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There’s something inherently magical about gathering around a table filled with delicious food, and for many, that magic often comes alive when nachos are involved. I vividly recall the first time I made nachos for my family. It was a rainy Saturday afternoon, and I was determined to create a comforting dish that would warm both our hearts and our bellies. Those layers of crispy tortilla chips, gooey melted cheese, and savory toppings were an instant hit, igniting a love for nachos that has only grown over the years.

Cheesy Chicken Nacho Bake

Bring comfort and joy to your next gathering with a delicious Cheesy Chicken Nacho Bake. This hearty twist on classic nachos layers crispy tortilla chips with shredded chicken, flavorful spices, and melty cheese. Perfect for game nights, family dinners, or cozy movie marathons, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Prepare it in advance for a stress-free meal that everyone will love. Dive into layers of flavor and enjoy a dish that brings people together!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)

4 cups tortilla chips (medium thickness)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)

1 small red onion, finely diced

1 small jalapeño, sliced (optional, for heat)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot depending on preference)

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Sour cream (for serving)

Avocado slices (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, red onion, jalapeño (if using), garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

      Assemble the Nachos: In a large baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches), spread half of the tortilla chips in an even layer at the bottom. Spoon half of the chicken mixture over the chips and drizzle half of the salsa on top. Then sprinkle half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.

        Layer Again: Repeat the layers with the remaining tortilla chips, followed by the rest of the chicken mixture, the remaining salsa, and finish with the last of the cheeses on top.

          Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.

            Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. Serve hot with dollops of sour cream and slices of avocado on the side.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings