Anything but the Fries
If you’re tired of fries or want to try something new, plenty of fast food chains are known for their alternative sides. To make the most of any meal, here are 20 unique and delicious dishes to consider.
1. Wendy’s Chili
Wendy’s is best known for its Baconators and made-to-order fast food. If you’re not feeling like fries, you’re in luck, as Wendy’s offers up a hearty and flavorful chili. Made with ground beef and beans, it’s the perfect fix for those cold winter evenings.
2. Arby’s Mozzarella Sticks
Arby’s is the go-to spot for roast beef sandwiches, but French fries never seemed like the right companion anyway. Instead, try their mozzarella sticks! Crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside, they’re the perfect complement to a juicy roast beef Sammy.
3. KFC Mashed Potatoes
KFC has plenty of sides on offer, and let’s be honest, their French fries are pretty lackluster. Luckily, they more than make up for this with their mashed potatoes. After all, aren’t creamy mashed potatoes the perfect companion to fried chicken?
4. Chick-fil-A Mac and Cheese
Chick-fil-A is a chain that offers up delectable chicken sandwiches and a plethora of tasty sides to choose from. However, most people will agree that it’s hard to beat their mac and cheese.
5. Jack in the Box Bacon Cheddar Potato Wedges
If you’ve been going to Jack in the Box for your fast food fix, then you’ve probably already tried their potato wedges. If not, add it to your to-do list. The potatoes are perfectly fluffy and crisp, while the bacon adds the savory notes you’re missing.
6. A&W Cheese Curds
A&W does two things exceptionally well: root beer and cheese curds. Treat yourself to a hot dog and a burger, but be sure to get in on those deep-fried golden squares of cheesy goodness.
7. Popeyes Popcorn Shrimp
Taking a turn, Popeyes puts seafood front and center with their popcorn shrimp. You can have it with their rich cocktail sauce, and you’ll be surprised how well it works with fried chicken.
8. Wingstop Cajun Fried Corn
Speaking of Cajun flavors, Wingstop also brings extra spices to its menu with its Cajun fried corn. Essentially, sweet corn on the cob is coated with that all-too-familiar smoky flavoring, making it a great pick.
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9. Harvey’s Poutine
Whether you’re a legit Canadian or simply one at heart, you can treat yourself to a Harvey’s poutine anytime you get bored of basic old fries. With so many different types to choose from, you’ll find the perfect burger buddy in no time.
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10. White Castle Chicken Rings
As of late, White Castle’s burgers are starting to slip, but at least you can rely on their chicken rings. Crispy and breaded to perfection, they’re the perfect alternative to basic old nuggets as well.
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11. Popeyes Red Beans and Rice
Returning to Popeyes, they seem to have a lot of options for those that want something other than fries. The red beans and rice is a southern classic that also works great with fried chicken.
12. Wendy’s Baked Potato
If you’re trying to be health-conscious, you can easily replace your French fries with a baked potato at Wendy’s. They also give you all the fixings, like sour cream, spring onions, and bacon bits if you’re so inclined.
13. Mary Brown Taters
Mary Brown is another Canadian chain specializing in crispy fried chicken. Rather than focus on fries, try their taters instead. While maintaining that crisp finish, the taters are soft and fluffy at the center. For extra flavor, go for the Nashville taters.
14. Chick-fil-A Waffle Potato Fries
Speaking of fries that aren’t quite fries, Chick-fil-A also offers up waffle fries. People may dismiss them as essentially the same thing, but it’s worth noting that the texture is totally different in waffle form.
15. Burger King’s Chicken Fries
This fry, on the other hand, isn’t fooling anyone. Made with breaded chicken strips, this is the perfect thing to get when you’re having trouble deciding between fries and nuggets.
16. Domino’s Twisted Dough Balls
Pizza chains are also pitching into the alternative sides game. Domino’s dough balls are a great bite-sized treat that are simply elevated with a dip.
17. Mary Brown Mac and Cheese
Another chain with stellar mac and cheese is Mary Brown. They serve it up cold with bits of pepper, and it’s the perfect pairing with some crispy chicken.
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18. Chipotle Chips & Guac
Going in a completely different direction, Chipotle provides the quintessential Mexican side dish. It’s hard to beat chips and guacamole, especially when it’s made fresh.
19. Church’s Chicken Honey Butter Biscuits
Another chicken staple with a great side to consider is Church’s Chicken and their biscuits. Unlike other boring biscuits, Church’s takes it to the next level with their sweet honey butter drizzle.
20. McDonalds Hashbrown
McDonald's may be king when it comes to French fries, but their hashbrowns are also pretty incredible. Even if it’s not breakfast time, this is a great way to enjoy a potato in one of its many other forms.
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