What Makes Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries So Popular?

There's something special about Chick-fil-A waffle fries . They’re crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and perfectly salted. Unlike regular fries, their unique waffle shape provides an ideal balance of crunch and softness in every bite. Plus, their large surface area holds onto dips and sauces exceptionally well, making them the perfect side for a Chick-fil-A meal . Another reason these fries are beloved is their simplicity. Made with just potatoes, peanut oil, and salt, their deliciousness comes from proper preparation rather than complicated ingredients. Whether you’re a Chick-fil-A fan or just love good fries, replicating these at home is a must-try experience!

Hand-Cutting vs. Machine-Cutting – Which Works Best?

If you don’t have a mandoline slicer, you can still cut waffle fries by hand: Use a sharp knife to create crinkle cuts. Carefully rotate the potato 90 degrees after each cut to mimic the waffle design. While this method works, it takes more time and may not be as precise as a mandoline.

How to deep-fry waffle fries?:

Heat peanut oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 325°F (163°C) . Fry in small batches for about 3 minutes , just until the fries start to turn light golden. Remove the fries and let them rest on a cooling rack for 5 minutes . Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry again for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and immediately sprinkle with salt.

How to Bake Waffle Fries for a Healthier Alternative?

Baking Instructions: Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C) . Toss the fries with a small amount of oil and salt . Spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes , flipping halfway through for even crispiness. While baking won’t achieve the exact texture of fried Chick-fil-A waffle fries , it still delivers a delicious and healthier option!

Can I make Chick-fil-A waffle fries without a waffle cutter?

Yes! While a waffle fry cutter or mandoline slicer is the easiest way to achieve the classic shape, you can also use a sharp knife . Simply make crinkle-cut slices, then rotate the potato 90 degrees and slice again to form the waffle pattern.

How do I get my waffle fries crispy like Chick-fil-A?

Achieving maximum crispiness depends on a few key steps: Soak the fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Double-fry them – The first fry cooks the inside, while the second fry creates a crispy outer layer. Use peanut oil for frying, just like Chick-fil-A does.

What type of oil does Chick-fil-A use for their waffle fries?

Chick-fil-A uses 100% refined peanut oil to fry their waffle fries. This oil gives them a light, crispy texture while adding a subtle nutty flavor. If you’re allergic to peanuts, you can substitute with canola or vegetable oil .

Can I freeze homemade waffle fries for later?

Absolutely! To freeze: Parboil the cut fries for 2-3 minutes , then let them cool. Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours . Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months . When ready to cook, fry, bake, or air-fry directly from frozen—no need to thaw!

Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries Recipe – Crispy & Easy to Make!

Description

Make crispy Chick-fil-A waffle fries at home with this easy recipe! Learn the best methods for deep-frying, air-frying, and baking

Ingredients

Scale

2 large Russet potatoes
Peanut oil for frying
Salt to taste

Cold water for soaking

Instructions

Prepare the potatoes: Wash and cut the Russet potatoes into waffle fries using a mandoline slicer or waffle cutter.
Soak the fries: Place the sliced waffle fries in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
Heat the oil: Heat peanut oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 325°F (163°C).
Fry the waffle fries: Fry the potatoes in batches for 3 minutes, remove, rest for 5 minutes, then fry again at 375°F (190°C) for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Drain and season: Place the fries on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and season immediately with salt.

Notes

Calories: 420 kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 24g
Protein: 5g

Sodium: 370mg

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Lunch
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 420 kcal
Sodium: 370mg
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 5g

Keywords: Chick-fil-A waffle fries recipe, crispy waffle fries, homemade waffle fries, air fryer waffle fries