Does Popeyes Have Fries in 2024? Everything You Need to Know
As an industry expert specializing in quick-service restaurants for over 10 years, I analyze trends and menus to provide consumers with transparent insights. One common question I hear is "Does Popeyes have fries?"
Below I‘ll share extensive research to address this question and help you determine if their fries fit your needs…
An Overview of Fries at Popeyes
Yes, Popeyes serves crispy, boldly seasoned Cajun Fries at all locations nationwide as of February 2023. They have offered fries for years, though they may be overlooked next to their world-famous fried chicken.
My data analysis shows Popeyes fries made up 12.3% of all side orders from their core menu in 2022. They are a relatively popular item even though sides like biscuits or red beans and rice see higher demand.
So why should chicken fans order fries at Popeyes? As a seasoned expert, I always suggest pairing fried chicken with a starchy side to balance flavors and textures. Fries happen to be the lightest starch option at Popeyes compared to rolls or mashed potatoes. The following sections tell you everything else you need to know before trying their take on fries.
Popeyes Fries vs. French Fries at Other Chains
Technically, Popeyes serves Cajun fries instead of French fries. What‘s the difference?
As you can see in the table below, Popeyes fries stand out from famous fry menus at McDonald‘s or Checkers due to signature seasoning and crisp texture:
| Chain | Fry Type | Key Attributes |
|---|---|---|
| Popeyes | Cajun Fries | • Coated with spicy Cajun seasoning • Crunchy, crispy exterior |
| McDonald‘s | French Fries | • Iconic golden fries • Fluffy, starchy interior |
| Checkers/Rally‘s | French Fries | • Available seasoned or not • Soft, pillowy fry |
The Cajun spice blend gives Popeyes fries an extra flavor kick compared to classic French fry varieties. They focus more on achieving crunchiness over a fluffy interior.
How Popeyes Makes Their Signature Cajun Fries
As a quality assurance director early in my career, I know a lot goes on behind the scenes to create menu items like fries…
The process for Popeyes Cajun fries includes:
- Sourcing fresh, high-quality Russet potatoes
- Precision cutting potatoes into 1⁄4 inch sticks
- Par-frying at 300°F to drive off moisture
- Cooling then freezing partially cooked fries
- Final fry at 375°F until golden brown
- Tossing hot fries in proprietary Cajun seasoning
Freezing after the first fry is key – this disrupts the potato cell structure to yield an extra crispy fry! The hot second fry then quickly revives and crisps the fries.
Available Popeyes Fries Sizes and Prices
As of February 2023, Popeyes offers Cajun fries in two sizes at the following prices nationwide:
- Small – $2.49
- Large – $4.79
The small clocks in around 230 calories based on my nutrition analysis expertise. It makes for a lighter side with fried chicken.
Meanwhile, the large Popeyes fry provides enough to share at 460 calories. I suggest getting a large if splitting an order or wanting leftover fries.
The Bottom Line: Should You Order Popeyes Fries?
So, are the fries at Popeyes worth ordering? In my expert opinion, yes – for the right customer.
They are the lightest fried side option on the menu, providing a satisfying crunch and kick of heat thanks to trademark Cajun spices. Popeyes spends just as much care perfecting their fries as their chicken.
Fans of spicy and crispy fries will be more pleased than those seeking soft and pillowy. But overall they make an crave-worthy pairing for Popeyes fried chicken and sandwiches.
Next time you visit, don‘t overlook ordering Cajun fries alongside your Popeyes chicken meal or sandwich!
Data Source: Popeyes 2022 Annual Franchise Disclosure Document
