Paradise Chicken Nachos with Tropical Salsa

Tropical Chicken Nachos are a deliciously simple sheet pan nacho recipe, served with a Tropical Salsa that will have you feeling like you are in the islands.

Get ready to transport your taste buds to a sun-drenched beach with this incredible recipe for Tropical Chicken Nachos with Homemade Tropical Salsa! For months, I’ve been bursting with excitement to unveil this culinary gem, a dish so vibrant and flavorful it captures the very essence of a Caribbean getaway. Imagine succulent chicken, marinated in exotic spices, piled high on crisp tortilla chips with melted cheese, and crowned with a refreshing, zesty fruit salsa. This isn’t just another nacho recipe; it’s an experience designed to make every bite feel like a mini-vacation.

Forget your ordinary sheet pan nachos. Today, we’re giving this classic snack a spectacular tropical makeover, infusing it with authentic island flavors. The secret lies in a special spice rub and an exquisite sauce, both hailing from the Caribbean, that elevate humble chicken nachos into a gourmet delight. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together, a game day feast, or simply craving a taste of paradise at home, these nachos are guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

This post is proudly sponsored by Spice Isle Sauces. All opinions and the profound love for their exceptional products are entirely my own. We only share what we genuinely adore!

Contents

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When it comes to my ultimate favorite snack foods, especially for events like tailgating, nachos consistently reign supreme. What’s not to adore about a generous platter of crispy tortilla chips, generously smothered in gooey, melted cheese? Add some perfectly seasoned meat, and if you’re like me, a vibrant medley of fresh peppers and a dollop of zesty salsa, and you have a dish that’s simply irresistible. Nachos are the ultimate comfort food, a communal dish that brings people together, and a canvas for endless flavor creativity.

So, when Steve and Heidi, the visionary founders of Spice Isle Sauces, approached me to craft a show-stopping, tailgate-worthy recipe, my culinary imagination immediately sparked. While many ideas came to mind, I kept returning to the undeniable appeal of nachos. I envisioned transforming this classic into something extraordinary, a dish that not only satisfies but also transports you to a tropical paradise with every single bite.

Pin This Recipe for Later: Tropical Chicken Nachos!

Indeed, when it comes to the perfect game day spread or a casual weekend gathering, nachos are always the winning choice. Here in Nebraska, and across the nation, football season is a serious affair, and our game-day snacks are treated with the utmost respect. We crave something more than just basic fare; we demand a recipe that truly stands out. My goal was to create a nacho experience that would completely blow you away – a dish equally enjoyable from the comfort of your living room couch during an exciting game, or as a vibrant centerpiece prepared right on your tailgate grill outside the stadium.

These Tropical Chicken Nachos are precisely that – they are anything but basic. Infused with exotic flavors and a touch of island magic, they promise a culinary adventure far beyond your usual expectations. Get ready for a burst of sunshine and savory goodness!

This exceptional nacho recipe leverages two star products from Spice Isle Sauces: their Tropical Seasoning Rub and Tropical Tamarind Sauce. The resulting flavor combination is truly unparalleled, a symphony of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that are unlike anything you’ve experienced before. With every bite, you’ll almost hear the gentle rustle of palm trees and feel the warm island breezes, even if you’re nestled right here in the heartland of America.

Discover the Story Behind Spice Isle Sauces!

You might be wondering how Steve and Heidi Nolan, residents of Lincoln, Nebraska, came to create and market such authentic Caribbean sauces and rubs. Their journey is a testament to passion, travel, and a love for vibrant flavors.

Like many avid adventurers, Steve and Heidi share a deep love for travel, frequently exploring the breathtaking islands of the Caribbean. Among their cherished destinations, Providenciales in Turks and Caicos holds a special place – a true bucket-list locale that epitomizes tropical beauty and culinary richness.

On November 1, 2013, their dream took a tangible form when Steve and Heidi opened their very own island venture: the Crackpot Kitchen Restaurant, situated on the stunning island of Providenciales in Turks and Caicos. It was the realization of a long-held aspiration, bringing their culinary vision to life in a place they adored.

Building on their restaurant’s success, November 2014 marked another significant milestone. They began bottling and selling their inaugural specialty product, the now-famous Crackpot Kitchen Tropical Tamarind BBQ Sauce. Sold exclusively at their restaurant, the sauce quickly garnered immense popularity among both locals and visiting tourists. Demand soared, making it challenging to keep up with orders from grocery stores and gift shops across the island. The sheer volume of production became a happy but demanding challenge.

To meet this growing demand and expand their reach, Steve and Heidi collaborated with a production company just outside of Memphis, Tennessee, in January 2015. This partnership allowed them to produce their beloved sauce in the United States. While the original Crackpot Kitchen sauce has since evolved, it paved the way for an exciting expansion of their product line, bringing even more authentic Caribbean flavors to kitchens far and wide.

Explore the Diverse Flavor Collection of Spice Isle Sauces and Seasoning Rubs:

Spice Isle Sauces offers a carefully curated selection of authentic Caribbean flavors, perfect for adding a touch of the tropics to any meal. Their product lines include:

**Tropical Seasoning Rub & Tropical Tamarind Sauce:** A harmonious blend of sweet and tangy, these products bring a vibrant, fruity zest to your dishes.
**Tropical Jerk Seasoning Rub & Tropical Jerk Sauce:** For those who crave bold, fiery flavors, these jerk-inspired options deliver an irresistible heat and aromatic spice blend.
**Tropical Heat Seasoning Rub & Tropical Heat Sauce:** Designed for true heat seekers, these products offer an intense, yet balanced, spicy kick that ignites the palate.

For these mouthwatering Tropical Chicken Nachos and the accompanying Tropical Salsa, I specifically chose to highlight the exquisite flavors of the Tropical Seasoning Rub and the Tropical Tamarind Sauce. These two products perfectly complement each other, creating a unique taste profile that is both complex and incredibly satisfying.

Our culinary journey begins with preparing the star of our nachos: the chicken. We’ll generously coat the chicken breasts with the incredible Spice Isle Tropical Seasoning Rub. This rub is packed with a blend of spices that immediately conjures images of Caribbean markets. After a thorough rubdown, the chicken will be immersed in a vibrant marinade featuring a touch of olive oil, fresh cilantro, and the bright, tangy zest and juice of limes. This crucial step allows the chicken to absorb all those wonderful tropical notes, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

To create this aromatic marinade, simply zest and juice two small limes, adding their vibrant essence to the olive oil and freshly chopped cilantro. These three simple tools you see here – a trusty citrus zester, versatile herb scissors, and an efficient citrus juicer – are absolute game-changers in my kitchen. They make prepping fresh ingredients a breeze, and I wholeheartedly recommend them for anyone looking to streamline their cooking process.

Begin by thoroughly rubbing both sides of your two chicken breasts with the exquisite Spice Isle Tropical Seasoning. Ensure the rub is evenly distributed to infuse maximum flavor. Once coated, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into a gallon-sized ziplock bag.

Next, pour your prepared lime, oil, and cilantro mixture into the bag with the chicken. Seal the bag securely, making sure to press out as much air as possible. Then, gently massage the bag to ensure the marinade completely coats the chicken. Place the bag in the refrigerator for at least three hours, allowing all those delightful tropical flavors to meld and deepen. This marination process is key to tender, flavorful chicken that perfectly complements our nachos.

While your chicken is marinating, it’s the perfect time to prepare the star accompaniment: our vibrant Tropical Salsa. Gather all your fresh ingredients – pineapple, kiwi, strawberries, mango, watermelon, and jalapeño – and chop and dice them to your preferred size. The key here is fresh, ripe fruit for maximum sweetness and tang, balanced with a hint of heat from the jalapeño. This colorful medley will provide a refreshing contrast to the savory nachos, adding a burst of freshness and a true taste of the tropics to every bite.

Once all your fruit and jalapeño are finely chopped, gently combine them in a bowl. Add the remaining salsa ingredients, including a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a dash more of the Spice Isle Tropical Seasoning Rub for an extra layer of flavor. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is well-mixed. Then, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill. Allowing the salsa to rest for a while lets the flavors meld beautifully, ensuring it’s perfectly refreshing when you’re ready to serve your nachos.

For an extra touch of tropical flair and a truly impressive presentation, consider creating a unique “pineapple bowl” for your salsa. Simply cut a fresh pineapple in half lengthwise, then carefully hollow out the fruit, leaving a sturdy shell. This natural bowl not only looks fantastic but also enhances the island theme of your dish. Fill it with your freshly prepared Tropical Salsa, and get ready for compliments!

Once your chicken has soaked up all those fantastic marinade flavors, remove it from the ziplock bag, discarding the marinade. It’s time to grill! Place the chicken breasts on a preheated grill set to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grill for approximately 5 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. I highly recommend using a reliable instant-read thermometer like my new Thermapen Mk4 Meat Thermometer – it provides quick, accurate readings, ensuring perfectly cooked chicken every time.

I personally love a little char on the outside of my grilled chicken; it adds an extra layer of smoky flavor that complements the tropical spices beautifully. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill. Now comes the exciting part: shredding the tender chicken and tossing it with the irresistible Spice Isle Tropical Tamarind Sauce. This will create the juicy, flavorful topping for our ultimate nachos!

With the chicken perfectly cooked and lightly charred, it’s time to shred it into bite-sized pieces. You can do this with two forks, or for even quicker results, a stand mixer with the paddle attachment works wonders! Once shredded, generously toss the chicken with the magnificent Spice Isle Tropical Tamarind Sauce. This sauce is a game-changer, coating every strand of chicken with its unique sweet, tangy, and subtly spiced flavor, making it incredibly juicy and ready to become the star of our nachos.

Now, let’s assemble our glorious Tropical Chicken Nachos! Grab a large sheet pan and line it with good quality parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange your favorite corn tortilla chips in an even layer across the parchment. If you’re planning to feature that charming pineapple bowl of salsa in the center, remember to leave a small, circular space free of chips in the middle. Next, generously sprinkle a delicious blend of shredded Monterey Jack and Mild Cheddar cheeses over the chips, followed by spoonfuls of your delectable Tropical Tamarind chicken. Ensure every chip has a chance to soak up the cheesy goodness and flavorful chicken!

With your sheet pan fully loaded, it’s time to transform these ingredients into a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece. Place the nachos into a preheated oven set to 425 degrees Fahrenheit, or for that authentic tailgate experience, carefully position the pan on a heated grill. Bake or grill for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly, and the chips are slightly crisped. Once out of the heat, immediately garnish your nachos with fresh cilantro and vibrant jalapeño slices (if desired, for an extra kick). Finally, present this stunning platter alongside your charming pineapple bowl, brimming with the refreshing Tropical Salsa. Get ready to dive into the taste of the islands!

Just look at that magnificent, cheesy goodness! These Tropical Chicken Nachos aren’t just a snack; they’re a statement. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a surefire way to win an award for the best tailgating grub or party appetizer. The combination of savory, spiced chicken, rich melted cheese, and the bright, fresh Tropical Salsa creates an unforgettable flavor profile that will have everyone reaching for more. Prepare to be the hero of your next gathering!

Dive Deeper into the Flavors of Spice Isle’s Rub and Sauce:

The magic of these nachos truly comes alive through the unique profiles of the Spice Isle Tropical Seasoning Rub and Tropical Tamarind Sauce. These products are celebrated for their vibrant, tropical fruit-infused notes. With every taste, you’ll discern delightful hints of cherry, bright orange, and the distinctive sweet-and-sour essence of Tamarind.

But what exactly is Tamarind? Tamarind, or *Tamarindus indica*, is a remarkable fruit known for its tangy yet sweet flavor profile. While not native to the United States, it thrives in its native Africa and is extensively cultivated in India, Pakistan, and throughout the sun-drenched islands of the Caribbean. Beyond its culinary appeal, Tamarind boasts a rich history in traditional medicine, where it’s valued for its numerous reputed medicinal properties, including digestive aid and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Culinary uses for Tamarind are incredibly diverse. It’s a staple in many global cuisines, lending its complex flavor to a wide array of dishes. You’ll find it in savory sauces, vibrant marinades, refreshing drinks, spicy chutneys, and even delightful desserts. In fact, its distinctive tang is one of the key ingredients that gives Worcestershire sauce its signature flavor. This versatility makes the Tropical Tamarind Sauce an essential pantry item for any adventurous cook.

The Tropical Tamarind Sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with virtually any protein. Whether you’re grilling chicken, searing beef, slow-cooking pork, or preparing delicate seafood, this sauce adds an unforgettable layer of sweet and savory depth. Beyond main courses, try stirring it into cocktail smokies for an elevated appetizer, or drizzling it over meatloaf for a surprising burst of flavor. It also makes an exceptional dipping sauce for spring rolls, chicken tenders, or even fresh vegetables.

And for a truly unexpected treat, try sprinkling the Tropical Seasoning Rub over freshly popped popcorn. The unique blend of sweet and savory spices transforms a simple snack into an addictive, gourmet experience. It’s an easy way to bring a little island flavor to your movie night!

Stay Connected with Spice Isle Sauces and Seasonings Online!

Want to keep up with the latest from Spice Isle Sauces? You can find them across various social media platforms, where they share delicious recipes, product updates, and a taste of the Caribbean lifestyle. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for daily inspiration. Don’t forget to visit their official website for even more tantalizing recipes and information about their product range!

Steve and Heidi are dedicated to sharing the authentic taste of the Islands with everyone. They frequently travel, spending many weekends attending festivals and shows across the United States. They love meeting new people, promoting their unique product line, and introducing folks to the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean. Be sure to check their schedule – you might just catch them at an event near you and get to experience their passion firsthand!

Where to Purchase Your Own Spice Isle Seasoning & Sauces?

Ready to infuse your cooking with incredible Caribbean flavors? Getting your hands on Spice Isle products is easy! You can conveniently order their full range of sauces and seasonings directly from the official Spice Isle Website. Alternatively, for those in the region, their products are also available for purchase on the Buy Nebraska Website. Stock up and start your tropical culinary adventure today!

I don’t know about you, but all this talk of tropical flavors and cheesy goodness has me absolutely *starving*! It’s time to stop drooling and start cooking. Let’s get to the full recipe details so you can create these incredible nachos in your own kitchen!

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Tropical Chicken Nachos

Tropical seasoned grilled chicken over sheet pan nachos and cheese. Served with perfectly spiced tropical salsa. A colorful treat and alternative to plain old nachos.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (from 13 votes)

Print Recipe

Prep Time: 30 mins

Cook Time: 15 mins

Additional Time (Marination): 3 hrs

Total Time: 3 hrs 45 mins

Course: Tailgating Food

Cuisine: American

Keywords: fruit salsa, how to make chicken nachos, nachos, pineapple salsa, tropical nachos, tropical salsa

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 254 kcal per serving

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

Manual Juicer Citrus / Lemon Squeezer
Herb Scissors
13×18 Half Sheet Pan
Citrus Zester
Spice Isle Sauces LLC products (Tropical Seasoning Rub & Tropical Tamarind Sauce)
Thermapen Mk4 Instant-read Thermometer

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

2 chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
2 small limes (zested and juiced)
1 Tablespoon fresh Cilantro (chopped)
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
2 Tablespoons Spice Isle Tropical Seasoning & Rub

For the Tropical Salsa

1 cup pineapple (diced)
1 kiwi (peeled and diced)
1/2 cup strawberries (diced)
1 cup mango (diced)
1 cup watermelon (diced)
1 Tablespoon jalapeño (chopped fine – more if you like more heat)
1 Tablespoon fresh cilantro (chopped)
1 small lime (zested and juiced)
2 1/2 teaspoons Spice Isle Tropical Seasoning & Rub

For the Nachos

Corn Tortilla Chips (your favorite brand)
8 ounces Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded)
4 ounces Mild Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
1/2 cup Spice Isle Tropical Tamarind Sauce
Jalapeño slices and fresh Cilantro for serving (if desired)
Fresh Pineapple “Bowl” for serving (if desired, from a hollowed-out pineapple half)

Instructions

To Prepare the Chicken: Rinse and pat dry chicken breasts. Generously coat all sides with Spice Isle Tropical Seasoning & Rub and place them in a gallon-sized ziplock bag. Add the zest and juice of 2 small limes, 1 Tablespoon of chopped cilantro, and 2 Tablespoons of olive oil to the bag. Seal shut, ensuring the marinade coats the chicken, and place in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).
To Prepare the Tropical Salsa: In a bowl, combine the diced pineapple, kiwi, strawberries, mango, watermelon, finely chopped jalapeño, 1 Tablespoon of chopped cilantro, the zest and juice of 1 small lime, and 2 1/2 teaspoons of Spice Isle Tropical Seasoning & Rub. Stir well to combine all ingredients. If you plan to make a “pineapple bowl” for serving, cut a fresh pineapple in half lengthwise. Carefully make small cuts into the fruit and around the edges, then use a spoon to scoop out the fruit, creating a hollow bowl. Fill the pineapple bowl with your prepared salsa. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Preparation of the Chicken (Continued): Once the chicken has marinated for a minimum of 3 hours, remove it from the bag, discarding the marinade. Preheat your grill to 375 degrees F. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for approximately 5 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy. Remove the cooked chicken from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, then shred it. In a clean bowl, combine the shredded chicken with 1/2 cup of Spice Isle Tropical Tamarind Gourmet Sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Preparing the Sheet Pan Nachos: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (or prepare your grill for indirect heat). Line a large sheet pan with good quality parchment paper. Arrange corn tortilla chips in a single layer over the parchment. If using a pineapple bowl for your salsa, leave a small, empty circular space in the center of the chips. Evenly top the chips with the shredded Monterey Jack and Mild Cheddar cheeses, followed by the sauced tropical chicken. Bake in the preheated oven (or place on the grill) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven or grill. Garnish the nachos with additional fresh cilantro and jalapeño slices, if desired. Place your pineapple bowl filled with Tropical Salsa in the center of the nachos. Serve immediately and savor the exquisite taste of the Islands!

Notes

If grilling the chicken isn’t an option, you can cook it on the stovetop. Heat a skillet to medium-high heat, sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden. Reduce heat to medium, cover, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F before shredding.

Nachos can also be prepared entirely on the grill. After assembling the nachos on the sheet pan, place the pan on a preheated grill (with indirect heat if possible, or low heat) at approximately 425 degrees F. Remove once the cheese is melted and bubbly.

For ultimate convenience at tailgates or parties, everything can be prepped ahead of time – the chicken marinated, the salsa made, and the cheese shredded. Then, simply assemble and cook the nachos on-site!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)