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chicken loaded fries2

Chicken Loaded Fries

Dmitri Magi
Craving the ultimate comfort food? Chicken Loaded Fries are here to satisfy all your cravings! Crispy fries piled high with juicy chicken, melted cheese, and all your favorite toppings – it's the perfect game-day snack, party appetizer, or just a fun treat. This Chicken Loaded Fries recipe is easy to make at home and way better than anything you'll get at a drive-thru. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have you saying "yum!" Let's get loading!
Calories: ~550 | Protein: 35g | Carbs: 45g | Fat: 20g
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • Food processor or blender
  • Air fryer or oven
  • Large non-stick frying pan
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Mixing bowls
  • Grill or broiler

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken:
  • 300 g chicken thigh fillets
  • For the Marinade:
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp oregano
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp chipotle chili flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lime
  • 3 tbsp tomato purée
  • 1 chopped onion
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
  • For the Fries:
  • 400 g Maris Piper potatoes or any starchy potato
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Toppings:
  • 60 g grated mozzarella
  • Jalapeños optional
  • Fresh coriander optional

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Marinade.
    Add all the marinade ingredients (paprika, oregano, ground coriander, cumin, garlic powder, chipotle chili flakes, salt, pepper, lime juice, tomato purée, onion, olive oil, water, and white wine vinegar) into a food processor. Blend until smooth.
  • Marinate the Chicken.
    Place the chicken thighs in a bowl and coat them with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for extra flavor.
  • Prepare the Fries.
    Cut the potatoes into 1cm-thick chips. Season them with salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Place the fries in an air fryer at 190°C (375°F) and cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally. If using an oven, bake at the same temperature until golden and crispy.
  • Cook the Chicken.
    Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat with a spray of oil. Add the marinated chicken and sear on one side for about 5 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until the chicken is fully cooked. Add any leftover marinade to the pan while cooking.
    Remove the chicken from the pan and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pan and mix it with the remaining marinade for extra flavor.
  • Assemble the Loaded Fries.
    Once the fries are cooked, layer them on an oven-safe plate or dish. Add a layer of the pulled chicken, followed by the grated mozzarella. Place under a grill or broiler for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
  • Garnish and Serve.
    Top with jalapeños and fresh coriander if desired. Serve immediately with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or salsa.

Notes

  • Don’t Skip the Marinating Time: Marinating helps tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
  • Cut Even-Sized Chips: This ensures the fries cook evenly in the air fryer or oven.
  • Watch the Grill: Keep an eye on the cheese while it’s under the grill to avoid burning.