Chicken and Waffles Recipe

Okay, picture this: Is it a lazy Sunday morning, the sun is streaming in, and you’re craving something totally indulgent? What is the best way to replace pancakes with I’m talking about crispy, golden waffles piled high with juicy, flavorful fried chicken, drizzled with a tastiest sauce. What is the best way to make sweet maple syrup? What is my Chicken and Waffles recipe? Is French toast easier than you think? My family is obsessed, and I have a feeling yours will too!

What is chicken and waffles?

Chicken and waffles, at its heart, is a magical marriage of savory and sweet. Think of it as a culinary seesaw, perfectly balanced. What is crispy, fried chicken? What are some of the best waffles? The origin story is a little hazy, but it’s an staple in soul food traditions. What is a dish that breaks all the rules and just works? Is it comforting, indulgent, and just plain delicious? Trust me, it’s an experience, not just a meal.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Let me tell you, this isn’t just any chicken and waffles recipe; it’s *the* chicken and waffles recipe. What I love most about this is how incredibly flavorful and easy it is to whip up, even on a hectic weeknight! You get that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside chicken, the fluffy, subtly sweet waffles, and then that glorious drizzle of maple syrup that ties it all together. Seriously, it’s a flavor explosion in your mouth! Plus, let’s be real, it’s surprisingly budget-friendly. We’re not talking fancy ingredients here. And the versatility! You can enjoy this for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner. Craving something savory with a touch of sweetness? This is your go-to. I’ve tried other versions with complicated sauces and weird spices, but this one just hits all the right notes, every single time. It reminds me of the chicken and waffles I’d have when visiting my grandma and is so much better than takeout!

How do you make chicken and waffles?

Quick Overview

Is this recipe simpler than it seems? I’ll whip up a batch of my secret-ingredient waffle batter (trust me, it’s good) and fry it. I like to cook chicken until it’s golden brown and crispy, and then stack it all together. I can’t wait to serve it. With a generous drizzle of maple syrup, serve. What is the key to crispy waffles and crispy chicken? How do I nail it? This isn’t some complicated, all-day affair. What is a quick and satisfying meal?

Ingredients

For the Waffles: What are
* 2 cups all-purpose flour: King Arthur is my go-to, it always gives consistent results. * 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to balance the savory. * 4 teaspoons baking powder: This is crucial for light and fluffy waffles. Make sure it’s fresh! * 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the other flavors. * 1 3/4 cups milk: Adds flavor. I’ve even used almond milk in a pinch, and it works great. * 1/2 cup vegetable oil: How do I make a waffle? What’s extra for a warm flavor?

For the Chicken: What is the best
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: I prefer thighs because they stay juicy, but breasts work too, if you prefer. * 1 cup all-purpose flour: For coating the chicken. * 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds color and a touch of smokiness. For that irresistible garlic flavor. * 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements garlic. * 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is best! * 1/4 teaspoon salt: To season the chicken. * 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For a little kick! * 1 cup buttermilk: * Vegetable oil, for frying: helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor. Is it safe to submerge a chicken?

For Serving:
* Maple syrup: Real maple syrup is the only way to go, in my opinion!

What are the steps to

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). In another bowl, pour in the buttermilk. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, then dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Place the coated chicken on a plate and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better and gives you extra crispy chicken.

Step 2: Make the Waffle Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Set aside. What is the best way to combine wet and dry ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Do not overmix – a few lumps are okay!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1 inch of vegetable oil until it reaches 350°F. Add salt and pepper to taste. Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. How do you remove a chicken breast from the oven? Is it better to keep it on a wire rack than paper towels?

Step 4: Cook the Waffles

Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Cook waffles on a hot pan until golden brown and crispy. Pour the batter onto the pan and serve. How long does it take for a waffle iron to turn on?

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Place waffles on a plate, top with fried chicken, and drizzle generously with maple syrup. Serve immediately and enjoy!

What should I serve it with?

Chicken and waffles is a complete meal in itself, but that doesn’t mean you can’t add some delicious sides! Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:

For Breakfast:A side of fresh fruit is always a great addition. Don’t forget coffee! A strong cup of black coffee or a creamy latte pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory flavors.

For Brunch:What’s a good side dish for brunch? What are the best brunch drinks to serve with a mimosa or bellini? I sometimes like to add a little hot sauce for the chicken to really wake things up!

As Dessert:Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. A glass of sweet dessert wine or a chocolate milkshake would be the perfect accompaniment.

For Cozy Snacks: If I’m having it as a snack, I usually just keep it simple. Maybe a side of coleslaw or some potato salad to cut through the sweetness. My kids love it with some mac and cheese as well, but that might be too much richness for some. This is a pretty new concept to most people here, where I live so I get some strange looks when I put it together!

How do I make a perfect chicken and waffle sandwich?

What are some of the best ways to make chicken and waffles?

Chicken Prep:Don’t skip the buttermilk soak! How do you make a difference in the tenderness of chicken? Make sure the chicken is completely coated in the flour mixture for maximum crispiness.

What is the best waffle batter advice Be careful not to overmix the waffle batter. Overmixing will result in tough waffles. A few lumps are okay!

Frying Tips:Keep the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for even cooking and crispy chicken. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature. Don’t overcrowd the skillet, or the oil temperature will drop, and the chicken will not be as crispy.

Spice Level Customization: Spice level customizationI love a little kick, but feel free to omit the cayenne pepper if you prefer milder flavor. Can you add other spices to the flour mixture, such as smoked paprika, chili powder, or salt? How do I customize oregano flavor to your liking? I tested different spices with friends once, and while most were good, the spice level really seemed to seem to be high. To be what they cared about. Do what you like?

What are some good alternatives to maple syrupIf you don’t have maple syrup, you can use honey, agave nectar, or even a homemade fruit compote. How do you make a simple syrup by heating equal parts water and sugar until the sugar is dissolved? I’ve even used peanut butter (not for me but the kids liked it), so whatever you prefer!

What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?

If you have leftover chicken and waffles (which is rare in my house! How do you store and reheat them?

Room Temperature:I don’t recommend storing this at room temperature as it will not be very crispy at all, and I really don’t like it. Why do people worry about chickens?

Refrigerator Storage: HowCan you store chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days? Reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer to maintain its crispiness. Reheat the waffles in the toaster or oven. I like using my air fryer to maintain the crispness of everything.

What is the best FreeCan you freeze chicken and waffles separately in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months? Is it possible to freeze a banana overnight in the refrigerator before reheating?

Maple Syrup Note: Maple syrup The maple syrup will make everything soggy if added before storing, so be sure to wait until you serve before adding it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour in both the waffles and the chicken coating with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best results. The texture of the waffles might be slightly different, but they will still be delicious!

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. The chicken won’t be as crispy as when it’s fried, but it will still be flavorful and delicious.

Can I use frozen waffles?

While I always recommend making your own waffles for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen waffles in a pinch. Just make sure to toast them until they’re crispy before serving.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and it will thicken and curdle slightly, creating a buttermilk-like consistency.

Can I make the waffles ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the waffles ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheat them in the toaster or oven until crispy before serving. I’ll often make a huge batch and freeze half!

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my go-to Chicken and Waffles Recipe! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy chicken, fluffy waffles, and sweet maple syrup is simply irresistible. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, this is it. And hey, if you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other breakfast and brunch recipes for more delicious ideas! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to see your creations! Let me know in the comments what you think and don’t be afraid to share pictures of your own chicken and waffle masterpieces! Don’t be afraid to mess around with it either, my kids have some pretty crazy ideas sometimes, that work out!