Chick-fil-A loyalists have been buzzing about a subtle shift in the flavor profile of the chain's beloved waffle fries. It turns out, these suspicions are not unfounded. The Atlanta-based fast-food giant confirmed to Fox News Digital that the waffle fry recipe underwent a tweak last year after extensive testing in various markets. The change, according to Chick-fil-A spokesperson Bryan Malenius, was implemented to enhance the fries' crispiness and maintain their signature taste.
The secret ingredient? Pea starch. The Chick-fil-A website reveals that pea starch is now used in the coating process of the waffle fries. While the company aimed for a positive improvement, the online community has responded with a mix of praise and criticism.
A Reddit thread dedicated to all things Chick-fil-A became a battleground of opinions, with many users expressing disappointment in the new recipe. Some complained about a blander taste, while others lamented the shorter window of optimal crispiness. One user, "lysistrata3000," stated that the fries become "mealy and bland" quickly and wished the company had "left well enough alone." Several others echoed this sentiment, preferring the softer texture of the original fries.
However, not all feedback was negative. Some users appreciated the increased crispiness, finding the new fries still enjoyable. "crline3924" noted a slight increase in crispiness but maintained they were "still very tasty." Another user, "boomgoesthevegemite," hadn't noticed any difference at all, suggesting consistency may vary across locations.
This divergence in opinions highlights the challenge of altering a beloved classic. While Chick-fil-A aimed to improve the fry experience, the change hasn't been universally embraced. The addition of pea starch, intended to enhance crispiness, appears to have altered the overall texture and taste, leaving some customers craving the original recipe.
