Waffles and Chicken Recipe

Waffles and Chicken is the kind of soul-satisfying dish that turns an ordinary brunch into something extraordinary. Crispy, golden-fried chicken served on pillowy waffles, all drizzled with sweet syrup or a touch of hot honey—what’s not to love? There’s something magical about the way savory, crunchy chicken mingles with the soft, fluffy waffles and that hint of sweetness. Whether you’re gathering with friends or spicing up a lazy weekend, this playful pairing never fails to impress, delight, and comfort all at once.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Waffles and Chicken recipe is all about simple, powerful flavors coming together. Each ingredient has its moment to shine, contributing layers of taste, texture, or color to make the final dish truly stand out. Here’s what you’ll need—and why it matters.

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Juicy and flavorful, these cuts stay moist after frying and give the chicken its signature hearty bite.
• Buttermilk: The secret to tender, flavorful chicken—soaking pieces in buttermilk makes them extra juicy.
• All-purpose flour: Delivers that irresistible, craggy crunch once it hits the hot oil.
• Spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, pepper): These blend together to season every layer for a spiced, balanced bite.
• Eggs: They help bind the waffle batter and create a lovely lift.
• Milk: Essential for smooth, rich waffles with a tender crumb.
• Butter (melted): Adds richness to the waffles and ensures golden edges.
• Sugar: A touch in the waffle batter enhances browning and brings a gentle sweetness.
• Baking powder: This leavener creates that wonderful rise and airy waffle texture.
• Neutral oil (for frying): Canola, peanut, or vegetable oil keeps the chicken perfectly crisp without overwhelming flavors.
• Maple syrup or hot honey: The crowning touch—just drizzle to marry all the flavors together.

How to Make Waffles and Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by soaking your chicken pieces in a generous bath of buttermilk and half the spice mixture. Let it rest for at least an hour, or overnight if you have the time. This step ensures the chicken stays tender and becomes infused with all those deep, savory flavors.

Step 2: Make the Waffle Batter

While the chicken soaks, whisk together your dry ingredients—flour, sugar, baking powder, a pinch of salt—in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, blend your eggs, milk, and melted butter. Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry, mixing just until combined for that perfect, fluffy waffle base.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

When your chicken’s ready, lift each piece from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, and dredge it in seasoned flour. Double-dipping (back into the buttermilk, then the flour again) means even crunchier chicken—take the extra step for true Waffles and Chicken glory!

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat 2 inches of neutral oil in a heavy skillet to 350°F. Working in batches, fry your chicken pieces until they’re golden, crispy, and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes depending on size. Rest them on a rack so any excess oil drains off, keeping every bite light and crunchy.

Step 5: Cook the Waffles

Preheat your waffle iron and brush it with a bit of melted butter or oil. Pour the batter in, following your iron’s instructions—cook until each waffle is golden and crisp at the edges. The waffles should be sturdy enough to support crunchy chicken, but still fluffy inside.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Lay a piping-hot waffle on each plate, top with a piece (or two) of fried chicken, and finish with a big drizzle of maple syrup or hot honey. This last step pulls the whole Waffles and Chicken experience together in every bite.

How to Serve Waffles and Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped chives or fresh parsley brings color and a pop of freshness. Try a dusting of smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce for even more punch. Don’t forget the syrup—maple for sweetness or hot honey for that trendy, spicy-sweet kick.

Side Dishes

Waffles and Chicken pairs well with tangy coleslaw, sliced fruit, or classic creamy grits. For something greener, add a simple arugula or mixed greens salad. These sides offer balance and brightness that complements the rich, savory main.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this dish into manageable sliders with mini waffles, or serve as a deconstructed board for informal gatherings. Waffles and Chicken also shine when stacked and skewered as fun appetizers or brunch bites—there are no wrong ways to enjoy this duo!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover chicken and waffles separate in airtight containers. Chicken lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge; waffles should be enjoyed within two days for best texture. Wait to assemble until just before serving so everything stays fresh and crisp.

Freezing

You can freeze both components. Wrap fried chicken pieces tightly or store in freezer bags for up to a month. Layer waffles between parchment in a sealed bag and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for optimal results.

Reheating

For best results, reheat chicken on a baking rack in a hot oven (400°F) until crispy—avoid microwaving, which softens the crust. Waffles perk up in a toaster or a dry skillet, restoring their golden crunch in just a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I use chicken tenders for Waffles and Chicken?

Absolutely! Tenders cook quickly, stay juicy, and are perfect for smaller servings. Just adjust cooking time since they fry up fast.

Is it okay to bake the chicken instead of frying?

You can bake for a lighter version. Coat the chicken with a bit of oil, set on a wire rack, and bake at 425°F. It won’t get quite as crispy as frying, but still delicious!

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for both chicken breading and waffle batter, and double-check that your baking powder is gluten-free.

What’s the best oil for frying chicken?

Neutral oils like peanut, canola, or vegetable work well, as they tolerate high heat and don’t overpower the flavor of the Waffles and Chicken.

How can I keep waffles warm while frying the chicken?

Pop cooked waffles onto a baking sheet and keep them in a low oven (about 200°F) until ready to serve. They’ll stay warm, fluffy, and crisp!

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried Waffles and Chicken at home, now’s your moment! It’s fun to make, always crowd-pleasing, and every bite is a perfect mix of sweet and savory. Let this classic comfort combo become your new favorite weekend treat—you’ll want to make it again and again.

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