Buffalo Chicken Nacho Platter

Name: Buffalo Chicken Nacho Platter
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 1 bag tortilla chips; 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup diced green onions; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving); 1/4 cup ranch dressing (for drizzling)

Highlighted under: Party Table Recipes

I absolutely love hosting game day gatherings, and this Buffalo Chicken Nacho Platter has become my go-to snack. The combination of spicy shredded chicken, gooey cheese, and crunchy nachos creates a flavor explosion that everyone enjoys. Plus, it’s so easy to assemble! I can prep the ingredients in advance, making it a breeze to serve once my guests arrive. Whether you're watching the game or enjoying a casual get-together, this platter is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:33:57.920Z

When I first experimented with this Buffalo Chicken Nacho Platter, I was trying to combine my love for nachos with the intense flavors of buffalo chicken. The real trick is to use freshly cooked chicken coated in a homemade buffalo sauce, which elevates the dish beyond standard nachos. I discovered that layering the ingredients properly ensures every bite gets that perfect balance of heat and creaminess.

One of my favorite tips is to bake the nachos instead of microwaving them. This way, the cheese melts beautifully and everything crisps up, creating that perfect texture contrast. With a sprinkle of green onions and a drizzle of ranch dressing, this platter impresses both visually and flavor-wise!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Spicy buffalo flavor that’s irresistibly delicious
Loaded with cheese and toppings for maximum indulgence
Perfect for parties, game days, or movie nights

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The key to achieving the best flavor in your Buffalo Chicken Nacho Platter lies in the quality of the ingredients. Opt for fresh, high-quality tortilla chips that can hold up to the moisture of the toppings. I recommend using a brand that is thick and sturdy, as they are less likely to become soggy. Additionally, using freshly cooked chicken not only enhances the taste but also allows you to control the spice level by adjusting how much buffalo sauce you mix in.

For the buffalo sauce, you can choose a store-bought variety or make your own from scratch. A homemade version with hot sauce, melted butter, and a hint of garlic powder can elevate your nachos significantly. This way, you can customize the spice level to suit your palate. Remember, the balance of flavors is crucial, so don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasoning of the chicken mixture before layering it onto the nachos.

Baking Techniques

When it comes to baking your nachos, heat distribution is key to ensuring even melting of the cheese. I recommend placing the baking sheet on the center rack of your preheated oven to maintain consistent temperatures. Keep an eye on them around the 10-minute mark; the nachos should be bubbly and the cheese should have formed a delicious golden crust without burning. If you notice the edges darkening too quickly, you can lightly cover them with aluminum foil.

For a twist on the standard preparation, consider adding additional layers of ingredients before baking. You can intersperse black beans or jalapeños between the layers to add a savory kick and extra texture. Just be mindful not to overload the nachos, as too many toppings can lead to uneven cooking and soggy chips. Keeping a good balance of chips and toppings will ensure every bite is perfectly delightful.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Buffalo Chicken Nacho Platter:

For the Nachos

1 bag tortilla chips
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced green onions
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
1/4 cup ranch dressing (for drizzling)

Make sure to have some fresh toppings ready for garnish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Buffalo Chicken Nacho Platter:

Prepare Chicken

In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until fully coated.

Layer Nachos

On a baking sheet, spread out half of the tortilla chips, layer with half the buffalo chicken, and sprinkle with one cup of cheddar cheese. Repeat with the remaining chips, chicken, and cheese.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the nachos for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish

Once out of the oven, top the nachos with diced green onions and tomatoes. Drizzle with ranch dressing and serve with sour cream on the side.

Serve immediately and enjoy with friends!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using blue cheese crumbles as a topping.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to streamline your game day prep, the chicken can be shredded and mixed with buffalo sauce up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the nachos. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Just remember to give it a good stir before layering it onto your chips.

Leftover nachos can be tricky, as the chips may lose their crunch. To store, place any uneaten nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, I suggest using the oven at a low temperature of 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to help restore some of their crispiness, rather than popping them in the microwave, which can turn the chips soggy.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

To elevate your Buffalo Chicken Nacho Platter, consider setting up a toppings bar with a variety of options. In addition to the ranch dressing, sour cream, and fresh veggies, offer sliced avocados, jalapeños, and even pickled red onions. This interactive element allows guests to customize their plates, making the snack even more enjoyable as they mix and match flavors.

For drinks, pairing your nachos with refreshing beverages can enhance the experience. Try serving iced cold beers, which complement the spicy flavors perfectly, or offer a homemade lemonade for a sweet contrast to the heat. If you're catering to a crowd with different preferences, a mocktail option with fresh lime juice and sparkling water can be a delightful addition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds amazing flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken for black beans or sautéed veggies for a vegetarian option.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack are both excellent choices, but feel free to mix it up!