The Ultimate Gluten Free Grilled BBQ Chicken Nachos | Easy Party Appetizer
The Ultimate Grilled BBQ Chicken Nachos
Bring the taste of summer to your table with these gluten free grilled BBQ chicken nachos! Loaded with juicy grilled chicken, melted cheese, smoky barbecue sauce, and fresh toppings, this recipe is perfect for parties, game days, or a fun family dinner. Every bite delivers a crispy, cheesy, and flavor-packed experience and yes, it’s completely gluten free!
Table of Contents
What barbecue sauces are gluten free?
Most classic barbecue sauces can be made gluten free, but always check the label. Some contain soy sauce or malt vinegar, which may have gluten. Gluten free BBQ sauces to try include:
- Sweet Baby Ray’s Gluten Free Original
- Stubbs Original BBQ Sauce
- Kinder’s Mild BBQ Sauce
- Primal Kitchen Classic BBQ Sauce

Always double-check the packaging, since recipes can change over time.
Are tortilla chips gluten free?
Yes — most tortilla chips are naturally gluten free, since they’re made from corn, oil, and salt. However, if they’re fried in shared oil with gluten products, there’s a risk of cross-contamination. To be safe, choose certified gluten free brands like:
- Late July Organic Tortilla Chips
- Siete Grain-Free Tortilla Chips
- Food Should Taste Good Multigrain Chips
Always check for the “gluten free” label before buying.
Topping Ideas:/Ingredients
Take your nachos to the next level with these fun topping combinations:
- Freshly sliced jalapeños for a little heat.
- Diced avocado or guacamole for creaminess.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt drizzle.
- Pickled onions for tangy crunch.
- A sprinkle of cilantro and green onions for freshness.
- Optional: crumbled bacon for extra smoky flavor!

Step-By-Step Photos and Directions:
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect gluten free BBQ chicken nachos on the grill.
- Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a brush of gluten free BBQ sauce. Grill for about 6–8 minutes per side or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Remove and slice thinly.

- Prepare the Chips:
Lay a sheet of foil or a grill-safe tray. Spread out the tortilla chips in an even layer.

- Add the Toppings:
Scatter grilled chicken pieces evenly over the chips. Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, followed by sliced jalapeños, onions, and your favorite toppings.

- Grill the Nachos:
Place the tray on the grill, close the lid, and cook for 5–7 minutes — just until the cheese melts and starts bubbling.

- Finish & Serve:
Remove carefully, drizzle more BBQ sauce, sprinkle chopped cilantro, and enjoy warm!

Can you grill frozen chicken?
It’s not recommended to grill frozen chicken directly — it won’t cook evenly and could dry out. Always thaw chicken completely in the refrigerator before grilling to ensure even cooking and the perfect juicy texture.
More Gluten-Free Appetizers:
Looking for more fun gluten free snacks and appetizers? Try these next!
- Gluten Free Chicken Wings
- Crispy Gluten Free Zucchini chips
Love This Recipe?
If you loved these gluten free BBQ chicken nachos, leave a comment below and share it with friends! Every review helps other gluten free cooks find delicious recipes.

BBQ Gluten Free Chicken Nachos
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Foil or grill-safe tray
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients 1x2x3x
- 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
- 6 cups gluten free tortilla chips
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup gluten free BBQ sauce
- ¼ cup sliced jalapeños
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- Optional: sour cream or guacamole for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the grill and lightly grease the grates or tray.
- Season and grill chicken until golden brown, then slice thinly.
- Layer chips, chicken, cheese, onions, and jalapeños on the tray.
- Grill for 5–7 minutes until cheese melts and edges crisp up.
- Top with BBQ sauce, cilantro, and serve immediately.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for best results. If you prefer a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or use hickory BBQ sauce.
SPECIAL NOTE
Always confirm that your BBQ sauce and chips are certified gluten free to avoid hidden sources of gluten from flavorings or shared processing.
Nutrition
Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 420
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 34g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 8g
Nutrition Disclaimer
Nutrition data is approximate and provided as a courtesy. Actual values may vary depending on brands and preparation methods.