Chili’s Chicken Fajita Nachos (Copycat Recipe)
Indulge in the ultimate, flavor-packed nachos inspired by Chili’s, featuring crispy tortilla chips loaded with tender chicken strips, sautéed onions and peppers, a blend of melted Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses, and a spicy kick from fresh jalapeños. These nachos come together beautifully in under an hour, perfect for a satisfying lunch or a hearty snack. Serve them with shredded lettuce, chunky salsa, and a dollop of sour cream to make every bite refreshing and balanced.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tortilla chips | 16 oz | Choose a sturdy, thick variety |
| Boneless chicken breast | 1 piece | Cut into thin strips |
| Bell pepper | 1, sliced | Use red, green, or mixed |
| Monterey Jack cheese | 1 cup, shredded | |
| Mild Cheddar cheese | 1 cup, shredded | |
| Jalapeños | 1, sliced | Adjust for spice preference |
| Shredded lettuce | 1 cup | Optional for garnish |
| Thick & chunky salsa | 1/2 cup | For serving |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup | For serving |
Nutrition Per Serving
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1440.3 |
| Fat | 75.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 20.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 107.4 mg |
| Sodium | 1655.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 150.2 g |
| Fiber | 14.4 g |
| Sugars | 9 g |
| Protein | 47.9 g |
Servings: 2 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
- Start by sautéing the chicken strips with sliced onions and bell peppers in a hot skillet, using the fajita seasoning mix for flavor. Stir frequently to ensure the chicken cooks evenly, and the vegetables become soft and fragrant.
- Once cooked through, transfer the mixture to a bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Arrange the Nachos
- Spread a generous layer of tortilla chips in a circular pattern on a large, ovenproof or microwave-safe plate. This ensures even distribution and maximum flavor in every bite.
- Evenly layer the cooked chicken, sautéed onions, and peppers over the tortilla chips.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Jalapeños
- Sprinkle both Monterey Jack and mild Cheddar cheeses over the chicken and vegetables, covering them evenly.
- Add a few slices of fresh jalapeños on top for a kick of heat. Feel free to adjust the quantity to your spice preference.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
- Place the nacho platter in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake just until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can microwave the nachos on medium power until the cheese melts, checking every 30 seconds to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Once the cheese is melted, remove the nachos from the oven or microwave.
- Place a small mound of shredded lettuce in the center for a fresh, crunchy garnish.
- Top with a generous dollop of salsa and sour cream. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a spoonful of guacamole on top.
Enjoying Your Nachos
These Chicken Fajita Nachos are best enjoyed hot, with the cheese still gooey and the flavors vibrant. Pair them with your favorite refreshing drink for a complete meal or an impressive appetizer that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
