Loaded Nashville Hot Chicken Fries Skillet

• 1 pound frozen steak fries
• 12 ounces chicken thighs, cut into strips
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped scallions
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. 2 Spread fries evenly on a baking sheet and bake until crispy, about 20 minutes.
3. 3 Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, and hot sauce.
4. 4 Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
5. 5 Toss cooked chicken in remaining hot sauce and spices.
6. 6 Add baked fries to the skillet, top with chicken, and sprinkle with both cheeses.
7. 7 Return skillet to oven just until cheese melts, about 2-3 minutes.
8. 8 Garnish with scallions and drizzle with ranch dressing before serving.

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large skillet

Variations

• Substitute waffle fries for steak fries.
• Add diced jalapeños for extra heat.

Substitutions

• If hot sauce is too spicy, use a milder variety or reduce the amount.

Pairings

• Serve with buttermilktermilk biscuits or cornbread.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra spice, add more cayenne pepper to the chicken.
• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if preferred, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairs well with coleslaw or a fresh garden salad.

FAQ