If you have been craving the perfect harmony of crispy, juicy chicken paired with fluffy, golden waffles, you have to try this Chicken and Waffles Recipe. It’s a delightful dance of textures and flavors that feels cozy and indulgent all at once. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by the warm sweetness of maple syrup, making it a beloved choice for brunch or dinner. This recipe is straightforward yet delivers incredible results that’ll have you reaching for seconds without hesitation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together this Chicken and Waffles Recipe requires simple, accessible ingredients that are staples in most kitchens. Each one plays a key role: from the spices that infuse the chicken with bold flavor, to the buttermilk that tenderizes and enriches both chicken and waffles, every component elevates the dish beautifully.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (4): Juicier than breasts, perfect for frying and staying tender inside.
- Buttermilk (1 cup plus 1 1/4 cups): Adds tang and moisture, tenderizing the chicken and creating tender waffles.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing flavors in both chicken and waffle batter.
- Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper: These spices add warmth, depth, and a touch of heat to the chicken marinade.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup and 1 1/2 cups): Critical for the crispy coating on the chicken and the waffle base.
- Cornstarch (1/2 cup): Improves the chicken’s crunch by absorbing extra moisture.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents that make the waffles light and fluffy.
- Vegetable oil (1 1/2 cups): For perfectly frying the chicken with a golden crust.
- Sugar (2 tablespoons): Provides subtle sweetness in the waffles for a balanced bite.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind the waffle batter and add richness.
- Melted butter (1/4 cup): Enhances flavor and tender crumb in waffles.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds aromatic sweetness to the waffle batter.
- Maple syrup: The classic finishing touch that ties everything together.
- Butter and hot sauce (optional): For serving, bringing extra layers of indulgence or spice.
How to Make Chicken and Waffles Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by mixing buttermilk with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Submerge the chicken thighs in this flavorful bath, letting them soak for at least an hour or overnight if you have the time. This step tenderizes the meat while infusing it with bold, savory notes that shine through after frying.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the chicken marinates, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. This combination is key to creating that signature crunchy, golden crust which contrasts perfectly with juicy chicken inside.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Lift each piece of chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge the chicken thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks evenly. Let the breaded chicken rest for five minutes before frying to help the crust set firmly.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the chicken pieces in hot oil, frying for 5 to 7 minutes per side until their exterior turns a mouthwatering golden brown and crisp. Drain the fried chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil and maintain that perfect crunch.
Step 5: Make the Waffles
Preheat your waffle iron to get it ready for batter. In one bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt for the base. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry, mixing just until incorporated to avoid overworking the batter.
Step 6: Cook the Waffles
Pour the batter into your heated waffle iron, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Cook until the waffles develop a crisp exterior and golden color. The result is a light, fluffy waffle that perfectly complements the texture of the fried chicken.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve Your Chicken and Waffles Recipe
Place a warm waffle on each plate, top with a crispy fried chicken piece, then drizzle generously with maple syrup. Add a pat of butter and a dash of hot sauce if you love a spicy kick. This combination is a soulful celebration of flavors, textures, and comfort.
How to Serve Chicken and Waffles Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing chicken and waffles is your chance to add visual appeal and enhance flavors. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives brighten the dish, while a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can bring out even more savory notes. A drizzle of honey or an extra splash of apple cider vinegar in your hot sauce mix can offer exciting flavor contrasts.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like creamy coleslaw or crispy sweet potato fries pair beautifully with this dish. Light green salads with tangy vinaigrettes provide balance, while mac and cheese or baked beans bring comforting, hearty additions. Consider seasonal veggies roasted with a touch of garlic and lemon for a fresh finish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve mini waffles topped with bite-sized chicken pieces as appetizer sliders. Or create a layered plate stacking waffles and chicken with layers of fruit compote or spicy aioli between. Presentation can be as casual or elegant as you like, making this Chicken and Waffles Recipe perfect for both cozy family dinners and impressive brunch gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover fried chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping them apart helps maintain each element’s texture — preventing waffles from getting soggy and chicken from losing its crunch.
Freezing
You can freeze both components for longer storage. Wrap waffles tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag, and do the same with the cooled fried chicken pieces. They’ll keep well for up to one month, making meal prep easy for busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, use an oven or toaster oven to revive crispness. Warm the chicken at 350°F for about 10 minutes and the waffles for 3 to 5 minutes until heated through and crunchy. Avoid microwaving as it tends to soften the crust and waffles excessively.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more forgiving during frying. If you use breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness to help them cook evenly and stay moist.
Is buttermilk necessary for this recipe?
Buttermilk is key to tenderizing the chicken and adding subtle tang, but you can substitute with milk mixed with a little lemon juice or vinegar if needed. It won’t be quite the same, but still tasty.
How spicy is this Chicken and Waffles Recipe?
The level of spice mainly comes from cayenne pepper in the marinade and optional hot sauce when serving. You can adjust these to suit your heat preference by using less cayenne or skipping the hot sauce.
Can I make the waffles gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your preferred gluten-free flour blend, making sure it contains xanthan gum for binding. You might need to adjust the batter consistency slightly but the waffles will still turn out delicious.
What’s the best way to get the chicken extra crispy?
Double dredging the chicken or letting the flour coating rest before frying helps form a sturdier crust. Also, make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) so the coating seals quickly and fries up crisp without absorbing excess oil.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing like sinking your teeth into a warm, crisp piece of chicken paired with a tender, buttery waffle drizzled in maple syrup. This Chicken and Waffles Recipe delivers comfort food magic that’s surprisingly easy to make yet wonderfully impressive every time. I promise once you try it, it will become one of your go-to dishes for special breakfasts, brunches, or any time you want a little flavorful indulgence. So go ahead — gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this perfect, soulful meal.
Print
Chicken and Waffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
A delicious Southern classic combining crispy fried chicken with fluffy, flavorful waffles. Marinated chicken thighs are breaded and fried to golden perfection, served atop warm waffles with maple syrup and optional butter or hot sauce for a sweet and savory meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Chicken Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For Frying
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Waffle Batter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
To Serve
- Maple syrup
- Butter
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper until combined. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully submerged, and marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor and tenderness.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. This dry mixture will give the chicken its crispy crust.
- Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the surface to ensure an even and thick crust. Let the coated chicken rest for 5 minutes; this helps the batter adhere better during frying.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry each side for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown, crispy on the outside, and fully cooked inside. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Drain the chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
- Make the Waffle Batter: While the chicken fries, preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix gently until just combined; do not overmix to ensure tender waffles.
- Cook the Waffles: Lightly grease the waffle iron if necessary. Pour the batter onto the hot waffle iron, spreading evenly. Cook according to your waffle maker’s instructions until the waffles are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Assemble and Serve: Place a warm waffle on each plate, top with a piece of fried chicken, and generously drizzle with maple syrup. Add a pat of butter or a dash of hot sauce for an extra flavor boost. Serve immediately and enjoy this perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Notes
- For best flavor and juiciness, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature for crunchy, non-greasy fried chicken.
- Do not overmix waffle batter to keep waffles light and fluffy.
- Substitute chicken breasts if preferred, but thighs stay juicier.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount to control heat level.
