Loaded BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Nachos Recipe

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Loaded BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Nachos Recipe

There’s something wildly comforting about a plate piled high with cheesy, smoky, spicy nachos. But when you swap the classic tortilla chips for crispy tater tots and top them with juicy BBQ chicken, bacon, and melty cheese “Loaded BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Nachos Recipe – crispy tots, cheesy BBQ chicken & bacon, the ultimate comfort food for any occasion!”—oh, mamma mia—you’re in comfort food heaven!

This recipe is one that’s become a staple during my family’s game nights. It all started when I was experimenting with leftovers from a backyard BBQ and some frozen tots from the freezer—just like Nonna used to say, “Never let good food go to waste!” The result? A crave-worthy, loaded nacho platter that gets devoured every single time.

Let’s dive in and make this flavor-packed American twist on nachos!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bold & Flavorful: Smoky BBQ chicken, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and spicy jalapeños—all the good stuff.

  • Easy to Make: Perfect for game day, family dinners, or parties.

  • Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or keep it classic.

  • Crowd-Pleaser: Serves 6 and disappears fast!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the best Loaded BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Nachos:

  • ¾ bag frozen Tater Tots (about 18 oz)

  • 3 Chicken Thighs, boneless, skinless

  • 2½ strips Bacon, chopped

  • 1 tsp Chili Powder

  • 1 tbsp Garlic Powder

  • ½ tsp Kosher Salt

  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded

  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded

  • ¼ cup Red Onion, finely diced

  • 2 tbsp Jalapeños, sliced (pickled or fresh)

  • ½ cup BBQ Sauce (your favorite brand)

How to make Loaded BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Nachos Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 6

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. Season chicken thighs with chili powder, garlic powder, and kosher salt.

  3. Bake or pan-fry chicken until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F). Shred and toss with BBQ sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

  1. Cook the chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it turns crispy.

  2. Drain on paper towels and set aside.

Step 3: Bake the Tater Tots

  1. Spread tater tots on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Step 4: Assemble the Nachos

  1. Once tots are crispy, reduce oven temp to 375°F.

  2. In an oven-safe dish, layer half the tots, then add half the BBQ chicken, bacon, cheddar, mozzarella, red onion, and jalapeños.

  3. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Step 5: Bake to Melt

  1. Bake loaded nachos for 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and melted.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

  • Top with extra BBQ sauce, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro if desired.

  • Serve hot and dig in!

Tips & Variations

  • Vegetarian Twist: Skip the chicken and bacon, and add black beans or jackfruit.

  • Extra Heat: Add hot sauce or swap jalapeños for habaneros.

  • Cheese Choices: Try pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or a smoked gouda blend.

Serving Suggestions

Loaded BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Nachos

Pair this dish with:

  • A cold fizzy soda

  • Fresh garden salad for a lighter balance

  • Corn on the cob or coleslaw on the side

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut—just shred the meat, toss it in your favorite BBQ sauce, and you’re ready to go.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Sort of. You can prep all the toppings ahead (cook the chicken, bacon, and dice the veggies), but for the best texture, bake the tater tots and assemble the nachos just before serving.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Use whatever you enjoy or already have in your kitchen—flexibility is the key. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, smoked gouda, or even a nacho cheese sauce would be delicious.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Skip the chicken and bacon, and replace them with sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or even grilled jackfruit for a smoky twist.

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

You sure can! Cook the tater tots in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway. Then assemble and melt the cheese in a regular oven or under the broiler.

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Conclusion

This Loaded BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Nachos Recipe is the ultimate mash-up of backyard BBQ and indulgent comfort food. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether you’re watching the big game, throwing a casual party, or just looking to treat yourself to something truly satisfying.

Every bite is a crunchy, cheesy, smoky explosion of flavor—made with everyday ingredients and no fancy kitchen tools required. From the crispy tater tot base to the melty cheese topping and that irresistible BBQ chicken, it’s a crowd-pleaser that hits all the right notes.

I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine.

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