Description
A flavorful twist on loaded fries featuring juicy chicken al pastor cooked in a smoky chipotle marinade, topped with melted cheese, fresh pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and creamy sour cream. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal with a Mexican-inspired flair.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Al Pastor 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 for less spice)
- 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)
Loaded Fries
- 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, combine olive oil, pineapple juice, lime juice, chipotle in adobo sauce (or chili powder), minced garlic, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into small strips or bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken strips and cook for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and slightly charred. During the last minute, optionally stir in diced fresh pineapple to infuse sweetness.
- Prepare the Fries: While the chicken cooks, bake frozen French fries according to package instructions, typically at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy. For homemade fries, fry or bake until crisp.
- Assemble Loaded Fries: Arrange the cooked fries on a large serving platter or baking sheet. Immediately sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the hot fries.
- Melt the Cheese: Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add Toppings: Remove fries from the oven, then top with cooked chicken al pastor. Garnish with finely chopped red onion, cilantro, and drizzle sour cream or Mexican crema over the top.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle with salsa or hot sauce to taste and serve hot with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the fries.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken longer enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Adjust chipotle or chili powder to control the dish’s spiciness.
- Fresh pineapple adds sweetness but can be omitted if preferred.
- Use homemade fries for a fresher, crisper texture.
- Serve immediately to enjoy fries at their crispiest.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
