While french fries hold a special place in our hearts, exploring new fast-food sides can be a delightful experience. Fast food innovators are continually introducing creative side dishes that go beyond the traditional. Whether it's a perfected comfort food, an inventive twist on a classic, or an unexpected combination, these sides often become the main attraction for many. Here are the 10 best fast food sides as voted by USA TODAY 10BEST readers and a panel of fast food experts.

No. 10: Fried Pickles - Zaxby's

Zaxby's fried pickles are celebrated for their irresistible combination of crunch and tang. Served with a side of ranch sauce, these pickles are the perfect companion to chicken fingers or a signature sandwich.

No. 9: Chili - Wendy's

Wendy's hearty and flavorful chili, made with fresh, never frozen beef, remains a beloved menu item. It can be enjoyed alongside a baked potato or as a stand-alone meal.

No. 8: Mashed Potatoes and Gravy - KFC

One of KFC's most iconic sides, the pillowy mashed potatoes paired with rich, savory gravy, has become a customer favorite, with hundreds of thousands of pounds sold annually.

No. 7: Cheese Curds - Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers

To complement a Freddy's Original Double burger, an order of cheese curds offers diners a gooey and savory side made with fried white cheddar.

No. 6: Wisconsin Cheese Curds - Culver's

Culver's pays homage to its home state's cheese-making tradition with Wisconsin cheese curds. These fresh yellow and white cheddar cheese curds are lightly battered and fried to achieve a crunchy exterior while keeping the cheese inside creamy.

No. 5: Honey-Butter Biscuit - Church's Texas Chicken

Church's Texas Chicken's honey-butter biscuit has garnered a dedicated fanbase for its light, fluffy texture combined with the sweet richness of honey butter, perfectly complementing their signature fried chicken.

No. 4: Fried Okra - Golden Chick

Golden Chick's fried okra is a hit among diners. Fresh okra is breaded and fried to perfection, delivering a crunchy, savory exterior with a soft, earthy-tasting interior.

No. 3: Onion Rings - Jack in the Box

Jack in the Box's onion rings are praised for their large size and crunchy coating. The seasoned batter and caramelized onions create an enjoyable blend of sweet and savory flavors.

No. 2: Cheese Curds - A&W

A&W's cheese curds, made with gooey white cheddar and a crispy breading, are an excellent addition to a decadent burger or a glass of their famous root beer.

No. 1: Tempura Green Beans - Habit Burger & Grill

The tempura green beans at Habit Burger & Grill are a unique and popular side. Fresh green beans are dipped in tempura batter and deep-fried, offering a delightful crispy texture with the fresh flavor of the green beans, served with ranch dipping sauce.