Chick-fil-A’s small waffle fries contain approximately 270 calories. This serving size of fries contains 10 grams of fat, 36 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of protein.
Nutrition Facts for Chick-fil-A Small Waffle Fries
Here are the nutrition facts for a small order of Chick-fil-A waffle fries:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 270 |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Protein | 3g |
As you can see, a small order of waffle fries contains 270 calories, which makes up a decent portion of a typical 2000 calorie daily diet. The majority of the calories come from carbohydrates and fat.
Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries Nutrition Compared to Other Fries
How does the nutrition information for Chick-fil-A’s waffle fries compare to fries from other fast food restaurants?
Here’s a comparison of the calories and fat in a small serving of fries from several popular fast food chains:
| Restaurant | Fries Calories | Fries Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|
| Chick-fil-A (small waffle fries) | 270 | 10 |
| McDonald’s (small french fries) | 230 | 10 |
| Wendy’s (small natural fries) | 260 | 11 |
| Burger King (small french fries) | 230 | 10 |
Chick-fil-A’s small waffle fries have slightly more calories and fat compared to fries from McDonald’s and Burger King. Wendy’s small natural cut fries come closest with 260 calories and 11 grams of fat.
The shape and cooking method contribute to the differences. Chick-fil-A fries are cut into a waffle shape and fried in refined peanut oil. The waffle cut gives the fries more surface area to absorb oil during cooking.
Are Chick-fil-A Fries Healthy?
While Chick-fil-A’s waffle fries taste delicious, they are not one of the healthier menu options in terms of fat and calories. A small order accounts for 13% of a 2000 calorie diet. They also lack fiber, vitamins, and other nutrients.
Some healthier sides at Chick-fil-A include:
- Fruit cup
- Chicken noodle soup
- Kale crunch side salad
- Broccoli cheddar soup
- Greek yogurt parfait
These options have fewer calories, less fat, and provide more beneficial nutrients. The yogurt parfait for example contains just 140 calories and 12 grams of protein plus calcium.
While the waffle fries aren’t the most nutritious menu choice, they can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet. Some tips for lightening them up:
- Order a small versus a large size
- Share with a friend to reduce portion size
- Dip in ketchup or barbeque sauce instead of creamy sauces like Chick-fil-A sauce
- Eat slowly and mindfully to savor the flavor
- Pair with a healthier side like fruit or a salad
Cooking Chick-fil-A Style Waffle Fries at Home
To recreate the taste of Chick-fil-A fries at home, you’ll need just a few ingredients:
- Potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold work best
- Oil – Use peanut oil if possible for flavor
- Salt
- Waffle cut fry maker
Steps:
- Cut washed potatoes into waffle fries using a waffle cutter or mandoline.
- Soak cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove starch.
- Dry fries thoroughly with a towel.
- Heat 3-4 inches of oil to 325°F in pot. Peanut oil provides the signature flavor.
- Fry waffle fries in batches for 4-5 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towel lined plate.
- Season immediately with salt while still hot.
- Serve fries hot and enjoy!
Baking the fries is a bit healthier method. After cutting, soak and dry the potatoes. Toss with a tablespoon of oil then spread in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes then flip and bake 10 more minutes until browned and crisp.
Chick-fil-A Waffle Fries Calories in Different Sizes
Chick-fil-A offers 3 different sizes of waffle fries. The calorie counts increase with larger portions:
| Fry Size | Calories |
|---|---|
| Small | 270 |
| Medium | 380 |
| Large | 500 |
As shown, the small clocks in at 270 calories. Jumping up to the medium size brings the total calories to 380. Finally, the large order of fries contains 500 calories.
When determining what size to order, be mindful of your total daily calorie needs. A small or medium is more appropriate for most people. Or, you can order a large and share with a friend to reduce the calories.
Tips for Enjoying Chick-fil-A Fries in Moderation
Here are some tips to keep in mind when occasionally treating yourself to Chick-fil-A’s delicious waffle fries:
- Stick to the small size to keep calories manageable
- Order them as your side instead of also getting chips, salads or other sides
- Eat slowly and mindfully, savoring each bite
- Skip the dipping sauces or use sparingly to limit excess fat and sodium
- Pair with grilled chicken and a fruit cup for a healthier combo meal
- Split with a friend or take half home for later
- Drink water instead of sugar-filled soda
- Balance out the indulgence by choosing healthy meals and snacks for the rest of the day
Using these tips, you can keep your overall diet in check while still enjoying Chick-fil-A’s signature waffle fries occasionally.
Healthier Ways to Prepare Fries at Home
You can lighten up french fries at home by:
- Using fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries
- Leave the skin on for more fiber and nutrients
- Try new potatoes, sweet potatoes, or jicama for variety
- Use olive oil or avocado oil instead of peanut oil for frying
- Season with herbs and spices instead of just salt
- Bake or air fry instead of deep frying
- Portion into snack bags to control serving sizes
With some simple tweaks, you can still enjoy the crunch and flavor of fries at home while boosting the nutritional value. Moderation and portion control is key.
The Bottom Line
Chick-fil-A’s waffle fries are a tasty indulgence with 270 calories in a small order. They’re not the healthiest menu option due to the high amount of fat and calories, but can be enjoyed occasionally in moderation. Stick to the small size, share with a friend, or use some of the other tips mentioned to keep your overall diet in balance. Making baked seasoned fries at home can also satisfy the craving in a healthier way.
