Thai Basil Nachos Fusion (Printable version)

Savory ground chicken, veggies, and cheese over crisp chips with a tangy Thai basil sauce—shareable and flavorful.

# List of ingredients:

→ Protein

01 - 9 oz ground chicken or turkey
02 - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

→ Vegetables

03 - 1 small red onion, finely diced
04 - 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
06 - 2 spring onions, sliced
07 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered

→ Cheese

08 - 5.3 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
09 - 3.5 oz shredded cheddar cheese

→ Sauce

10 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
11 - 1 tablespoon fish sauce
12 - 1 tablespoon lime juice
13 - 1 tablespoon brown sugar
14 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
15 - 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional)
16 - 1/2 cup fresh Thai basil leaves, chopped

→ Chips

17 - 5.3 oz tortilla chips (gluten-free if required)

→ Garnish

18 - Fresh Thai basil leaves
19 - Lime wedges

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
02 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring and breaking up meat until browned.
03 - Add red onion, diced red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until vegetables are softened.
04 - Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and sriracha. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until flavors meld. Remove from heat, then mix in chopped Thai basil leaves.
05 - Arrange tortilla chips on a large baking sheet or ovenproof platter. Evenly distribute the chicken mixture on top, then layer with cherry tomatoes, jalapeños, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese.
06 - Transfer to the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling.
07 - Remove from oven. Sprinkle with sliced spring onions and extra Thai basil. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses simple market finds you probably already have
  • Quick to prepare so you get that wow factor fast
  • Versatile and customizable for spice or dietary needs
  • Brings together zesty Thai flavors with comfort nachos
02 -
  • Great for gluten-free diets if you pick the right chips
  • Loaded with real protein and fiber
  • Easy to freeze leftovers or reheat for next-day snacking
03 -
  • I always use freshly shredded cheese not pre-shredded. Pre-shredded does not melt as nicely and fresh blocks have better flavor
  • High heat is key for bubbling cheese without soggy bottoms
  • Toast the chips briefly before adding toppings if extra crisp is your goal