Introduction
When it comes to fast-food favorites, few items have as much cult following as Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries. Their crispy texture, signature waffle-cut design, and perfectly seasoned flavor make them a must-have side for millions of customers. But what makes them stand out from traditional French fries?
In this guide, we’ll explore the history, unique qualities, and even recent changes to Chick-fil-A’s waffle fries. Plus, we’ll share a copycat recipe so you can enjoy them at home.
Table of Contents
History of Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries
The story of Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries dates back to the brand’s early expansion when they sought to offer a unique potato side dish beyond conventional fast-food fries.
- Introduced to the menu decades ago, they quickly became a signature item.
- Their distinctive waffle shape was inspired by the desire to provide more surface area for crispiness.
- They have remained largely unchanged—until recently.
Curious about how Chick-fil-A sources its potatoes? Here’s a look at their suppliers.
What Makes Waffle Fries Unique?
Unlike traditional fast-food French fries, Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries offer a different texture and flavor experience:
- Waffle-Cut Design: The criss-cut shape allows for a perfect balance of crispiness and fluffiness.
- More Dipping Potential: Their larger surface area holds more sauce per bite.
- Thicker Texture: Unlike thin-cut fries, waffle fries have a fluffy potato interior with a crisp, golden exterior.
Want to try making your own version at home? Check out this copycat recipe.
Ingredients and Preparation
One of the biggest factors that contribute to the iconic taste of Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries is the high-quality ingredients and cooking method.
- Sourced from quality potatoes—typically Russet potatoes for optimal texture.
- Cut into a criss-cross shape using a specialized waffle fry cutter.
- Deep-fried in peanut oil to maintain a light, crisp texture.
- Lightly seasoned with sea salt for a simple yet satisfying flavor.
Nutritional Information
For those conscious about fast-food nutrition, here’s what you need to know:
- Calories per medium serving: ~360 kcal
- Fat content: ~18g (mostly from the peanut oil frying process)
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Protein: ~5g
Check Chick-fil-A’s official nutrition guide here for more details on allergens and ingredients.
Recent Changes to the Recipe
Chick-fil-A fans recently noticed a difference in the taste and texture of their beloved waffle fries. The fast-food chain confirmed a recipe adjustment, including:
- The addition of pea starch to the seasoning mix.
- A slight change in texture, making them less crispy than before.
- Mixed reactions from customers, with some calling for a return to the original recipe.
These changes have sparked online discussions and customer feedback, with some loyal fans expressing disappointment over the new formulation.
How to Make Chick-fil-A Style Waffle Fries at Home
Craving Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries but don’t want to leave home? Here’s how you can recreate them from scratch:
Ingredients
- 2 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup peanut oil (for frying)
- Salt to taste
- Optional: Paprika or garlic powder for extra seasoning
Method
- Sourcing High-Quality Potatoes
- Chick-fil-A uses Russet potatoes, known for their ideal starch content and fluffy texture.
2. Cutting into Waffle Shapes
- The potatoes are sliced using a waffle fry cutter, which creates the criss-cross shape for maximum crispiness and dipping potential.
3. Blanching (Boiling) for Texture
- The cut fries are parboiled (partially boiled) in hot water for a short time.
- This step helps remove excess starch, ensuring a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender.
- It also partially cooks the fries, reducing frying time later.
4. Drying for Optimal Crispiness
- The fries are thoroughly dried to remove excess moisture.
- This prevents oil splattering and ensures a crisp, even fry.
5. Deep-Frying in Peanut Oil
- The fries are cooked in 100% refined peanut oil at precise temperatures to achieve their perfect golden-brown crunch.
- Chick-fil-A uses dedicated fryers, ensuring the fries stay gluten-free and free from cross-contamination.
6. Seasoning with Salt
- Immediately after frying, the fries are lightly seasoned with sea salt to enhance their natural potato flavor.
For more delicious homemade fry recipes, check out our Fried Cheese Stuffed Doritos and Oven-Fried Chicken Chimichangas.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries with these popular menu items:
- Chick-fil-A Sauce – The ultimate dipping sauce.
- Spicy Chicken Sandwich – A crispy and flavorful combination.
- Fresh Lemonade – A refreshing balance to the savory fries.
About Peanut Oil
Peanut oil is one of the key secrets behind the signature crispiness and delicious taste of Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries. Unlike other oils, peanut oil has a high smoke point (around 450°F), making it perfect for deep frying without breaking down or burning quickly. This allows the waffle fries to achieve that golden-brown crunch while staying light and non-greasy. Another advantage of peanut oil is its neutral yet slightly nutty flavor, which enhances the fries without overpowering their natural potato taste.
Additionally, Chick-fil-A exclusively uses 100% refined peanut oil, which is free of allergenic proteins, making it safe for most people with peanut allergies. Compared to alternatives like canola or vegetable oil, peanut oil provides a superior texture, locking in moisture while delivering a crispy bite every time. It also resists flavor transfer, ensuring that each batch of fries tastes consistently fresh. Whether you’re trying to recreate Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries at home or simply looking for the best cooking oil for deep frying, peanut oil remains one of the top choices for achieving restaurant-quality crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the ingredients in Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries?
Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries are made with simple and high-quality ingredients to maintain their signature taste and texture. The key ingredients include:
Potatoes – Typically Russet potatoes, known for their fluffy interior and crispy exterior.
Peanut Oil – Chick-fil-A exclusively uses 100% refined peanut oil for frying, which gives the fries their light, non-greasy texture.
Salt – A simple sea salt seasoning enhances the natural potato flavor.
Pea Starch (New Addition) – Recently, Chick-fil-A added pea starch to the seasoning, which has slightly altered the texture and crispiness.
These minimal ingredients make Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries a straightforward yet delicious fast-food staple.
How does Chick-fil-A make their fries?
The process of making Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries is meticulously crafted to achieve their perfect crispiness and fluffy texture. The preparation involves:
Sourcing Fresh Potatoes – The fries are made from high-quality Russet potatoes, ensuring a fluffy interior and crispy shell.
Cutting with a Waffle Fry Cutter – Potatoes are sliced using a specialized criss-cross cutter to achieve the iconic waffle shape.
Soaking and Drying – The slices are rinsed and dried to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a crispy texture.
Deep Frying in Peanut Oil – Fries are cooked in 100% refined peanut oil at precise temperatures to ensure a crispy exterior and soft inside.
Seasoning with Salt – Immediately after frying, the fries are lightly salted, enhancing their natural potato flavor.
This five-step process ensures that every batch of Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries meets the brand’s golden standard of quality.
How to make waffle fries without a crinkle cutter?
If you don’t have a waffle fry cutter, you can still make Chick-fil-A-style Waffle Fries using a sharp knife and a bit of technique. Here’s how:
Method Using a Knife:
Use a Sharp Chef’s Knife – Choose a large, sturdy knife with a sharp edge.
Make Vertical Slices – Cut the potato into thin slices (about ¼ inch thick).
Rotate 90 Degrees and Cut Again – Turn the potato perpendicular and slice again, creating a criss-cross pattern.
Soak in Cold Water – Soaking the slices in cold water for 30 minutes helps remove starch for a crispier texture.
Dry and Fry – Dry the slices thoroughly and deep-fry them in peanut oil at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown.
Season Immediately – Sprinkle with salt or your preferred seasoning.
While this method won’t be exactly like Chick-fil-A’s factory-cut fries, it gets very close in texture and taste!
Does Chick-fil-A fry their fries in a separate fryer?
Yes! Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries are cooked in dedicated fryers that are used only for fries. This ensures:
✅ No cross-contamination with meat or other allergens.
✅ Consistently clean and fresh oil for crispy, golden fries.
✅ Gluten-free friendly option, since the fryer is not shared with breaded items.
Because Chick-fil-A uses 100% refined peanut oil, many people with nut allergies can safely enjoy their fries. However, it’s always best to double-check with the restaurant staff if you have any specific dietary concerns.
Conclusion
There’s no doubt that Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries hold a special place in the hearts of fast-food lovers. Their crunchy yet fluffy texture, deliciously simple seasoning, and versatile dipping potential make them a top-tier side dish.
While the recent recipe change has stirred controversy, Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries remain a fan favorite. If you’re craving them at home, try our copycat recipe for a homemade alternative!
💬 What do you think about the new Chick-fil-A waffle fries? Let us know in the comments!
