Pin A platter of Mango Salsa BBQ Chicken Nachos makes any night feel festive and fun. Layers of melty cheese, smoky BBQ chicken, and sweet mango salsa come together with crunchy tortilla chips for a crowd-pleaser that is as much about color as it is about bold flavor. This is my go-to for easy entertaining or a quick family meal when everyone needs a little pick-me-up around the table.
I first whipped up these nachos for a backyard get-together and they disappeared even before the second round of drinks. Now my friends ask for them by name every summer.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: Shred yours while still warm for juiciness or use a rotisserie for convenience
- BBQ sauce: A smoky sweet variety works best Check labels if gluten-free or watch out for sneaky additives
- Ripe mango: Look for a mango that gives slightly when pressed and has a fragrant aroma for best flavor in salsa
- Red onion: Choose one that feels solid and has a shiny tight skin It brings tang and crunch to the salsa
- Jalapeño: Choose a firm pepper for heat Remove seeds for a milder taste Leave some seeds in if you like it spicy
- Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and color Pick a glossy firm one
- Fresh cilantro: Brightens the salsa For max flavor use leaves and tender stems
- Lime juice: Use fresh for tanginess and to keep the salsa vibrant
- Tortilla chips: Opt for thick cut and sturdy chips to hold all the toppings Choose gluten-free if needed
- Shredded cheese: Monterey Jack melts beautifully for nachos but use cheddar for deeper flavor Grate it yourself for better melt and taste
- Black beans: Give a hearty boost Rinse well to remove any canning liquid
- Corn: Fresh or frozen corn adds a summery crunch Look for plump kernels
- Avocado: Optional but creamy and satisfying Make sure it yields slightly to gentle pressure so it is ripe
- Sour cream: Optional for a tangy finish Full-fat has the best texture
- Green onions: Fresh garnish for a mild bite Slice thin on the diagonal for presentation
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or about 200 degrees Celsius Make sure the oven rack is in the center position for even heat
- Prepare the BBQ Chicken:
- Combine shredded cooked chicken with BBQ sauce in a medium bowl Toss well so every strand is coated Let it sit while you prep the next steps This helps the flavors soak in
- Make the Mango Salsa:
- Dice mango red onion jalapeño and red bell pepper into uniform small pieces Chop the cilantro Squeeze in fresh lime juice and sprinkle with salt Mix everything gently so the mango holds its shape but flavors meld Let it sit at room temperature so the salsa gets juicy
- Layer the Nachos:
- Arrange half the tortilla chips on a large rimmed baking sheet or ovenproof platter Sprinkle half the BBQ chicken black beans corn and cheese evenly over the chips Top with the rest of the chips followed by the remaining chicken black beans corn and cheese Layering ensures every bite has plenty of toppings
- Bake to Melt the Cheese:
- Slide the assembled nachos into the oven Bake for about ten to twelve minutes The cheese should bubble and melt completely and the chips should turn slightly golden Watch closely so the chips do not burn
- Add Final Toppings:
- Remove from the oven Immediately spoon over the fresh mango salsa Scatter diced avocado and green onions all across the top Add small dollops of sour cream if you are using Serve these nachos while hot so the cheese stays gooey
Pin I always get excited watching everyone dive right in The mango salsa is my personal favorite because it adds that juicy fresh burst in every bite making these feel lighter than your usual loaded nachos There is nothing better than seeing my niece sneak extra mango pieces when she thinks nobody is looking
Storage Tips
Nachos are best enjoyed fresh but if you have leftovers store the chips and toppings separately if possible Reheat the chicken chips and cheese in a hot oven until everything crisps and melts again Add salsa and cold toppings just before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out mango for pineapple or even ripe peaches for a different fruit salsa Vegetarian friends can use pulled jackfruit or double up on black beans For dairy-free use a plant-based cheese and skip sour cream
Serving Suggestions
Serve these nachos piled high on a large platter straight from the oven Pair with a crisp salad and a citrusy drink to balance the richness I also love setting out extra salsa hot sauce or pickled jalapeños so everyone can customize
Cultural and Seasonal Inspiration
This recipe blends Tex-Mex traditions with tropical flair Inspired by summers when mangoes are at their juiciest I love the fusion of sweet fruit barbecue and gooey cheese It is my way to bring a little sunshine to any table especially during grilling season
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap in grilled corn cut fresh from the cob during summer Use roasted butternut squash cubes instead of corn in fall For winter citrus salsa feels bright in place of mango
Success Stories
The first time I served these at our neighborhood block party two pans were gone in minutes I get texts from friends for the mango salsa recipe every time Try it for your next gathering and watch them disappear
Freezer Meal Conversion
While nachos do not freeze well once assembled you can prepare the BBQ chicken and mango salsa ahead of time Store chicken in the freezer and salsa in the fridge so you can layer and bake fresh anytime
Pin Serve the nachos immediately for best texture and flavor. Enjoy every crunchy, vibrant bite while the cheese is still gooey.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use another fruit instead of mango?
Yes, substitute pineapple for mango to create a different tropical salsa twist without altering other ingredients.
- → What cheese is best for these nachos?
Monterey Jack or cheddar melt well, but smoked gouda or pepper jack add unique flavors and a bit of heat.
- → How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace chicken with pulled jackfruit or extra black beans for a hearty and satisfying meat-free variation.
- → Is this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortilla chips and BBQ sauce to keep this option suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- → What are good drink pairings?
A crisp lager or citrusy white wine complements the tangy salsa and smoky barbecue flavors beautifully.
- → Can I prepare parts ahead?
Yes, make the mango salsa and shred chicken in advance. Assemble chips and bake just before serving for freshness.