Chicken Fajita Loaded Fries

Chicken Fajita Loaded Fries

Crispy double-fried fries loaded with fajita-seasoned chicken thighs, charred peppers and onions, and two layers of melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. The ultimate loaded fries recipe for game day or weeknight dinners.

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Servings servings

Calories 775 kcal

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Equipment

Ingredients

Fries

1 bag frozen hand-cut fries Idaho style
oil for frying canola, vegetable, or peanut
salt to taste

Chicken Fajita Mix

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 green bell pepper diced
1 red bell pepper diced
0.5 large onion diced

Fajita Seasoning

1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
0.5 tsp cumin
0.5 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp onion powder
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp black pepper
0.5 lime juiced

Assembly and Toppings

2 cups shredded cheese cheddar and Monterey Jack blend
queso or nacho cheese optional drizzle
fresh cilantro optional
sour cream or chipotle crema optional

Instructions

Heat oil to 325°F. Fry frozen fries for 3-4 minutes until cooked through. Remove to a wire rack. Increase oil to 375°F and fry again 2-3 minutes until deep golden and crispy. Drain and salt immediately.
Mix fajita seasoning. Season chicken thighs generously. Cook in a hot skillet with olive oil for 6-8 minutes, flipping often, until internal temp reaches 170-175°F. Rest 2 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
In the same skillet, cook diced peppers and onions for 4-5 minutes with visible char. Add chopped chicken back in and squeeze lime juice over everything. Toss to combine.
Spread fries on a sheet pan. Add 1 cup cheese, then chicken fajita mix, then remaining 1 cup cheese on top.
Broil for 2-4 minutes until cheese is fully melted and bubbling with golden spots. Watch closely.
Top with fresh cilantro, sour cream or chipotle crema, and optional queso drizzle. Serve immediately.

Notes

Grill Master Tip: Double frying is the difference between loaded fries that stay crispy and loaded fries that turn soggy. The first fry at 325°F cooks the interior. The second fry at 375°F creates a rigid, moisture-resistant shell that holds up under heavy toppings.

Air Fryer Option: Cook fries at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, shaking halfway. They will not be as crispy as deep-fried but still work well.

Make It on the Grill: Use a cast iron skillet on the grill for the chicken and peppers. Fry the fries in a Dutch oven over a side burner or use the oven inside.

Nutrition

Calories: 775kcalCarbohydrates: 63gProtein: 40gFat: 45gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 1100mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6g

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