Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries

Craving something loaded with flavor and perfect for sharing? These Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries take golden, crispy waffle fries and layer them with juicy al pastor-marinated chicken, gooey queso, and a sweet, tangy pineapple salsa that’s guaranteed to be a hit. With Tenayo’s Spicy Al Pastor BBQ Sauce, this dish delivers the rich, spicy, and slightly smoky flavors of traditional al pastor with a mouthwatering twist. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, these loaded fries are a bold, fun way to savor al pastor goodness in every bite.


Why You’re Going to Love This Recipe

  • Packed with Flavor: The al pastor marinade adds depth, while the pineapple salsa brings a fresh, tropical sweetness that complements every bite.
  • Easy to Make: With store-bought waffle fries and queso, this recipe is easy to throw together but tastes like restaurant-quality fare.
  • Perfect for Sharing: These loaded fries make an impressive and crowd-pleasing appetizer for gatherings or game days.

Ingredients

For the Loaded Fries:

  • Queso (store-bought or homemade)
  • Waffle fries (store-bought)

Al Pastor Marinade:

Pineapple Salsa:

  • Pineapples, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, jalapeño, vegetable oil, salt, pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Pineapple Salsa

In a large bowl, combine the diced pineapples, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, jalapeño, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 2: Al Pastor Marinade

Marinate the chicken thighs in a mixture of vegetable oil and Tenayo’s Spicy Al Pastor BBQ Sauce for at least 30 minutes (up to 24 hours).

Air Fryer Instructions: Preheat to 400°F and cook for 20-22 minutes, flipping halfway. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Baking Instructions: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place marinated chicken thighs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until each piece reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For a golden finish, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes if desired.

Once cooked, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Assemble the Loaded Fries

Bake or fry the waffle fries according to package instructions. Once crispy, arrange them on a serving dish. Warm the queso and drizzle over the fries, then layer with the al pastor chicken, more Spicy Al Pastor BBQ Sauce, and pineapple salsa. Finish with an extra queso drizzle if desired.

Serve immediately and enjoy!


Tips for Success

  • Marinate in Advance: Letting the chicken marinate overnight intensifies the al pastor flavor.
  • Customizable Heat: Adjust the spiciness by adding or reducing jalapeño in the pineapple salsa.
  • Extra Saucy: Keep some Spicy Al Pastor BBQ Sauce on hand for drizzling after plating!

These loaded fries are the ultimate combination of sweet, spicy, and savory—perfect for indulging yourself or impressing a crowd. Try them with Tenayo’s unique sauce and elevate your next gathering with these unforgettable flavors!

Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries

Prepare yourself for a flavor fiesta with these Chicken Al Pastor Loaded Fries! This recipe layers crispy waffle fries with juicy, spicy al pastor chicken, creamy queso, and a punchy pineapple salsa that’ll keep you coming back for more. It’s a delicious balance of savory and sweet with a smoky, tropical flair, perfect for game day snacks, party platters, or even a satisfying dinner. Each bite combines tender marinated chicken with fresh pineapple salsa and spicy al pastor BBQ sauce, turning every fry into a decadent, flavor-packed treat. Grab a fork (or your hands!) and dive into this loaded creation—you’ll be savoring every last bite!
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time8 minutes
Course: Appetizer, chicken
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Keyword: air fryer, al pastor, chicken
Author: kingcooks

Equipment

  • Air Fryer

Ingredients

  • 1 cup queso store bought or make your own
  • 1 lb waffle fries store bought

Al Pastor Marinade

  • 2-3 lbs chicken thighs boneless and skinless
  • 1 cup spicy al pastor bbq sauce
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Pineapple Salsa

  • 1 cup pineapples diced
  • 14 cup red onion diced
  • 1 tbsp cilantro chopped
  • 1 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp jalapeno diced
  • 1 tsp vegetable oil
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/ tsp pepper

Instructions

Pineapple Salsa

  • In a large bowl add everything listed under “Pineapple Salsa” and mix thoroughly. Set in the fridge until ready to serve.

Al Pastor Marinade

  • In a large bowl add everything listed under “Al Pastor Marinade” and mix thoroughly. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the fridge.
  • Once ready, add the marinaded chicken thighs to your air fryer tray or basket. Air fry for 20-22 minutes flipping half way through. Cook until golden brown and each piece reaches an internal temperature of 165F.
  • Chop into bite size pieces and set aside.

Assemble

  • Bake or fry the waffle fries according to the packaging. Once cooked thoroughly and crispy, transfer to a serving dish.
  • Warm up your favorite queso and drizzle on top of the crispy waffle fries. Follow that up with the bite size pieces of spicy al pastor chicken, more spicy al pastor bbq sauce, the pineapple salsa and finish with more queso.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy!