Set-It-and-Forget-It Crockpot Chicken Nachos
The smell of savory chicken mingling with zesty taco seasoning fills the air. The sight of warm, bubbling cheese cascading over crispy tortilla chips is simply irresistible. Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by creamy melted cheese and tender chicken that practically melts in your mouth. Imagine gathering around the table with friends or family, everyone digging into a plate of these Set-It-and-Forget-It Crockpot Chicken Nachos. The laughter and shared stories create a lively backdrop as you enjoy this fun and easy meal.
Table of Contents

As the sun sets on a busy day or during a spirited game day, these nachos beckon with warmth and comfort. Reminiscing about childhood gatherings and spontaneous parties, nachos have always been a family favorite that brings people together. It’s a dish that invites joy and celebration with minimal effort, making it perfect for any occasion! So grab your crockpot, and let’s create something delicious together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic while you enjoy your day.
- Irresistible Flavor: Tender chicken, vibrant salsa, and melty cheese come together for a taste explosion.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: These nachos are not just tasty; they look like a party on a plate!
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for game day snacks, a hearty lunch, or a fun dinner with friends.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily make it gluten-free by checking chili ingredients and using gluten-free chips.

Ingredients You’ll Need
-
3-4 chicken breasts: The star of our dish, these lean cuts provide a tender and juicy base for the nachos. If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great alternative.
-
1 packet taco seasoning: This adds the signature taco flavor and spices to the dish. You can also make your own mix if you prefer a custom blend.
-
16 ounces salsa: Choose your favorite salsa for an extra kick! Fresh salsa enhances the flavors, but jarred works perfectly if you’re in a hurry.
-
15.25 oz. can of whole kernel corn, drained: Sweet corn adds a nice crunch and texture. Frozen corn can also be used; just toss it in without thawing.
-
15.25 oz. can of black beans, drained and rinsed: These add protein and heartiness; feel free to substitute with pinto or kidney beans if desired.
-
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The cheese is essential for that comforting gooeyness. A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack can also elevate the flavor.
-
2-3 roma tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add brightness and freshness to the rich nachos. Other types like cherry tomatoes also work well.
-
2 jalapeños: For a touch of heat! Remove the seeds if you prefer milder nachos or use pickled jalapeños for a tangy twist.
-
About 11 oz. tortilla chips: The crispy foundation for our nachos; thicker chips hold up better under toppings. Consider homemade tortilla chips for delicious upgrades.
How to Make Set-It-and-Forget-It Crockpot Chicken Nachos
Place Chicken & Seasoning: Begin by placing the chicken breasts in the crockpot. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated for consistent flavor. Pour the salsa on top, creating a flavorful bath. Set it on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s a great way to have a no-fuss meal ready when the day gets busy.
Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken using tongs and place it on a cutting board. Shred the chicken with two forks until it’s nice and fluffy. This step is essential for mixing it back into the juices from the crockpot, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the nachos from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This method allows for even cooking and easy serving later.
Layer the Tortilla Chips: Spread the tortilla chips in an even layer across the prepared baking sheet. The goal is to cover the pan but leave enough space for toppings, so every chip gets the flavor and love it deserves.
Add Chicken & Toppings: Spoon the shredded chicken evenly over the chips. Then, add drained corn and rinsed black beans to your heart’s content. The combination of ingredients creates delicious bites and colorful presentation.
Cheese it Up: Generously sprinkle shredded cheese all over the nachos. Don’t be shy; this is what turns them into mouthwatering treats! Aim for an even distribution for maximum melty goodness.
Broil Until Bubbly: Place the baking sheet under your oven’s broiler. Keep a close eye on it, as this should only take 2-5 minutes! Watch for the cheese to melt and bubble, turning a beautiful golden color. It’s where the magic happens!
Top with Fresh Ingredients: While the nachos are sizzling hot, dice the roma tomatoes and slice the jalapeños, removing the seeds if you desire less heat. Scatter them generously over the melted cheese for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Serve & Enjoy: Once everything is beautifully assembled, get ready to serve! Grab a plate, scoop a little of this and that, and embrace the deliciousness of your **Set-It-and-Forget-It Crockpot Chicken Nachos**. Enjoy every crunchy, cheesy bite!

Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover nachos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours, then transfer to the fridge for about 3 days. When freezing, you can store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, just until warmed through. Note that the texture may change, so you might want to add a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating to refresh the gooey factor.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid sogginess by serving the nachos immediately, or keep toppings separate until you’re ready to eat.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let shredded chicken rest for a few minutes before mixing it with juices for optimal texture.
- For a smokier flavor, add some smoked paprika to the chicken before cooking.
- Experiment with additional toppings like sliced olives or a drizzle of sour cream to customize your nachos.
These Set-It-and-Forget-It Crockpot Chicken Nachos serve up satisfying flavor and convenience, making them an easy go-to for sharing. Whether you keep it classic or experiment with new toppings, creativity in the kitchen is always welcomed! Now, roll up your sleeves and prepare to bring a platter of joy to your table!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts; just make sure to add an additional hour to the cooking time. They’ll still turn out flavorful and tender, thanks to the slow cooking process.
What can I substitute for black beans?
If you’re not a fan of black beans, pinto beans or even chickpeas can be fantastic substitutes. They offer similar texture and protein without compromising the flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of these nachos?
Yes, for a vegetarian variant, you can replace the chicken with more beans or roasted vegetables. Adding extra cheese or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can give you that delicious savory flavor.
Can I prepare this nacho dish in advance?
You can prep ingredients ahead of time! Just store the chicken, salsa, and spices in the crockpot the night before. In the morning, all you need to do is set it to cook. Assemble the nachos when you’re ready to serve!
PrintMore Lunch Recipes
- Creamy Chicken and Avocado Salad with Lime Yogurt Dressing
- Sticky Panfried Garlic Lime Tofu
- Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Gnocchi
- Dump-and-Go Crockpot Chicken and Gravy
- Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cheesecake
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card

Set-It-and-Forget-It Crockpot Chicken Nachos
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Set-It-and-Forget-It Crockpot Chicken Nachos offer irresistible flavors with minimal preparation. Featuring tender chicken, vibrant salsa, and melted cheese, they are perfect for quick meals or gatherings. Enjoy this easy homemade comfort food that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 3–4 chicken breasts
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 16 ounces salsa
- 15.25 oz. can of whole kernel corn, drained
- 15.25 oz. can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2–3 roma tomatoes
- 2 jalapeños
- About 11 oz. tortilla chips
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in crockpot and sprinkle with taco seasoning.
- Pour salsa over the chicken and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the cooked chicken with two forks and mix back into the juices.
- Preheat oven and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread tortilla chips on the baking sheet.
- Layer shredded chicken, corn, black beans, and cheese over the chips.
- Broil in the oven until cheese is bubbly and golden (2-5 minutes).
- Top with diced tomatoes and jalapeños before serving.
Notes
For a gluten-free option, check chili ingredients and use gluten-free chips.
Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Serve immediately to avoid sogginess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 750
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 45g
- Cholesterol: 110mg





