Waffle Fry Farewell: Chick-fil-A Recipes to Ease the Transition
It’s a sad day for Chick-fil-A fans. The beloved waffle fries, a cornerstone of the menu and a fan favorite for decades, are being replaced by…drumroll please… a new lemon-herb marinated grilled chicken sandwich (which, admittedly, sounds delicious). While we’re excited to try the new offering, the departure of the waffle fries leaves a void in our hearts (and our stomachs). Fear not, fellow fry aficionados! This isn’t the end. We’re here to help you navigate this waffle fry-less world with a collection of recipes inspired by, and designed to complement, the classic Chick-fil-A experience.
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s take a moment to mourn the waffle fry. That crispy, uniquely shaped potato offering was more than just a side; it was an experience. The way the ridges perfectly held the sauce, the satisfying crunch with every bite…it will be missed. But as they say, when one fry closes, another one opens. Or, in this case, several recipes open!
## Recreating the Magic: Homemade Waffle Fries
Let’s start with the obvious: recreating the waffle fry at home. While it might not be *exactly* the same, these homemade versions are a delicious tribute and allow you to customize them to your liking.
**Recipe: Classic Homemade Waffle Fries**
**Ingredients:**
* 2 large russet potatoes, peeled
* 2 quarts vegetable oil, for frying
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Equipment:**
* Waffle cutter (mandoline with waffle blade)
* Large bowl
* Paper towels
* Deep fryer or large, heavy-bottomed pot
* Slotted spoon
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Potatoes:** Peel the russet potatoes. Using a waffle cutter or a mandoline with a waffle blade, carefully cut the potatoes into waffle shapes. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
2. **Soak the Fries:** Place the waffle-cut potatoes in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. This helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries. Soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, changing the water every 30 minutes.
3. **Dry the Fries:** Drain the potatoes well and pat them completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy fries. The drier the potatoes, the better they will fry.
4. **Prepare the Oil:** Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot to 325°F (160°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature. Maintaining the correct temperature is essential for even cooking.
5. **First Fry (Blanching):** Fry the waffle fries in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are slightly softened but not browned. Remove the fries with a slotted spoon and place them on a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain.
6. **Cool the Fries:** Let the fries cool completely for at least 30 minutes. This step is important for achieving that double-fried crispiness.
7. **Second Fry (Crisping):** Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the cooled waffle fries in batches for another 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
8. **Season and Serve:** Remove the fries from the oil and place them on a clean baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain. Immediately sprinkle them with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
**Tips for Perfect Waffle Fries:**
* **Choose the Right Potatoes:** Russet potatoes are ideal for frying due to their high starch content.
* **Soaking is Key:** Don’t skip the soaking step! It removes excess starch and helps create a crispy exterior.
* **Dry Thoroughly:** Make sure the fries are completely dry before frying. Moisture is the enemy of crispy fries.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer:** Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
* **Double Frying is Essential:** The double-frying method creates a perfectly crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.
* **Season Immediately:** Season the fries immediately after frying so the spices adhere properly.
## Alternative Fry Options: Beyond the Waffle
While we might be mourning the waffle fry, there are plenty of other delicious potato options to explore. Here are a few recipes that can fill the fry-shaped hole in your heart:
**Recipe: Spicy Sweet Potato Fries**
Sweet potato fries offer a healthier and more flavorful alternative to regular fries. This spicy version adds a kick that will keep you coming back for more.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:** Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into fry shapes. Try to make them relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
2. **Toss with Oil and Spices:** In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the fries are evenly coated.
3. **Bake or Air Fry:**
* **Baking:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the sweet potato fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until they are tender and slightly crispy.
* **Air Frying:** Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Place the sweet potato fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, or until they are tender and crispy.
4. **Serve:** Serve the spicy sweet potato fries hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sriracha mayo or a cool yogurt dip.
**Recipe: Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges**
These hearty potato wedges are packed with flavor and make a great side dish for any meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into wedges
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Potato Wedges:** Scrub the russet potatoes and cut them into wedges. You can leave the skin on for added nutrients and texture.
2. **Toss with Oil and Garlic:** In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil and minced garlic. Make sure they are evenly coated.
3. **Season and Bake:** Spread the potato wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown.
4. **Serve:** Serve the garlic Parmesan potato wedges hot as a side dish or appetizer.
## Complementary Sauces: The Chick-fil-A Experience
No fry (waffle or otherwise) is complete without the perfect dipping sauce. While Chick-fil-A’s signature sauce might be difficult to replicate exactly, here are a few homemade options inspired by their classic offerings:
**Recipe: Honey Mustard Sauce**
This sweet and tangy sauce is a classic pairing for fries and chicken.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt until smooth.
2. **Adjust to Taste:** Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more honey for sweetness or more lemon juice for tanginess.
3. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve with your favorite fries or chicken.
**Recipe: Copycat Chick-fil-A Sauce**
While the official recipe remains a secret, this version aims to capture the essence of the beloved sauce.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons honey mustard
* 1 tablespoon barbecue sauce
* 1 teaspoon lemon juice
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Pinch of smoked paprika
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth.
2. **Adjust to Taste:** Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more barbecue sauce for a smokier flavor or more lemon juice for tanginess.
3. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve with your favorite fries or chicken.
**Recipe: Spicy Mayo**
Add a kick to your dipping game with this simple and flavorful spicy mayo.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
* 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lemon juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
2. **Adjust to Taste:** Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more sriracha for extra heat.
3. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve with your favorite fries, chicken, or burgers.
## The Main Event: Chick-fil-A Inspired Chicken Recipes
Of course, no Chick-fil-A experience is complete without the chicken! Here are a few recipes inspired by their iconic chicken sandwiches and nuggets.
**Recipe: Classic Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich (Copycat)**
This recipe aims to recreate the magic of the original Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich, known for its simple yet delicious flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 cup pickle juice
* 1 cup milk
* 1 egg
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup powdered sugar
* 1 tablespoon salt
* 1 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* Vegetable oil, for frying
* 4 hamburger buns
* Pickle slices
* Butter, for toasting buns
**Instructions:**
1. **Marinate the Chicken:** Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour in the pickle juice. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The pickle juice tenderizes the chicken and adds a signature tang.
2. **Prepare the Breading:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the milk and egg. In another shallow dish, combine the flour, powdered sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This unique blend of spices and powdered sugar is key to the Chick-fil-A flavor.
3. **Bread the Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Dip each chicken breast in the milk and egg mixture, then dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing to ensure it is fully coated. Repeat the process for a thicker coating.
4. **Fry the Chicken:** Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 1/2 inch deep. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
5. **Toast the Buns:** While the chicken is frying, butter the hamburger buns and toast them in a skillet or toaster until lightly golden brown.
6. **Assemble the Sandwich:** Place a fried chicken breast on the bottom bun, top with pickle slices, and cover with the top bun. Serve immediately with your favorite fries and dipping sauce.
**Recipe: Chick-fil-A Style Chicken Nuggets (Copycat)**
These bite-sized nuggets are perfect for snacking or as a meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1/2 cup pickle juice
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1 egg
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup powdered sugar
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* Vegetable oil, for frying
**Instructions:**
1. **Marinate the Chicken:** Place the chicken pieces in a resealable bag and pour in the pickle juice. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
2. **Prepare the Breading:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the milk and egg. In another shallow dish, combine the flour, powdered sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. **Bread the Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Dip each chicken piece in the milk and egg mixture, then dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing to ensure it is fully coated.
4. **Fry the Chicken:** Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the breaded chicken nuggets in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet or fryer. Fry for about 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
5. **Serve:** Remove the chicken nuggets from the oil and place them on a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
## Sides to Complete the Meal
While the fries may be gone from Chick-fil-A’s menu, they have delicious coleslaw! Here is a recipe to bring that sides to your homes
**Recipe: Creamy Coleslaw**
**Ingredients:**
* 1 small head of green cabbage, finely shredded
* 1/2 cup shredded carrots
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Vegetables:** In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots.
2. **Make the Dressing:** In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. **Combine and Chill:** Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours, to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it chills, the better the flavors will develop.
4. **Adjust and Serve:** Before serving, give the coleslaw a good stir and taste to adjust the seasonings if needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or a touch more sugar, depending on your preference. Serve chilled as a side dish to your favorite meals.
## Embracing Change and Delicious New Beginnings
The news of Chick-fil-A ditching its iconic waffle fries might be disappointing, but it also presents an opportunity to explore new culinary adventures. By recreating your favorite Chick-fil-A dishes at home, experimenting with different fry options, and discovering new dipping sauces, you can keep the spirit of Chick-fil-A alive in your own kitchen. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! While we’ll always cherish the memories of the waffle fry, let’s embrace the change and welcome the delicious new beginnings that await.
And who knows, maybe you’ll discover your *own* signature fry recipe that’s even better than the original! Happy cooking!