not be as crispy as they were originally.

## Final Thoughts

These Kickin’ Buffalo Chicken Nachos are the perfect way to spice up your next gathering or enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. With their bold flavors, customizable toppings, and easy preparation, they are sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare to indulge in a truly unforgettable nacho experience!

Enjoy! Let me know in the comments if you have any questions, or if you tried a different topping. I look forward to hearing what you think!