If you’re looking to bring the fiesta right to your table, Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries are truly a game changer. Imagine a glorious mountain of crispy golden fries, piled high with tender, smoky chicken al pastor, gooey cheese, sweet-tart pineapple, and all the toppings you could want. Every bite is a vibrant mix of Mexican-inspired flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re serving these as a party appetizer or a fun weeknight dinner, Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries are guaranteed to disappear in record time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries is that every ingredient serves a delicious purpose. From the bold seasonings in the marinade to the fresh garnishes, each element adds something special—flavor, crunch, color, or creaminess. Gather these simple ingredients and get ready to layer up the ultimate plate of loaded fries!
- Frozen French fries: Choose your favorite shape (waffle, crinkle, or shoestring) for crispy edges and a sturdy base that holds all the toppings.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, thighs are perfect for soaking up the al pastor marinade.
- Olive oil: Helps the chicken brown beautifully and adds a touch of richness.
- Adobo sauce from chipotle peppers: Brings smoky heat and authentic depth to the marinade.
- Pineapple juice: Adds the signature sweet-tart al pastor note that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.
- Apple cider vinegar: Brightens the marinade and balances the flavors.
- Chili powder: Infuses the chicken with warm, earthy heat.
- Ground cumin: Lends nutty, aromatic undertones to the seasoning blend.
- Smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
- Garlic powder: Packs in savory flavor without extra prep.
- Onion powder: Adds mellow sweetness and complexity.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Shredded Mexican blend cheese: Melts into a gooey, stretchy topping that ties everything together.
- Diced pineapple: Offers juicy bursts of sweetness and a tropical twist.
- Diced red onion: Adds a pop of color and sharp bite, balancing the richness.
- Chopped fresh cilantro: Freshens up the dish with its signature herbal flavor.
- Sour cream: Drizzled on top for cool, creamy contrast.
- Lime wedges: A final squeeze perks up all the flavors and brightens every bite.
How to Make Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries
Step 1: Bake the Fries
Start by baking your frozen French fries according to the package instructions. You want them crispy and golden, so give them enough space on the baking sheet and maybe toss them halfway through. The fries are the foundation for your Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries, so don’t rush this step!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
While the fries are in the oven, whisk together the adobo sauce, pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Add the chicken pieces and toss until they’re completely coated. Let them soak up those bold, tangy flavors for at least 10 minutes while you prep everything else.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the edges start to caramelize. Those golden bits are flavor gold!
Step 4: Layer and Melt
When the fries are ready, transfer them to an oven-safe dish or baking sheet. Scatter the cooked chicken evenly over the fries, then sprinkle generously with the shredded Mexican blend cheese. Pop everything back in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes, just until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and irresistible.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Take your hot, cheesy fries out of the oven and immediately top with diced pineapple, red onion, and fresh cilantro. Drizzle with sour cream and add a few lime wedges on the side for squeezing. Your Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries are ready to wow!
How to Serve Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries
Garnishes
Finish your Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries with a shower of fresh cilantro, a handful of diced red onion, and juicy pineapple bits. A drizzle of sour cream adds creamy coolness, and lime wedges on the side let everyone add their own burst of brightness. If you love heat, toss on some sliced jalapeños for extra kick!
Side Dishes
While these loaded fries are pretty much a meal on their own, they pair beautifully with simple sides. Think crisp green salads, tangy pickled veggies, or even a bowl of fresh guacamole and chips. If you’re serving a crowd, turn it into a fiesta with icy aguas frescas or your favorite Mexican sodas.
Creative Ways to Present
Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries are showstoppers whether you serve them family-style in a big platter or portioned into fun individual bowls. For parties, you can even serve them in mini baskets or paper cones for a playful street-food vibe. Top with extra sauces like chipotle crema or salsa verde if you want to go all out!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries left (a big “if”!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the garnishes like cilantro and lime separate for the freshest flavor when you reheat.
Freezing
While fries don’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze the cooked chicken al pastor on its own for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for loaded fries, just bake up a fresh batch and add your reheated chicken and toppings.
Reheating
To bring back the magic, spread the leftovers on a baking sheet and reheat in a 375°F oven until hot and crispy. The oven helps the fries and cheese regain their texture—much better than the microwave!
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works well if you prefer a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook it so it stays juicy and tender in your Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries.
How spicy are Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries?
The heat level is moderate, thanks to the adobo sauce and chili powder, but you can easily adjust it. Add more adobo or chopped jalapeños for extra fire, or cut back for a milder version.
Can I make Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and toppings ahead, but for the best results, bake the fries and assemble everything just before serving. This keeps the fries crispy and the cheese perfectly melty.
What cheese works best?
A shredded Mexican blend is classic, but feel free to experiment. Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, or even cheddar all melt beautifully and taste delicious on Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries.
Are Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries gluten-free?
They can be! Just double-check your fries and seasonings to ensure they’re gluten-free. Most frozen fries are, but it’s always smart to read the label if you’re cooking for someone with sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
It’s impossible not to fall for the bold flavors, melty cheese, and playful toppings of Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or making a fun family dinner, this dish turns any night into a celebration. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy loaded fries!
Print
Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Loaded fries topped with flavorful chicken al pastor, melted cheese, and fresh toppings create a delicious Mexican-inspired appetizer or main course that’s perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Fries
- 1 pound frozen French fries (waffle, crinkle, or shoestring)
Chicken Al Pastor
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons adobo sauce from chipotle peppers
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup diced pineapple
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Bake the fries: Preheat your oven and bake the frozen fries according to package directions until they are crispy and golden brown, ensuring a perfect base for the toppings.
- Prepare the chicken marinade: In a medium bowl, mix together the adobo sauce, pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Toss the chicken pieces in this marinade to coat thoroughly.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice caramelized exterior.
- Assemble the loaded fries: Transfer the baked fries to a large oven-safe dish or baking sheet. Spread the cooked chicken evenly over the fries, then sprinkle the shredded Mexican blend cheese on top.
- Melt the cheese: Return the assembled fries to the oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese melts fully and becomes bubbly.
- Add fresh toppings and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle diced pineapple, red onion, and fresh cilantro over the top. Drizzle with sour cream and serve immediately with lime wedges for squeezing over the dish.
Notes
- For more heat, add chopped jalapeños or extra adobo sauce to the marinade or as a topping.
- Use rotisserie chicken as a shortcut—toss with the marinade and heat before adding to fries.
- Try different types of fries such as crinkle cut or waffle for varied texture.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the fries crispiness and melted cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
