Loaded Chicken Shawarma Fries – Crispy, Saucy, and Irresistibly Bold
Few dishes capture pure comfort and bold flavor quite like loaded fries, and these Loaded Chicken Shawarma Fries take things to a whole new level. Inspired by Middle Eastern street food, this recipe combines crispy golden fries with warmly spiced chicken shawarma, finished with creamy garlic sauce and fresh, crunchy toppings. It’s indulgent, vibrant, and completely addictive—in the best possible way.
Chicken shawarma is known for its aromatic spices, juicy texture, and deep savory flavor. Traditionally cooked on a vertical spit, shawarma has found its way into home kitchens through clever marinades and high-heat cooking methods that replicate that signature taste. When paired with fries, the result is a dish that feels both familiar and exciting: comfort food meets global flavor.
What makes Loaded Chicken Shawarma Fries especially fun is how customizable they are. You can pile them high with sauces, keep them simple and classic, or turn them into a full meal with generous portions of protein and fresh vegetables. They’re perfect for sharing, ideal for casual dinners, and guaranteed to steal the spotlight at game nights or gatherings.
This recipe balances richness with freshness. The fries and chicken bring warmth and savoriness, while tomatoes, cucumbers, herbs, and lemon cut through with brightness. Every bite delivers contrast—crispy and tender, creamy and fresh, bold and balanced.
Ingredients:
- Frozen or fresh French fries
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Olive oil
- Plain yogurt
- Lemon juice
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Ground cumin
- Ground coriander
- Smoked paprika
- Ground turmeric
- Ground cinnamon
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Greek yogurt (for sauce)
- Mayonnaise
- Lemon juice (for sauce)
- Garlic paste
- Cherry tomatoes, diced
- English cucumber, diced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional chili sauce or hot sauce
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
- Cook the fries according to package instructions or bake fresh-cut fries until golden and crispy. Keep warm.
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until deeply browned and fully cooked.
- Remove chicken from heat and let rest briefly, then slice into thin strips.
- In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic paste, and salt to create a creamy garlic sauce.
- Assemble the fries on a serving platter. Top with sliced chicken shawarma.
- Drizzle generously with garlic sauce and optional chili sauce.
- Finish with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, fresh parsley, and a final squeeze of lemon. Serve immediately.
Loaded Chicken Shawarma Fries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate chicken with yogurt, spices, garlic, lemon, and olive oil.
- Cook fries until crispy and golden.
- Cook marinated chicken over high heat until browned and cooked through.
- Prepare garlic sauce and assemble fries with chicken, sauce, and toppings.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Chicken thighs stay juicier, but breasts work well if cooked carefully.
- High heat helps replicate the charred shawarma flavor.
- Serve immediately to keep fries crispy.
Variations
- Swap fries for sweet potato fries.
- Add pickled turnips or red onions for tang.
- Make it cheesy with shredded mozzarella or feta.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm pita or flatbread on the side.
- Pair with a simple green salad or tabbouleh.
- Perfect as a shared appetizer or casual main dish.
Storage Information
- Store chicken separately from fries for up to 3 days.
- Reheat chicken in a skillet; reheat fries in the oven or air fryer.
- Sauces should be refrigerated and used within 3 days.
FAQ
- Can I bake the chicken? Yes, bake at 200°C for 20–25 minutes.
- Is this spicy? Mild by default, but easily adjustable with chili sauce.
- Can I meal prep this? Prep components separately for best texture.
History / Fun Facts
Shawarma is a beloved Middle Eastern street food with roots in the Ottoman Empire. Traditionally slow-roasted and shaved, its flavors have inspired countless modern adaptations. Loaded fries are a newer comfort-food trend, and combining the two creates a dish that celebrates both tradition and creativity.
