The Standard Ingredients: Sea Salt and Canola Oil
For years, Chick-fil-A's waffle fries were known for their simple ingredients: sea salt and potatoes cooked in 100% canola oil. This approach provided a clean, potato-forward flavor that many customers enjoyed. The sea salt was traditionally applied immediately after frying to adhere to the warm, crispy surface.
The 2025 Recipe Adjustment: The Pea Starch Controversy
In early 2025, Chick-fil-A updated its waffle fry recipe by adding a pea starch coating. According to the company, this change aimed to keep the fries crispier for longer, particularly for delivery and drive-thru orders. However, the adjustment faced criticism from some customers who felt the texture became harder and the natural potato flavor was diminished. This change highlights the challenge of balancing product consistency with customer expectations and taste preferences.
Beyond the Fries: Sauces and Flavor Pairings
With the change in the fries' flavor profile, many customers have increasingly relied on Chick-fil-A's variety of dipping sauces. Popular choices include the classic Chick-fil-A® Sauce, Polynesian, Garden Herb Ranch, and Sweet & Spicy Sriracha. Pairing fries with these sauces allows customers to customize their experience and find enjoyable flavor combinations.
Comparing the Old and New Chick-fil-A Fries
| Feature | Old Recipe (Pre-2025) | New Recipe (Post-2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Coating | Simple potato exterior | Added pea starch coating |
| Crispiness | Crispiness varied depending on when served | Designed to stay crispier for longer periods |
| Flavor Profile | Natural, earthy potato flavor | Some customers report a blander, less potato-forward taste |
| Allergen Impact | Generally considered safe for most | Contains pea starch, which can be an issue for those with legume allergies |
| Customer Response | Widely beloved, iconic flavor | Mixed; some appreciate the extra crisp, many dislike the flavor change |
Crafting Copycat Fries at Home
For those who prefer the original taste, creating copycat Chick-fil-A fries at home is a popular option. Many recipes recommend soaking waffle-cut potatoes in cold water and vinegar to remove excess starch for crispiness. A double-frying method, first at a lower temperature then at a higher temperature, is often suggested for achieving the right texture. Seasoning with sea salt right after the final fry is key to replicating the original flavor. A homemade version of Chick-fil-A sauce typically includes a blend of mayonnaise, mustard, honey, and barbecue sauce. Joshua Weissman provides a popular recipe for homemade waffle fries.
Conclusion: The Enduring Quest for the Perfect Waffle Fry
The question "what is Chick-fil-A putting on their fries?" reveals a shift in the beloved menu item. While still seasoned with sea salt and cooked in canola oil, the 2025 addition of pea starch has created a divide among fans. Some appreciate the enhanced crispiness, while others miss the original flavor. This change underscores how even minor alterations can significantly impact a product's identity and customer perception. The fries remain a staple, but for many, the perfect Chick-fil-A fry experience now often involves pairing them with one of the restaurant's signature sauces.
