Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries Recipe – Easy Copycat Guide

Key Takeaways

• Learn how to make restaurant-quality waffle fries at home with simple ingredients
• Discover the secret to achieving Chick-fil-A’s signature crispy exterior and fluffy interior
• Master three variations: classic potato, sweet potato, and air fryer waffle fries
• Find the right waffle fry cutter for perfect crinkle patterns every time
• Enjoy customizable seasoning options beyond Chick-fil-A’s classic salt

Introduction

Few side dishes inspire the same devotion as Chick-fil-A’s waffle potato fries. Those perfectly golden, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside potato waffles have become legendary. While nothing beats the convenience of drive-thru fries, making your own Chick-fil-A waffle fries at home can be both satisfying and delicious.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through creating authentic-tasting Chick-fil-A waffle fries right in your kitchen. Whether you prefer traditional deep-fried potatoes, healthier sweet potato alternatives, or convenient air fryer methods, we’ve got you covered. Let’s unlock the secrets to these iconic crisscross potato delights!

What Makes Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries Special?

Chick-fil-A waffle fries stand out from ordinary fries for several key reasons:

1. Distinctive waffle cut creates more surface area for optimal crispiness
2. Peanut oil frying gives them their characteristic flavor
3. Two-step cooking process ensures the perfect texture combination
4. Simple but precise seasoning enhances natural potato flavor

Let’s dive into making these beloved fries at home!

Classic Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries Copycat Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4

Yield: About 4 cups of waffle fries

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes, washed and dried
• 6 cups peanut oil (or alternative oils like coconut, olive, or avocado)
• Fine sea salt

Equipment Needed

• Waffle fry cutter or mandoline slicer with waffle blade
• Deep fryer or large, deep pot
• Cooking thermometer
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer
• Paper towels or cooling rack
• Large bowl for soaking potatoes

Instructions

1. Prep the potatoes:
   • Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly, leaving the skin on for authentic Chick-fil-A style.
   • Using a waffle fry cutter or mandoline with waffle blade attachment, cut the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick waffle slices.
2. Soak the potato slices:
   • Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water.
   • Let them soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator).
   • This removes excess starch and helps achieve the perfect crispy exterior.
3. Dry thoroughly:
   • Drain the potatoes and rinse with fresh cold water.
   • Lay the potato slices on paper towels or clean kitchen towels.
   • Pat them completely dry – this is crucial for crispy fries!
4. Heat the oil:
   • In a deep fryer or large pot, heat the peanut oil to 325°F (165°C).
   • Use a cooking thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
5. First fry (blanching):
   • Working in small batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully add potato slices to the hot oil.
   • Fry for 3-4 minutes until they’re soft but not browned.
   • Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain.
6. Second fry (crisping):
   • Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C).
   • Return the blanched potato slices to the hot oil.
   • Fry for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
7. Season immediately:
   • Transfer the hot fries to a paper towel-lined plate or bowl.
   • Sprinkle generously with fine sea salt while still hot.
   • Toss gently to ensure even coating.
8. Serve hot:
   • For the authentic Chick-fil-A experience, serve immediately in a paper-lined container.

Sweet Potato Waffle Fries Variation

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 2-3

Yield: About 3 cups of sweet potato waffle fries

Ingredients

• 2 sweet potatoes (about 1 lb./500 g total)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Prepare the sweet potatoes:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
   • Wash and dry sweet potatoes thoroughly.
   • Using your waffle fry cutter, slice into 1/4-inch thick waffle cuts.
2. Season the fries:
   • Place sweet potato slices in a large bowl.
   • Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
   • Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices if using.
3. Arrange for baking:
   • Spread sweet potato waffle fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
   • Make sure they don’t overlap to ensure even cooking.
4. Bake to perfection:
   • Bake for 10 minutes, then flip each piece.
   • Continue baking for another 8-10 minutes until edges are crispy and center is tender.
5. Serve:
   • Transfer to serving dish and add additional seasonings if desired.
   • Sweet potato waffle fries pair wonderfully with cinnamon-sugar for a sweet treat or additional salt for a savory option.

Air Fryer Waffle Fries Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 17 minutes

Servings: 2

Yield: About 2 cups of waffle fries

Ingredients

• 1 package of frozen sweet potato waffle fries (e.g., Alexia Seasoned Waffle Cut Fries)
• Cooking spray (such as grapeseed, vegetable, or avocado oil)
• Optional seasonings of your choice

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer:
   • Set temperature to 400°F (200°C).
   • Allow to preheat for 3-5 minutes.
2. Prepare the basket:
   • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
   • This prevents sticking and adds a touch of extra crispiness.
3. Arrange the fries:
   • Place frozen waffle fries in the basket in a single layer.
   • Avoid overcrowding for best results.
4. Cook the fries:
   • Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking time.
   • Check for desired crispiness and add 1-2 minutes if needed.
5. Season and serve:
   • Transfer to serving dish and season immediately if desired.
   • Enjoy while hot and crispy!

Choosing the Right Waffle Fry Cutter

The distinctive crosshatch pattern of Chick-fil-A waffle fries requires specific equipment. Here are your best options:

For most home cooks, a quality mandoline with a waffle blade attachment offers the best combination of versatility and results.

Tips for Perfect Chick-fil-A Style Waffle Fries

Potato Selection and Preparation

• Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes provide the ideal starch content and texture
• Keep skin on: Authentic Chick-fil-A fries retain their skins for extra flavor and texture
• Cold water soak: Don’t skip this step! It removes excess starch that would make fries soggy
• Dry thoroughly: Any residual moisture will cause oil to splatter and prevent proper crisping

Frying Technique

• Oil temperature matters: Use a thermometer for consistent results
• Double-fry method: The two-stage frying process is essential for creating the perfect texture
• Work in batches: Overcrowding the fryer will drop the oil temperature and result in soggy fries
• Drain properly: Remove excess oil by draining on paper towels before serving

Seasoning Secrets

• Season hot: Apply salt immediately after removing from the fryer while fries are still hot
• Less is more: Start with a light hand – you can always add more seasoning

Customizing Your Waffle Fries

While Chick-fil-A keeps it simple with just salt, homemade versions can be customized with various flavors:

Seasoning Ideas

• Garlic Parmesan: Garlic powder, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley
• Spicy Cajun: Paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder
• Ranch Style: Dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of buttermilk powder
• Sweet and Savory: Brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt (great for sweet potato waffle fries)

Dipping Sauce Pairings

• Classic: Chick-fil-A sauce (blend of BBQ, ranch, and honey mustard)
• Spicy: Sriracha mayo or buffalo sauce
• Gourmet: Truffle aioli or herb-infused ketchup
• Sweet: Maple syrup (especially for sweet potato waffle fries)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Classic Chick-fil-A Style Waffle Fries

• Calories: 340
• Total Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 210mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 43g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 5g

Sweet Potato Waffle Fries

• Calories: 160
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 23g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 2g

Air Fryer Frozen Waffle Fries

• Calories: 140
• Total Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 240mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 22g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 0g
• Protein: 2g

Storing and Reheating Leftover Waffle Fries

While waffle fries are best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored and reheated:

Storage Methods

1. Refrigeration:
   • Allow fries to cool completely
   • Store in an airtight container with paper towels to absorb moisture
   • Refrigerate for up to 3 days
2. Freezing (par-fried only):
   • Complete the first fry
   • Cool completely, then freeze in a single layer
   • Once frozen, transfer to freezer bags
   • Store for up to 3 months

Reheating Methods

Common Troubleshooting

Problem: Fries are soggy, not crispy

• Solution: Make sure potatoes are completely dry before frying
• Solution: Check that oil temperature is correct (too low = soggy fries)
• Solution: Don’t skip the double-fry method

Problem: Fries are burning on the outside but raw inside

• Solution: Lower oil temperature for first fry
• Solution: Cut fries to consistent thickness
• Solution: Don’t skip the soaking step

Problem: Waffle pattern isn’t distinct

• Solution: Ensure waffle cutter/mandoline is sharp
• Solution: Cut slowly and deliberately
• Solution: Choose firmer potatoes

Conclusion

With these detailed instructions and tips, you’re now ready to recreate the beloved Chick-fil-A waffle potato fries experience in your own kitchen. Whether you choose traditional deep-fried potatoes, healthier baked sweet potato variations, or convenient air fryer methods, you can enjoy that distinctive waffle fry texture and flavor any day of the week – even Sundays!

Remember, the keys to success are properly cut potatoes, the right cooking technique, and immediate seasoning. With a little practice, your homemade waffle fries might become so good that you’ll find yourself craving your own creations instead of heading to the drive-thru.

So grab your waffle fry cutter, heat up that oil (or preheat that air fryer), and get ready to enjoy one of America’s favorite side dishes, made fresh in your own kitchen.