Loaded Fries Chicken & Shrimp Recipe

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) if baking, or preheat an air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spread the frozen fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet (or air fryer basket). Lightly toss with 2 tbs vegetable oil, kosher salt, and black pepper so fries are evenly coated.

Bake for 18–25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and crispy. If air-frying cook 12–15 minutes shaking the basket halfway. Remove and keep warm on a sheet pan while you prepare other components.

Pat the diced chicken dry with paper towel. In a bowl combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, 0.25 tsp salt and 0.25 tsp pepper. Toss the chicken with the olive oil and spice blend until evenly coated.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a light drizzle of oil if the skillet is dry. Add chicken in a single layer and cook 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and lightly browned (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

Pat shrimp dry. In a small bowl toss shrimp with lemon juice, old bay, paprika, 0.25 tsp salt and 1 tsp olive oil until evenly coated.

Using the same skillet (wipe if necessary) over medium-high heat, add a teaspoon of oil and add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove shrimp and keep warm with the chicken.

Layer fries

Arrange the hot fries on a large ovenproof serving platter or keep on the baking sheet. Evenly distribute the cooked chicken and shrimp over the fries.

Add cheese

Scatter the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack evenly over the fries and proteins.

Place under a preheated broiler for 2–4 minutes, watching closely, until cheese is melted and bubbling. Alternatively, return to the 425°F oven for 3–5 minutes.

Remove from oven. Drizzle the garlic butter (melted butter mixed with minced garlic) lightly over the cheese. Dot the spicy mayo over the top in a zigzag or serve on the side.

Sprinkle crumbled bacon, sliced scallions, pickled jalapeños and chopped cilantro over the loaded fries. Finish with a squeeze of lime over everything to brighten flavors.

Serve immediately while hot. Provide extra lime wedges and hot sauce on the side if desired.