Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines the best parts of nachos and enchiladas, look no further than Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos. This delicious and easy to make dish brings together crispy tortilla chips, seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and all the flavors of enchiladas in a fun, shareable way. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as an appetizer for a party, this recipe offers comfort, spice, and crunch all in one. In this article, you’ll learn how to make this indulgent dish with tips on making the perfect nachos every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos are a satisfying, flavorful fusion of two classic dishes: nachos and enchiladas. What makes this dish truly special is how it layers textures and flavors from the crispy tortilla chips that act as the base to the tender chicken cooked in a rich enchilada sauce. The cheese, perfectly melted, binds all the ingredients together, creating the perfect bite every time.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can adjust the heat and spice to suit your preferences by adding more or less Cajun seasoning, chili powder, or jalapeños. You can even customize the toppings—add extra vegetables, or top with your favorite hot sauce. Whether you’re serving it for a quick dinner or a fun appetizer for a crowd, Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos are sure to please everyone at the table.

Recipe Details

The origins of nachos and enchiladas trace back to Mexican cuisine, and this dish is a creative fusion of both. Traditional nachos are made with crispy tortilla chips and melted cheese, while enchiladas feature soft tortillas rolled up and filled with a savory meat and sauce combination. Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos brings together these two favorites in a skillet, creating an easy-to-make dish that doesn’t require rolling or baking.

The chicken in this recipe is seasoned with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and other spices, giving it that signature enchilada flavor. Once the chicken is cooked, it’s layered with tortilla chips and topped with a generous amount of cheese before being baked until the cheese is golden and bubbly. The addition of toppings like diced tomatoes, cilantro, sour cream, and jalapeños make this dish even more flavorful and customizable to your tastes.

Nutritional Information for Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos

Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos are a filling and indulgent dish, offering a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. A typical serving provides around 350-450 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and portion size. The chicken offers lean protein, while the cheese contributes a rich, creamy texture and some fat. The tortilla chips provide carbs for energy, but you can opt for baked chips or a lighter alternative to reduce the fat content.

This dish also contains essential vitamins and minerals. The chicken provides B vitamins like niacin and B6, which support metabolism and muscle function. The spices, including chili powder and cumin, contain antioxidants that promote overall health. If you add toppings like tomatoes and avocado, they’ll provide additional vitamins and healthy fats. For a lighter version, you can reduce the cheese or use a low-fat sour cream alternative.

Ingredients for Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos

To make Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos, gather the following ingredients:

• For the chicken:
  • 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced, preferably rotisserie chicken)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the nachos:
  • 6 cups tortilla chips (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
  • 1 medium red onion, diced (optional)
  • 1 medium bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 1 cup sour cream (optional for topping)
  • Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
  • Sliced jalapeños (for garnish)
  • 1 medium tomato, diced (optional for topping)
  • Avocado (optional for garnish)

These ingredients are the perfect foundation for your Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos. The chicken provides protein and flavor, while the cheese adds creaminess. You can easily adapt the recipe to fit your taste preferences by changing up the toppings or using a different cheese blend.

Equipment Needed for Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos

To make Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos, you will need the following kitchen equipment:

• Skillet: A large, oven-safe skillet to cook the chicken and assemble the nachos.
• Mixing bowls: For mixing the chicken with the spices and enchilada sauce.
• Spoon or spatula: For stirring and combining the chicken mixture.
• Grater: For shredding the cheese, unless using pre-shredded cheese.
• Oven: To bake the nachos until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping the veggies and garnishes.

These tools are essential for assembling and cooking the dish quickly and efficiently, ensuring that each step goes smoothly.

Pro Tips for Success

To get the best results from your Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos, follow these pro tips:

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: Opt for rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor. It saves time and provides a delicious, tender base for the nachos.
2. Layer Chips Evenly: To make sure every chip is covered with cheese and chicken, spread the tortilla chips evenly in the skillet. This ensures a well-balanced bite every time.
3. Melt the Cheese Perfectly: Be sure to bake the nachos long enough for the cheese to melt completely and get bubbly. If the cheese isn’t melting properly, you can cover the skillet with foil for a few minutes.
4. Add Fresh Toppings After Baking: After baking, top your nachos with fresh ingredients like chopped cilantro, tomatoes, and avocado. These add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
5. Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If you have a smaller skillet, it’s better to divide the ingredients into two skillets rather than overcrowding the pan. This ensures that everything cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.

Instructions for Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos

• Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken and sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat through. Pour in the enchilada sauce and stir until the chicken is well-coated. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
• Assemble the Nachos: Spread a layer of tortilla chips evenly in an oven-safe skillet. Spoon the seasoned chicken mixture over the chips. Top with half of the shredded cheese. Add another layer of tortilla chips, followed by the remaining chicken and cheese.
• Bake the Nachos: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and garnish the nachos with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and avocado. Serve immediately with sour cream on the side.

Recipe Variations for Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos

• Vegetarian Nachos: Replace the chicken with black beans, pinto beans, or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a satisfying vegetarian version.
• Spicy Nachos: Add more chili powder, jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicier kick.
• Beef or Pork Nachos: Substitute the chicken with ground beef or pulled pork for a different flavor profile.
• Cheesy Nachos: Use a blend of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack for a richer, more complex flavor.

Storage & Serving Guide

Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos are best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the nachos in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted again.

Serve your nachos with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. They pair wonderfully with a refreshing drink like iced tea or margaritas, making for a well-rounded meal.

FAQs About Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the chicken and assemble the nachos ahead of time. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use a different protein?
   Absolutely! Swap the chicken for shrimp, beef, or even sausage for a different twist.
3. How can I make these nachos spicier?
   Increase the amount of chili powder, add diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture, or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
4. Can I make this dish without cheese?
   Yes, you can make it dairy-free by omitting the cheese or using dairy-free alternatives.
5. What should I serve with these nachos?
   Serve with a side of Mexican rice, a fresh salad, or some extra guacamole for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Skillet Chicken Enchiladas Nachos are the perfect combination of comfort food and bold flavors. With the crispy tortilla chips, seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, this dish is both satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or as a party appetizer, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Follow the tips and instructions provided, and you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.

Print