These Loaded French Fries turn crispy oven-baked potatoes into a delicious side dish or game-day appetizer piled high with bacon, grilled chicken, green onions, and Parmesan cheese.
Prep Time15 minutesmins
40 minutesmins
Total Time55 minutesmins
Course: Appetizer, Dinner, Lunch, Main Course, Snack
Wash and optionally peel 8 medium Russet potatoes. Slice into uniform ¼-inch sticks using a knife or French fry cutter. Soak in cold water for 15 20 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat completely dry.
Place dried potato sticks in a large bowl. Toss with 3 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, ½ tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and a drizzle of olive oil until evenly coated.
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment or use a wire rack. Spread fries in a single layer and bake for 40 minutes, flipping halfway, until deep golden and crispy.
Pan-sear the bacon slices until crispy. Season the chicken thighs with paprika, salt, and pepper, and pan-sear them over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side until they reach 165°F. Chop the green onions & grate the Parmesan cheese.
Transfer hot fries to a platter. Layer with chicken, crumbled bacon, green onions, and Parmesan. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese. You can broil for 2-3 minutes once all the toppings are on top if desired.
Drizzle generously with creamy dill dressing or your preferred sauce. Serve immediately while fries are hot and crispy.
Notes
Don't Skip the Soak: 15 minutes removes starch for extra-crispy fries.
Pat Dry: Moisture = soggy fries; dry thoroughly.
Space Is Key: No overcrowding; use 2 wire racks or bake in batches.
Flip Once Only: One flip halfway ensures a crispy crust.
Add Toppings to Hot Fries: The eat melts cheese & warms toppings.
Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded won't melt as well.
Season Generously: Garlic, paprika, and salt make fries flavorful!