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Irresistible Chicken Nacho Fries

chicken nacho fries recipe - featured image

A quick and easy snack featuring crispy fries topped with tender, spiced chicken, melty cheese, and classic nacho fixings. Perfect for game days, casual get-togethers, or a satisfying treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (about 600g) frozen shoestring fries or steak-cut fries
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound/450g), diced into small cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 100g)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (about 100g)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 medium ripe tomato, diced
  • Optional: diced red onion or green onions
  • Optional extras: guacamole or sliced avocado, hot sauce or salsa on the side

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange frozen fries in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  2. While fries bake, toss diced chicken with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl until well coated.
  3. Heat a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if needed). Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and browned. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  4. Once fries are done, reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Transfer fries to an oven-safe dish or keep on baking sheet if ovenproof. Evenly spread cooked chicken over fries.
  5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  6. Remove from oven and add fresh toppings: dollop sour cream, scatter diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and cilantro. Add any optional extras like guacamole or sliced onions.
  7. Serve immediately while warm, with gooey cheese and crispy fries.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before seasoning to get a good sear. Avoid overcrowding fries and chicken for best crispness and browning. Add cheese only after fries and chicken are cooked to prevent soggy fries. For extra crispness, broil fries for 2 minutes before serving if needed. Store leftovers in airtight container and reheat in oven to maintain crispness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken nacho fries, easy snack, game day recipe, cheesy fries, quick appetizer, homemade nachos