Craving nachos but want to keep it keto? These Air Fryer Nachos deliver all the crunch and flavour of classic nachos, without the carbs! By using crispy cheese chips as the base, you get a satisfying, golden crunch that pairs perfectly with juicy shredded chicken, melty cheese, and a zesty avocado salsa.
This recipe is ideal for sharing at gatherings, as a quick weeknight dinner, or as a hearty snack. The air fryer makes prep fast and fuss-free, giving you perfectly crisp chips in minutes. Simply bake cheese rounds, top with seasoned chicken and cheese, then finish with a fresh avocado salsa for a burst of colour and taste.
Ready in under 30 minutes, these nachos are loaded with protein and healthy fats, keeping you full and energised. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become a go-to for satisfying those nacho cravings—without the guilt!
At a glance
- Time: 28 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 2
- Cost: Affordable
Macros (per serving)
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 34 g
- Carbs: 6 g
- Energy: 440 kcal
Ingredients
- 120g Cheddar cheese, grated (For chips and topping)
- 100g Cooked chicken breast, shredded (Leftover or rotisserie works well)
- 1 small Avocado (Diced)
- 60g Cherry tomatoes (Quartered)
- 20g Red onion (Finely diced)
- 1 tbsp Lime juice (Freshly squeezed)
- 1 small Jalapeño (Sliced, optional)
- 1 tbsp Coriander leaves (Chopped, optional)
- 1/2 tsp Paprika (For chicken)
- To taste Salt and pepper
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Baking parchment
- Mixing bowls
- Knife
- Chopping board
- Spoon
Steps
- Line the air fryer basket with baking parchment. Place 1-tbsp mounds of grated cheddar onto the parchment, flattening each into a thin circle. Leave space between each mound.
- Air fry at 200°C for 4–5 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden at the edges. Remove and let cool on a rack to crisp up. Repeat with remaining cheese to make all chips.
- In a bowl, toss shredded chicken with paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Prepare the avocado salsa: combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, and coriander in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Gently mix.
- Arrange the cheese chips on a heatproof plate or in the air fryer basket. Top evenly with seasoned chicken and sprinkle with remaining grated cheese.
- Return to the air fryer at 180°C for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and chicken is heated through.
- Transfer nachos to a serving platter. Spoon avocado salsa over the top and scatter with jalapeño slices if using.
- Serve immediately while the cheese chips are crisp and toppings are fresh.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens:
Recipe contains: dairy
Potential swaps:
- Cheddar cheese → Vegan cheese alternative — For dairy-free; ensure it melts well and is low in carbs
- Chicken breast → Cooked beef mince or tofu — For variety or vegetarian option
- Coriander → Parsley — If you dislike coriander
Serving Ideas
- With sour cream and sliced jalapeños for extra tang and heat.
- Alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- As a party platter with extra salsa and guacamole for dipping.
Additional Info
Chefs Tips
- Let cheese chips cool completely before topping to keep them crisp.
- Use pre-cooked chicken for speed, or spice up with taco seasoning.
- Dice avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
Variations
- Swap chicken for cooked beef mince or pulled pork.
- Add diced bell peppers or black olives for extra flavour.
- Top with a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Troubleshooting
- If cheese chips are too soft, air fry 1–2 minutes longer until golden and crisp.
- If toppings make chips soggy, serve salsa on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store cheese chips in an airtight container at room temperature. Assemble nachos just before serving for best texture.
- Fridge: up to 2 days
- Freezer: up to 0 months
- Reheat: Re-crisp cheese chips in the air fryer at 180°C for 1–2 minutes if needed.
Ingredient Spotlight
Cheddar cheese: Provides the base for crunchy, low-carb chips and adds rich flavour.
Avocado: Adds creamy texture, healthy fats, and fresh flavour to the salsa.
FAQs
Can I make these nachos ahead of time?
The cheese chips can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container, but assemble and top just before serving for best crunch.
What other toppings can I use?
Try sour cream, sliced olives, or diced peppers. Just keep toppings low in carbs.
Can I use a different cheese for the chips?
Yes, hard cheeses like mozzarella or gouda work well, but cheddar gives the best crunch and flavour.
How do I keep the cheese chips from sticking?
Always use baking parchment in the air fryer to prevent sticking and make removal easy.
Is this recipe gluten free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten free as it contains no grains or flour.
Air Fryer Nachos with Cheesy Chicken and Avocado Salsa (Keto Friendly)
Ingredients
- 120g Cheddar cheese, grated (For chips and topping)
- 100g Cooked chicken breast, shredded (Leftover or rotisserie works well)
- 1 small Avocado (Diced)
- 60g Cherry tomatoes (Quartered)
- 20g Red onion (Finely diced)
- 1 tbsp Lime juice (Freshly squeezed)
- 1 small Jalapeño (Sliced, optional)
- 1 tbsp Coriander leaves (Chopped, optional)
- 1/2 tsp Paprika (For chicken)
- To taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Line the air fryer basket with baking parchment. Place 1-tbsp mounds of grated cheddar onto the parchment, flattening each into a thin circle. Leave space between each mound.
- Air fry at 200°C for 4–5 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden at the edges. Remove and let cool on a rack to crisp up. Repeat with remaining cheese to make all chips.
- In a bowl, toss shredded chicken with paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Prepare the avocado salsa: combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, and coriander in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Gently mix.
- Arrange the cheese chips on a heatproof plate or in the air fryer basket. Top evenly with seasoned chicken and sprinkle with remaining grated cheese.
- Return to the air fryer at 180°C for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and chicken is heated through.
- Transfer nachos to a serving platter. Spoon avocado salsa over the top and scatter with jalapeño slices if using.
- Serve immediately while the cheese chips are crisp and toppings are fresh.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens: dairy
- Cheddar cheese → Vegan cheese alternative — For dairy-free; ensure it melts well and is low in carbs
- Chicken breast → Cooked beef mince or tofu — For variety or vegetarian option
- Coriander → Parsley — If you dislike coriander
Nutrition (per serving)
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 34 g
- Carbs: 6 g
- Energy: 440 kcal
