Description
Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries combine crispy golden fries topped with savory and slightly spicy marinated chicken thighs cooked with classic al pastor seasonings. Melted Mexican cheese, fresh herbs, tangy crema, and a drizzle of salsa come together in this irresistible Tex-Mex inspired dish that’s perfect for sharing or a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce (or 1 tablespoon chili powder)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh pineapple, diced (optional)
For the Fries and Toppings
- 4 cups frozen French fries (or homemade fries)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar cheese)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- Salsa or hot sauce, for drizzling
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, mix olive oil, pineapple juice, lime juice, chipotle in adobo sauce (or chili powder), minced garlic, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and combine with marinade. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and slightly charred. Optionally add diced fresh pineapple during the last minute for additional sweetness and flavor.
- Prepare the Fries: While chicken cooks, bake frozen fries according to package instructions (typically 20-25 minutes at 400°F) until crispy and golden. For homemade fries, fry or bake until desired crispiness.
- Melt Cheese on Fries: Spread cooked fries on a large serving platter or baking sheet. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the fries and return to the oven for 2-3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Assemble Loaded Fries: Top cheesy fries with cooked chicken al pastor, then sprinkle with finely chopped red onion and cilantro. Drizzle with sour cream or Mexican crema and add salsa or hot sauce to taste.
- Serve: Serve the loaded fries hot with lime wedges on the side for a fresh citrus burst.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
- For less spice, reduce chipotle in adobo sauce or use chili powder instead.
- Diced fresh pineapple added into the cooking chicken enhances authentic al pastor flavor.
- Feel free to use homemade fries or your favorite frozen variety.
- Fresh cilantro and red onion add brightness and texture to the dish.
- Use Mexican crema or sour cream depending on preference.
