Looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to make? Try these Spicy Cheesy Blackened Chicken Nachos. This recipe features cubed chicken breasts seasoned with Cajun spices, garlic, chili powder, and hot sauce, all cooked to perfection. Sautéed with onions, tomatoes, corn, and jalapeños, this dish is then topped with shredded pepper jack cheese and salsa. Broil it until the cheese is melted and serve it with tortilla chips, sour cream, and fresh basil for a deliciously spicy meal that’s sure to be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients
For these delicious Spicy Cheesy Blackened Chicken Nachos, you'll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: 3 large chicken breasts, cubed. Chicken breast is lean and tender, perfect for absorbing the flavors of the spices.
- Cajun Seasoning: To taste. This seasoning blend typically includes paprika, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, providing a bold, spicy kick.
- Garlic Powder: 1 tablespoon. Adds a rich, savory depth to the chicken.
- Chili Powder: 1 tablespoon. Contributes a mild heat and a smoky flavor.
- Red Chile Flakes: 1 tablespoon. Adds extra heat and a touch of color to the dish.
- Hot Sauce: 1 tablespoon. Enhances the spicy profile of the chicken. Use your favorite brand for the best results.
- Onion: 1 onion, diced. Provides a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the spicy chicken.
- Roma Tomatoes: 5, diced. These tomatoes are firm and flavorful, adding a fresh taste and juicy texture to the nachos.
- Corn: 1 (15.25-ounce) can. Adds sweetness and a satisfying crunch. Drain the can before adding to the mixture.
- Jalapeño Peppers: 2, diced. These peppers add an additional layer of heat and a bright, crisp flavor.
- Pepper Jack Cheese: 1 ½ cups, shredded. This cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture with a bit of a spicy bite.
- Salsa: To taste. Use your favorite salsa for topping the nachos, adding a zesty and refreshing finish.
Garnishes:
- Tortilla Chips: Essential for serving, providing the perfect crispy base for the nachos.
- Sour Cream: Adds a cool, creamy contrast to the spicy ingredients.
- Fresh Basil: Optional, for a fresh, herbaceous garnish that brightens the dish.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven Broiler
Set your oven broiler to high. This step is crucial for achieving a beautifully melted and slightly charred finish on the nachos. Ensure the oven rack is positioned about 6 inches from the broiler element.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, chili powder, red chile flakes, and hot sauce. Toss the chicken until it's evenly coated with the spices. This seasoning mix will give the chicken a bold, spicy flavor that's essential for this dish.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken cubes. Cook the chicken for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). To avoid overcrowding, cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add diced onion, diced roma tomatoes, canned corn (drained), and diced jalapeño peppers. Sprinkle with additional Cajun seasoning to taste. Sauté the vegetables over medium-high heat until they are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a deliciously smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the nachos.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Vegetables
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir everything together until well combined. This ensures that the chicken and vegetables are evenly distributed for maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Salsa
Sprinkle the shredded pepper jack cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Spoon salsa over the top to taste. The cheese will melt into the dish, creating a rich, creamy texture, while the salsa adds a fresh, zesty kick.
Step 7: Broil the Nachos
Place the skillet under the preheated broiler. Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the nachos are slightly charred. Keep a close eye on the skillet to prevent burning.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish the nachos with tortilla chips, dollops of sour cream, and fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately, ensuring each portion includes a bit of chicken, vegetables, melted cheese, and crispy tortilla chips.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Tips
This Spicy Cheesy Blackened Chicken Nachos dish is best served hot and fresh from the oven. Here are some tips to elevate your serving experience:
- Individual Portions: Serve the nachos on individual plates to ensure everyone gets a balanced mix of chicken, vegetables, and melted cheese.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces on the side, such as guacamole, salsa verde, or a creamy queso dip, to complement the spicy flavors of the nachos.
- Fresh Garnishes: Fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and lime wedges add a burst of color and freshness to the dish.
- Serving Platter: If serving as an appetizer or party dish, transfer the nachos to a large, heated serving platter to keep them warm longer.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, follow these storage tips to maintain the quality of your Spicy Cheesy Blackened Chicken Nachos:
- Refrigeration: Allow the nachos to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the texture of the tortilla chips may soften over time.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the nachos on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chips soggy.
- Freezing: While not ideal due to potential texture changes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture separately from the chips and cheese. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and assembling with fresh chips and cheese.
Helpful Notes
Here are some additional tips and variations to make this dish even more enjoyable:
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder and red chile flakes. For an extra kick, add more hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
- Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend cheese work well in this recipe.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein like black beans or tofu for a vegetarian version of these nachos.
- Quotes from Chefs: Renowned chefs often highlight the importance of fresh ingredients and bold flavors in creating memorable dishes. For instance, Chef Rick Bayless emphasizes using high-quality spices and fresh vegetables to elevate traditional recipes.
With these tips and variations, your Spicy Cheesy Blackened Chicken Nachos are sure to be a hit at any gathering!
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