Description
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Fries
A spicy, cheesy masterpiece! Buffalo chicken fries drizzled with a creamy cheese sauce are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
Chicken: Cooked shredded chicken, buffalo sauce
Fries: Frozen fries, salt
Cheese Sauce: Butter, flour, milk, cheese, salt, pepper
Toppings: Extra buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, green onions
Instructions:
Cook fries to golden perfection.
Warm chicken in buffalo sauce.
Prepare cheese sauce and pour generously over fries.
Drizzle with extra buffalo sauce, garnish with herbs.
Delicious, spicy, and cheesy—what more could you ask for?
#BuffaloCheeseFries
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect plate of loaded fries.
- Cook the Fries: Preheat your oven according to the frozen fries package instructions. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, season with salt, and bake until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
- Prepare the Buffalo Chicken: While the fries cook, add your pre-cooked shredded chicken to a skillet over medium heat. Stir in your preferred amount of buffalo sauce until the chicken is evenly coated and heated through. Set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in an equal amount of flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Dish: On a large serving platter, create a base with the hot, crispy fries. Top evenly with the buffalo chicken. Pour the warm cheese sauce generously over everything.
- Final Touches: Drizzle with extra buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. Finish with a garnish of chopped green onions or fresh herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these loaded fries immediately while hot and gooey. They are perfect as a hearty game-day appetizer, a fun weekend dinner, or a shareable party snack. Pair with crisp celery sticks and carrot sticks to balance the heat and richness. For beverages, a cold beer, iced tea, or a creamy milkshake complements the spicy flavors beautifully.
How-to Summary
Bake fries until crispy. Warm shredded chicken in buffalo sauce. Create a simple cheese sauce from a butter-flour roux, milk, and shredded cheese. Assemble by layering fries, chicken, and cheese sauce. Top with extra buffalo sauce, ranch, and green onions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries? Absolutely. Cut potatoes into fry shapes, toss with oil and salt, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-35 minutes until crispy.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Use a mild buffalo sauce or even barbecue sauce for the chicken. You can also increase the amount of creamy ranch dressing to cool down each bite.
What’s the best cheese for the sauce? A good melting cheese like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a pre-shredded Mexican blend works perfectly. For a ultra-smooth sauce, add a slice of American cheese.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? Yes. The buffalo chicken and cheese sauce can be made 1-2 days ahead and reheated gently. Cook the fries fresh for the best texture.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reassemble on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through to maintain crispiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Soggy Fries: Ensure fries are baked until fully crispy and assemble just before serving.
- Lumpy Cheese Sauce: Add milk gradually to the roux while whisking constantly. Remove from heat before adding cheese.
- Overpowering Heat: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your taste. The cheese sauce and ranch help balance the spice.
- Cold Components: Have your chicken and cheese sauce hot and ready when the fries come out of the oven for the best melt.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Fries are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining familiar comfort food with bold, zesty flavors. By following this guide, you can easily create a restaurant-quality snack at home. Remember to customize the spice level, serve immediately, and enjoy the delicious, messy, and utterly satisfying results.
