Last Updated On: May 3, 2023
Prepared in just a few minutes, these delectable BBQ Chicken Fries are the ultimate easy appetizer or a fun weeknight meal idea.
Loaded BBQ Chicken Jalapeno Fries
There is nothing quite like a plate of loaded fries, don’t you agree? And, when you load them with protein, vegetables, and cheese, it becomes a quick dinner option on a busy night.
That’s how these Loaded BBQ Chicken Jalapeno Fries came to be. With the kids back in school and participating in extracurricular activities, I’m always on the lookout for simple meals that can be prepared quickly.
With the assistance of a rotisserie chicken and a few additional ingredients, this mouthwatering meal comes together in less than 30 minutes!
What are loaded French fries?
Typically, loaded fries are topped with cheese, bacon, and either ranch dressing or sour cream. However, they can be adorned with just about anything.
All you need for loaded fries is:
- French fries, which you can either make from scratch or heat and eat (such as Ore-Ida fries)
- Meat – this could be shredded chicken, beef brisket, ground beef, bacon bits, or shredded pork. Some even opt for chili on top of their loaded fries!
- Cheese – while most places use shredded cheddar, loaded fries can also feature pepper jack, nacho cheese sauce, or even mozzarella with marinara sauce for an Italian twist
- Veggies – although technically optional, it’s important to include some vegetables. Chopped green onions, sliced jalapenos, salsa, fried onions, and diced tomatoes are popular options.
What is the traditional way to make loaded French fries?
If you’re making your own French fries, bake or fry them first! Then, on a foil-lined and non-stick-spray-greased sheet pan, layer the fries, followed by the meat, then the cheese, and finally the veggies. Bake at about 425°F until the cheese is bubbling or until everything is warmed through. This should only take between five and ten minutes.
Some people prefer to add their veggies after cooking to maintain their crispness. However, this is a matter of personal preference. Feel free to customize your loaded fries to your liking!
Are loaded fries similar to Canadian poutine?
Yes and no. Like poutine, loaded fries have potatoes as a base and are packed with delightful flavors. However, what distinguishes authentic Canadian poutine from its Americanized counterpart is that the former is topped with gravy and cheese curds.
A few years ago, at a food and wine conference I attended, they had a poutine bar sponsored by a potato company. Interestingly enough, they had all the toppings you would expect for loaded fries, but I don’t recall any gravy or cheese curds!
Nevertheless, the loaded fry bar was a huge hit and could be a fantastic idea for a party if you’re looking for something unique. Offer various toppings and a big bowl of French fries for people to load up, and voila! You have the makings of a crowd-pleasing buffet.
How do you make loaded BBQ chicken jalapeno fries?
After sharing these on Instagram, I knew I had to bring the recipe here to the blog too.
The secret behind my loaded fries lies in the cheese. Instead of piling on heaps of shredded cheddar, I opted to create a cheese sauce that is surprisingly easy to make.
To make the cheese sauce, you will need milk, cheddar cheese, butter, flour, and a touch of hot sauce. Start by making a roux, which simply means whisking melted butter and flour in a pan until it becomes a thick paste. Then, add your milk and shredded cheese. Finally, finish off the sauce by adding a splash of hot sauce.
While the fries are baking, have your kids help you shred the meat from the rotisserie chicken.
Once all the ingredients are ready, it’s time to assemble.
Layer the chicken on top of the fries, drizzle on the BBQ sauce, pour over the cheese sauce, and top it all off with jalapenos and green onions. Serve and enjoy immediately. If you prefer an extra kick of heat, feel free to add a little more hot sauce.
What are some other dishes I can make with rotisserie chicken?
I love using rotisserie chickens to create a variety of meals, including:
- Tomato Basil Chicken Crescent Rolls
- Spicy Mustard Chicken Salad with Grapes
- The Easiest Chicken Enchiladas
- Zero Point Weight Watchers Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Easy Italian Roasted Chicken Sandwich
- Berry Delicious Avocado Chicken Salad
And so many more!
What is your favorite dish to make with rotisserie chicken? Tweet me at @foodwinesun and tell me about it!
Can I use the cheese sauce for other dishes?
Absolutely! This cheese sauce can be used for nachos or even as a way to encourage your kids to eat broccoli. I also used it to make my Taco Ramen.
Now, here is my recipe for Loaded BBQ Chicken French Fries. Be sure to Print It and Pin It so that you can make them again and again! I know I do 🙂
I hope you enjoy this delicious Loaded Fries recipe as much as we do!
What are some of your favorite french fry toppings?
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