I’ve always admired the iconic texture of Chick-fil-A waffle fries, and after countless attempts, I’ve perfected a homemade recipe. Using russet potatoes and a double-frying method, these fries achieve that crispy exterior and tender interior we all crave. The secret lies in soaking the slices and seasoning them just right. If you’re curious about how to recreate this fast-food favorite at home, you’re about to discover the step-by-step process.
Recipe
If you’ve ever craved Chick-fil-A’s iconic waffle fries but wanted to recreate that crispy, golden perfection at home, you’re in for a treat. This recipe is the real deal—a spot-on copycat that delivers the same irresistible crunch and fluffy interior you know and love.
The secret? A double-fry technique and just a pinch of seasoning magic. Trust me, once you nail this, you’ll never look at store-bought fries the same way again.
Imagine biting into a fry that’s perfectly seasoned, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside—pure fry heaven. Whether you’re whipping these up for a snack, a side, or just because, you’re about to make your kitchen smell incredible.
Let’s get frying!
Ingredients
To nail Chick-fil-A’s iconic waffle fries at home, you’ll need the right potatoes and oil—plus a few insider tricks to get that crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside texture. Here’s what you’ll need (and why each one matters):
- Russet potatoes – The high starch content is key for crispiness. Avoid waxy varieties like red potatoes—they won’t fry up as light.
- Peanut oil – Chick-fil-A’s secret weapon! It has a high smoke point and adds that signature subtle nutty flavor. *Substitute:* Canola or vegetable oil in a pinch.
- Salt (fine grain) – Sticks better to hot fries than coarse salt. *Pro tip:* Toss them while they’re fresh out of the oil for maximum adherence.
- Sugar (optional) – A tiny pinch in the soaking water helps balance the potatoes’ natural earthiness—just like the original.
- Ice water – Soaking the cut fries in this before frying removes excess starch, preventing sogginess. *Non-negotiable step!*
*Little win:* For extra crunch, double-fry them—once at 325°F to cook through, then again at 375°F to golden perfection.
How to Make the Best Crispy Seasoned Waffle Fries
Arrange the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Crowding the pan will cause them to steam instead of crisp, so give them space.
For extra crunch, place them on a wire rack set over the baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This helps both sides crisp up evenly.
Keep an eye on them toward the end to prevent burning—every oven is different.
Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end if you want extra crispiness. Watch closely during this step, as the high heat can quickly go from golden to burnt.
Let the fries cool slightly before serving. This allows them to firm up and become even crispier.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of Parmesan cheese or chopped herbs over the fries right after baking while they’re still hot.
Watch Out! Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet or skipping the soaking step—both can lead to soggy fries. Patience is key for achieving Chick-fil-A-level crispiness.
Nutrition
Waffle fries from Chick-fil-A are a popular side dish, known for their crispy texture and unique shape. Below is the nutritional information for a standard serving.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 310mg |
| Total Carbs | 44g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 0g |
| Protein | 4g |
Chef Tips
Getting crispy, golden waffle fries at home isn’t as hard as you might think—it’s all about technique. I always soak the potato slices in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
Dry them thoroughly before frying to avoid splattering. Double-fry them: first at 325°F to cook through, then at 375°F for crunch.
Season immediately after frying for the best flavor. Simple tricks, perfect results.
