Loaded fries just got a bold, flavorful upgrade! These Cajun Chicken Loaded Fries combine crispy steak fries with tender, perfectly seasoned chicken, gooey Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses, and a creamy hot sauce. Every bite is a mix of heat, creaminess, and crunch that’s perfect for your list of Super Bowl Foods (or any game day spread), family dinners, or casual entertaining. I also have Loaded Shredded Beef (Birria) French Fries that are a favorite around here!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Fries: Look for frozen steak fries, which make this recipe simple. Follow the package instructions when cooking them. (I like to add a few minutes to the baking time so they are nice and crispy.) You could also use homemade air fryer French fries or roasted potato wedges.
- Cajun Seasoning: Store-bought or homemade works. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. You can swap for thighs if you prefer more juiciness.
- Cheese: Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar melt beautifully. You can use other melty cheeses like Colby or Pepper Jack for extra spice.
- Creamy Hot Sauce: A mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, hot sauce, garlic powder, and green onions. Adjust hot sauce to taste for more or less heat.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and fries in advance, but it’s best to assemble and bake right before serving for the crispiest results.
Can I use a different type of fries?
Yes! Regular frozen fries, crinkle-cut, or homemade fries all work. Just adjust the baking time for crispiness.
Can I make this spicier or milder?
Absolutely. Increase or decrease Cajun seasoning and hot sauce to suit your taste.
Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Pre-cooked chicken, like my shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken, can save time. Just reheat with a little seasoning before topping the fries.
Serving Ideas
- Serve as a main dish for casual dinners or game day snacks.
- Offer as an appetizer or shareable plate at parties.
- Pair with coleslaw or a simple side salad to balance the richness.
- Add a side of pickles or jalapeños for extra tang and heat.
Variations
Spicy Cajun Fries: Add extra Cajun seasoning to the fries or drizzle with more hot sauce before serving.
Buffalo Chicken Fries: Swap the Cajun seasoning for Buffalo seasoning and drizzle with Buffalo sauce instead of hot sauce.
Cheesy Bacon Fries: Add cooked, crumbled bacon (check out how to bake bacon for easy cleanup!) along with the chicken for even more flavor.
Shrimp Loaded Fries: Replace the chicken with Cajun-seasoned shrimp, cooking just until pink and opaque.
Lighter Option: Use less cheese and drizzle the creamy hot sauce lightly instead of generously. Serve with a side salad to balance the richness.
How to Store Cajun Chicken Loaded Fries
Refrigerator: If you have leftovers, store the Cajun Chicken Loaded Fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat in the oven or air fryer to help the fries crisp back up and the cheese melt evenly.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended once the fries are assembled, as the fries tend to lose their texture and become soft after thawing.
Cajun Chicken Loaded Fries
Ingredients
- 1 bag (28 ounces) frozen steak fries
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup (113 g) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 cup (113 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup (55 g) mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 1 tablespoon whole milk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce, plus more for drizzling
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- chives, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to the temperature specified on the steak fry package. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, toss the frozen steak fries with 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning. Spread them out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake according to package instructions, adding 5 to 10 extra minutes if you like them extra crispy.
- While the fries are baking, heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, hot sauce, and garlic powder until smooth. Set aside.
- Once the fries are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven. Evenly top the fries with the cooked chicken and shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheeses.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
- Drizzle the creamy hot sauce over the fries. Garnish with chives and a few extra dashes of hot sauce if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot and melty.
Did you make this recipe?
You can tag me at @iamhomesteader.
What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
I really like these loaded fries! I highly recommend adding plenty of the sauce on top; it ties everything together.
Elizabeth
I could have used a bit more Cajun seasoning (on the chicken). But, it is a solid appetizer!
Stephanie
The combination of melty cheese, seasoned chicken, and crispy fries is hard to beat. I went back for more!
Bella
Really good, but next time I’ll add a little more Cajun seasoning for extra kick. Still delicious and easy to customize.
