Microwave Magic: Chunky Chicken Nachos in Minutes!

Chunky Chicken Nachos.

Yields: 2 servings

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 3-5 minutes (depending on microwave power)

Ingredients:

• Protein:

  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)1

• Base:

  • 6-8 oz. tortilla chips (sturdy, wide chips are best)

• Cheese:

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend

• Toppings (Choose your favorites):

  • 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained

  • 1/2 cup canned corn, drained

  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, sliced

  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • 1 ripe avocado, diced or sliced

  • 1/2 cup salsa (your preferred type)

  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

  • Optional: Taco seasoning.

    
    

Equipment:

• Large microwave-safe plate or shallow dish

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Knife and cutting board
  

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken (if needed):

• If using raw chicken, cook it thoroughly using your preferred method (boiling, baking, or pan-frying). Once cooked, shred or dice it.

• If using rotisserie chicken simply shred or dice the chicken.

• Optional: If you would like to add taco seasoning to the chicken, lightly coat the chicken with your favorite taco seasoning.
  

2. Assemble the Base Layer:

• Spread the tortilla chips evenly across the microwave-safe plate, creating a single layer. Avoid overcrowding, as this will prevent even heating.
  

3. Add the Chicken and Beans/Corn (Optional):

• Distribute the cooked chicken evenly over the chips.

• If using beans or corn, sprinkle them evenly over the chips and chicken.
  

4. Add the Cheese:

• Cover the chips, chicken, and any added beans/corn completely with the shredded cheese. Ensure an even layer for consistent melting.
  

5. Microwave:

• Place the plate in the microwave.

• Microwave on high power for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Cooking time will vary depending on your microwave's wattage.

• It is best to start with 3 minutes, then add 30 second increments as needed to prevent burning.

• Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  

6. Add Cold Toppings:

• Remove the plate from the microwave using oven mitts, as it will be hot.

• Immediately add the cold toppings: jalapeños, red onion, cilantro, avocado, salsa, and sour cream (or any combination you prefer).
  

7. Serve Immediately:

• Serve the microwave chunky chicken nachos immediately while the cheese is still warm and melted.
  

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the chicken or cheese for extra heat.

• Vegetarian option: Omit the chicken and add extra beans, corn, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions.

• Layering: For a more layered nacho experience, create multiple layers of chips, chicken, cheese, and toppings.

• Prevent soggy chips: Avoid overloading the plate with too many wet toppings. Add salsa and sour cream just before serving.

• Cheese melting: For even melting, use pre-shredded cheese or shred your own. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can slightly affect melting.

• Microwave wattage: Microwave wattages vary. Adjust cooking time accordingly. If your microwave is high wattage, watch closely and reduce cook time.

• Individual servings: For individual servings, use smaller microwave-safe plates or bowls. This will allow for better control over portion sizes.

• Guacamole: Guacamole is a great addition to the top of these nachos.