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Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries
Golden, crispy waffle-cut fries with a lightly seasoned, crunchy exterior and fluffy potato center. These homemade Chick-fil-A-style waffle fries are the perfect side for chicken sandwiches or dipping in your favorite sauce.
fast-food · chick-fil-a · side · snack
🕑Prep20 min
🍳Cook15 min
⏱Total35 min
🍽Serves4
⭐DifficultyMedium
Ingredients
- 2 pounds russet potatoes (about 4 medium)
- Peanut oil or vegetable oil for frying
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar
- Pinch of black pepper
Instructions
- 1.Cut the waffle shape. Using a crinkle-cut mandoline slicer, slice each potato on one setting, then rotate the potato 90 degrees and slice again. This creates the waffle/lattice pattern. Cut to about 1/4-inch thickness. Soak the slices in cold water for at least 30 minutes.
- 2.Dry the fries completely. Drain the soaked potatoes and spread them on a clean kitchen towel. Pat them dry and let them air-dry for a few minutes. Moisture is the enemy of crispy fries.
- 3.First fry. Heat oil to 325°F. Fry the waffle fries in batches for 3-4 minutes until they're cooked through but still pale. Remove to a wire rack and let rest for 5 minutes.
- 4.Second fry. Increase oil to 375°F. Fry again in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. The waffle shape creates extra surface area, so they crisp up beautifully.
- 5.Mix the seasoning. Combine the salt, garlic powder, paprika, sugar, and black pepper. Toss the hot fries with the seasoning immediately after the second fry.
- 6.Serve with sauce. Serve hot alongside Chick-fil-A sauce, ranch, or ketchup.
Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries
Prep time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes soaking)
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries are the most beloved side item in fast food. They’re waffle-cut for maximum crunch and dipping surface area, lightly seasoned, and fried until golden. The lattice shape means every bite has a mix of crispy edges and tender potato — it’s engineered perfection.
The biggest challenge at home is getting the waffle cut right. You need a crinkle-cut mandoline slicer (they’re about $15), but once you have one, the actual cooking is straightforward double-frying.
Why Make It at Home?
A medium waffle fry at Chick-fil-A costs about $2.85. This recipe makes a huge batch — enough for four generous servings — for around $2.50 total. The homemade version is also fried fresh, not from frozen, which makes a real difference in texture and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- The mandoline is non-negotiable. You cannot cut waffle fries with a knife. Get a crinkle-cut mandoline with a waffle setting. It’s a one-time purchase that pays for itself.
- Peanut oil for authenticity. Chick-fil-A fries in peanut oil, which gives a subtle nutty flavor. Vegetable oil works if you have peanut allergies.
- Don’t skip the sugar in the seasoning. Just a quarter teaspoon helps the fries brown and adds a subtle sweetness that balances the salt.
- Make Chick-fil-A sauce at home. Mix 3 tablespoons mayo, 1 tablespoon mustard, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon BBQ sauce, and a splash of lemon juice.
