Have you ever ordered something you love, only to realize it’s not quite the same? That’s what’s been happening at Chick-fil-A lately. Their waffle fries, a fan favorite, have undergone a slight change. Some people are all about the new crispy texture, while others? Not so much. But hey, if you’re reading this, you’re probably wondering: what’s the deal with Chick-fil-A changed their fries? Let’s break it down—and maybe even try to recreate them at home! And if you’re in the mood for something sweet after those fries, why not check out this Maraschino Cherries Cheesecake Ice Cream? It’s a creamy, refreshing treat that pairs perfectly with any meal.
Ingredients for Chick-fil-A Changed Their Fries
To mimic the updated recipe, you’ll need a few pantry staples. Don’t worry—it’s nothing fancy.
- Russet potatoes: These are the heroes of any crispy fry recipe. Their high starch content makes them perfect.
- Pea starch: This is the “secret ingredient” Chick-fil-A added to improve that crunch. It’s optional but worth a shot if you’re experimenting.
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil: For frying. Peanut oil adds flavor, but stick with what you’ve got if allergies are a concern.
- Sea salt: Because fries without salt? Let’s not even go there.
- Optional: Paprika, garlic powder, or a sprinkle of black pepper if you’re feeling adventurous.
The best part? You probably have most of this stuff sitting in your kitchen already.
Tools and Equipment Needed
Before you roll up your sleeves, make sure you’ve got these tools handy:
- Mandoline slicer or crinkle cutter: This is how you’ll get that signature waffle shape. You can cut by hand, but it’s going to take patience (and some serious knife skills).
- Large bowl: You’ll need this for soaking the potatoes and washing off excess starch.
- Deep fryer or a deep pot: For that golden, crispy finish.
- Paper towels: Trust me, you’ll want these to soak up the extra oil.
- Tongs or slotted spoon: For handling the fries safely while they’re hot.
- Thermometer: Not a must, but helpful for keeping the oil at the right temperature (around 350°F).
Got everything? Great—let’s get frying!
How to Make Chick-fil-A Changed Their Fries: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep Your Potatoes
Start by washing the russet potatoes. Leave the skins on if you’re into that rustic vibe, or peel them if you like your fries smooth. Use a mandoline or crinkle cutter to slice the potatoes. The trick? Rotate the potato 90 degrees between slices to get that waffle pattern.
2. Soak the Slices
Throw the potato slices into a bowl of ice-cold water and let them sit for 20-30 minutes. This step washes off the extra starch and helps make the fries crispier. Don’t skip it unless you’re okay with soggy fries!
3. Parboil the Potatoes (Optional)
If you’ve got the time, parboil the slices for 2-3 minutes in salted water with a splash of vinegar. This step softens the inside of the potatoes, so they cook evenly when fried.
4. Cool and Freeze (Optional)
Let the slices cool, then lay them flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them in the freezer for 30 minutes. Freezing adds a bit of crunch during frying, but it’s not mandatory if you’re in a rush.
5. Heat the Oil
In a deep fryer or pot, heat your oil to around 350°F. Don’t guess—use a thermometer if you’ve got one.
6. Fry in Batches
Cook the potatoes in small batches to maintain the oil’s temperature. Let them fry for 2-3 minutes, just until they turn golden and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot—it’s an easy mistake that can mess up the results.
7. Season Immediately
While the fries are still hot, toss them in sea salt (or your favorite seasoning). This is where the magic happens!
Tips for Chick-fil-A Changed Their Fries
- Double-fry for extra crunch: Fry once at 300°F to cook the potatoes, then a second time at 375°F to crisp them up.
- Don’t skimp on the soak: Soaking in cold water removes starch, which makes fries crispier and less likely to stick together.
- Keep the oil clean: Strain it between batches if you’re frying a lot. Burnt crumbs can mess up the flavor.
- Use parchment paper: When freezing slices, it prevents them from sticking together.
And here’s the real trick: Serve them hot. Nobody likes cold fries, no matter how crispy they are.
Variations of Chick-fil-A Changed Their Fries
Who says you have to stick to the basics? Here are some fun spins on the classic waffle fry:
- Cheesy Waffle Fries: Melt shredded cheddar on top and add some crumbled bacon for good measure.
- Spicy Fries: Toss the fries in a blend of paprika, cayenne, and a hint of chili powder before frying.
- Garlic-Parmesan Fries: Sprinkle the fries with grated parmesan and minced garlic after they come out of the fryer.
- Sweet Potato Waffles: Swap out russets for sweet potatoes for a sweeter, more colorful twist.
- Loaded Fries: Think nacho toppings—sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, and a drizzle of queso.
The beauty of fries is you can make them your own. Whether you’re dipping them in ranch or going all out with toppings, there’s no wrong way to enjoy them.
Nutritional Benefits of Chick-fil-A Changed Their Fries
When Chick-fil-A changed their fries, it wasn’t just about the crispiness—it stirred up questions about nutrition too. While fries are not exactly a health food, there are a few bright sides to these crispy waffle wonders.
- Lower oil absorption: Thanks to the addition of pea starch, these fries might absorb less oil, making them slightly lighter than the traditional recipe.
- Rich in potassium: Russet potatoes, the base of these fries, are a natural source of potassium, which helps with muscle function and energy.
- No artificial additives: Chick-fil-A fries are known for their straightforward ingredient list. Even with the recipe change, they still stick to natural flavors.
Of course, moderation is key. These fries pair well with a salad or grilled chicken to keep things balanced. And let’s be honest—sometimes it’s okay to treat yourself without overthinking it.
Storage and Reheating Tips of Chick-fil-A Changed Their Fries
Got leftover fries? While they’re best fresh, there’s a way to bring them back to life.
How to Store
- Place the fries in an airtight container. This keeps them from drying out.
- Avoid stacking them while still hot—they’ll steam and lose their crunch.
Reheating Tips
- Oven method: Preheat your oven to 375°F, spread the fries on a baking sheet, and bake for 5-7 minutes.
- Air fryer: If you’ve got one, toss the fries in for 3-4 minutes at 350°F. They’ll crisp up nicely.
- Avoid the microwave: It makes the fries soggy and takes away that signature crunch.
With these tips, you’ll never have to toss out a batch of Chick-fil-A fries again.
Serving Suggestions for Chick-fil-A Changed Their Fries
These waffle fries are versatile enough to fit into almost any meal. Whether you’re keeping it simple or going all out, here are a few ideas:
- Classic pairing: Serve them with Chick-fil-A’s signature chicken sandwich and a side of Polynesian sauce.
- Loaded fries: Top them with melted cheese, chopped bacon, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a crowd-pleasing snack.
- Breakfast twist: Pair them with scrambled eggs and sausage for a hearty morning meal.
- Spicy side: Sprinkle on some Cajun seasoning for an extra kick.
These fries can also stand alone as a snack. Grab your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ve got a quick and satisfying treat.
FAQs
Why did Chick-fil-A change their fries?
The main reason was to improve the texture. By adding pea starch, the goal was to make the fries crispier and keep them crunchy for longer. While some fans love the new twist, others are still warming up to the change.
Did Chick-fil-A change something?
Yes, the fries now include pea starch in the recipe. This adjustment was made to boost their crunchiness, but the core ingredients—like russet potatoes—remain the same.
What brand waffle fries does Chick-fil-A use?
Chick-fil-A uses its own custom recipe for waffle fries, sourced from premium russet potatoes. The unique waffle-cut shape is part of what makes them so iconic.
What does Chick-fil-A fry their fries with?
The fries are cooked in 100% peanut oil. This not only adds flavor but also keeps them crispier compared to other oils.
A Beginner’s Guide to Chick-fil-A Changed Their Fries
If you’re new to the world of Chick-fil-A fries, here’s what you need to know:
- The Shape: The waffle design isn’t just for looks. It allows for even frying and gives each fry plenty of crispy edges.
- The Recipe Change: Chick-fil-A changed their fries by adding pea starch to improve texture. The goal? A crunchier fry that stays crispy longer.
- Best Pairings: Whether it’s a classic chicken sandwich or just a side of Chick-fil-A sauce, these fries shine with just about anything.
Give them a try, and you might just understand the hype.
Advanced Tips for Chick-fil-A Changed Their Fries
Want to take your waffle fry game to the next level? Here are some expert tricks:
- Double fry method: For homemade versions, fry them once at 325°F and again at 375°F for that restaurant-style crisp.
- Seasoning experiments: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder to elevate the flavor.
- Homemade dipping sauces: Whip up a quick honey mustard or sriracha mayo for a custom pairing.
- Freezing for later: Parboil and freeze potato slices in advance, so you always have fries ready to fry.
With these tips, you can create fries that rival Chick-fil-A’s—even with their updated recipe.
The Appeal of Chick-fil-A Changed Their Fries
What keeps people coming back for Chick-fil-A fries, even after the recipe tweak? It’s all about balance.
- Crunch factor: The new texture might not please everyone, but it does offer a longer-lasting crunch.
- Perfect size: The waffle cut makes them ideal for dipping, whether you prefer ketchup or Chick-fil-A’s signature sauces.
- Consistency: Even with the change, Chick-fil-A fries are known for their reliable flavor and texture.
Love them or not, these fries continue to spark debate—and that alone keeps them in the spotlight.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Chick-fil-A Changed Their Fries
Is it worth trying to recreate these fries at home? Let’s break it down.
Store-Bought Advantages
- Convenience: No prep, no mess—just open the bag and enjoy.
- Authenticity: You’re getting the exact flavor Chick-fil-A intended.
Homemade Wins
- Customization: Add your own seasoning or tweak the recipe to suit your taste.
- Cost-effective: Russet potatoes are cheaper than buying pre-made fries.
- Healthier options: Use less oil or bake them for a lighter version.
While store-bought fries save time, making them yourself can be a fun (and delicious) kitchen project.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a fan of the original fries or prefer the new crispy version, there’s no denying that Chick-fil-A changed their fries has been a hot topic. From the updated recipe to the endless ways you can enjoy them, these waffle fries continue to hold a special place in the fast-food world. Whether you’re ordering them straight from the menu or trying your hand at a homemade batch, one thing’s for sure: there’s always room for fries at the table.
