Craving nachos but trying to eat healthier? This recipe delivers all the cheesy, crunchy goodness of classic nachos, but with a lighter, healthier twist! Forget the greasy spoon – this homemade version is surprisingly easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun, satisfying weekend meal, these healthy chicken nachos are sure to become a family favorite. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded (you can grill, bake, or use rotisserie chicken for extra convenience)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or your favorite low-fat cheese)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (a healthier alternative to sour cream)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 10-12 baked tortilla chips (look for low-sodium options)
- Optional toppings: salsa, jalapeños, hot sauce
Instructions:
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Prepare the chicken: If using raw chicken breast, cook it until fully cooked through. You can bake, grill, or pan-fry it. Once cooked, shred the chicken into small pieces.
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced red bell pepper and red onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until slightly softened.
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Season the chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
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Assemble the nachos: Spread a layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet or large platter. Top with the chicken and vegetable mixture, black beans, and corn.
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Add the cheese and bake: Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the nachos. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve and enjoy: Remove the nachos from the oven and top with the diced avocado, Greek yogurt, and cilantro. Serve immediately with your favorite salsa, jalapeños, or hot sauce on the side.
Tips & Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture for extra heat.
- Veggie boost: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Protein power: Swap the chicken for ground turkey or beef for a different flavor profile.
- Make it a sheet pan meal: For an even easier cleanup, arrange all ingredients directly on a baking sheet and bake until the cheese is melted.
- Customize your toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Consider adding pickled onions, different types of cheese, or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields about 4 servings. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. This is an estimate and may vary. Always consult a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional nachos, making it a perfect choice for those looking for delicious and satisfying healthy meals without sacrificing flavor. It's a fantastic quick dinner idea that's both easy and enjoyable to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Enjoy your homemade, healthy chicken nachos!