Crispy Chicken Waffles: 2 Secrets Revealed

Chicken waffles have a way of making any day feel like a special occasion, don’t you think? I still remember the first time I tried them at a little diner down South; that perfect bite of crispy, savory fried chicken nestled into a warm, fluffy waffle, drizzled with sweet syrup, was pure magic. It’s a dish that just screams comfort and happiness. This crispy chicken and waffles recipe captures that exact feeling, bringing a taste of authentic Southern charm right to your kitchen. Get ready for a treat that’s both incredibly easy and outrageously delicious. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Waffles

This dish is an absolute winner for so many reasons:

• It’s the ultimate sweet and savory flavor explosion.
• The contrast of textures – crispy chicken and fluffy waffles – is divine.
• It’s surprisingly easy to make this homemade chicken and waffles.
• It’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a fun dinner.
• You get that authentic Southern style chicken waffles experience.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone, from kids to adults, will adore.
• The crispy chicken and waffles recipe guarantees a satisfying meal.
• It’s a classic comfort food that always hits the spot.

Ingredients for Chicken Waffles

Gather these goodies for the best homemade chicken and waffles experience:

• 2 cups buttermilk – this is key for brining the chicken, making it incredibly juicy.
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt – also for the chicken brine, it tenderizes the meat.
• 2 pounds bone-in chicken (thighs, breasts, drumsticks) – a mix gives you variety in your fried chicken waffles.
• 2 cups vegetable oil – for frying the chicken to a perfect golden crisp.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – the base for our crispy coating.
• 1 tablespoon paprika – adds a lovely color and mild flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper – for a hint of spicy fried chicken waffles excitement.
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – brings a bit of warmth.
• 2 large eggs – for the egg wash, helping the coating stick.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar – just a touch for the waffles to balance the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder – essential for fluffy waffles.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps with lift and tenderness.
• 1 cup sour cream – makes the waffles extra tender and rich.
• 1 cup milk – to get the batter to the right consistency.
• 4 tablespoons butter (melted) – adds richness to the waffle batter.
• 2 large eggs (separated) – the whites get whipped for lighter waffles.

How to Make Chicken Waffles

Get ready to create the ultimate crispy chicken and waffles right in your own kitchen. This easy chicken and waffles recipe is simpler than you might think!

1. Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will be for keeping the cooked chicken warm. Then, brine your chicken. In a bowl, combine the 2 cups buttermilk and 1 tablespoon kosher salt. Add your chicken pieces and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for juicy chicken.
2. Step 2: While the chicken brines, prepare the coating. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and an extra pinch of salt. In another bowl, whisk the 2 large eggs for your egg wash.
3. Step 3: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dip each piece into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge it generously in the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure each piece is well-covered for that perfect crust.
4. Step 4: Heat the 2 cups vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when it shimmers and a tiny bit of flour tossed in sizzles immediately. This is key for achieving that signature fried chicken waffles crispiness.
5. Step 5: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s a beautiful deep golden brown and cooked through. The aroma will be incredible! Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet and place it in your preheated oven to stay warm.

6. Step 6: Now for the waffles! In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (yes, more flour, but for the waffles this time!), 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon baking soda.
7. Step 7: In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients for the waffles: 1 cup sour cream, 1 cup milk, the melted 4 tablespoons butter, and the 2 large eggs (separated). Whisk the egg whites in a small bowl until stiff peaks form.
8. Step 8: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined – a few lumps are okay! Gently fold in the whipped egg whites to create a light and fluffy batter. Pour the batter onto your preheated waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions and cook until golden brown and cooked through.
9. Step 9: Serve your glorious homemade chicken and waffles immediately. Place a fluffy waffle on a plate, top with a piece or two of that amazing fried chicken, and drizzle with your favorite syrup or honey. A dash of hot sauce takes it to the next level for a truly authentic Southern style chicken waffles experience.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Waffles

Want to elevate your chicken and waffles game? Follow these insider tips for a truly show-stopping meal:

• Don’t skip the buttermilk brine for the chicken; it’s non-negotiable for juicy, tender meat.
• Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature before frying the chicken – too cool and it gets greasy, too hot and it burns.
• For extra fluffy waffles, gently fold in the whipped egg whites at the very end.
• Keep your cooked chicken warm in a low oven while you finish frying the remaining pieces.

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Waffles?

The secret to truly perfect chicken waffles lies in the contrast: ultra-crispy, perfectly seasoned fried chicken paired with light, fluffy, slightly sweet waffles. Achieving that perfect crust on the chicken is key, and don’t overmix your waffle batter! For more insights into achieving culinary perfection, you can explore our approach to cooking.

Can I make Chicken Waffles ahead of time?

You can prep components ahead! Brine the chicken and make the waffle batter (store separately in the fridge) up to 24 hours in advance. Fry the chicken and cook the waffles just before serving for the best texture. If you have questions about our recipes, feel free to contact us.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Waffles?

A common pitfall is overcrowding the fryer, which lowers oil temperature and leads to soggy chicken. Also, be careful not to overmix the waffle batter, as this can make them tough. Ensure your chicken is cooked through by checking the internal temperature. Understanding food safety is crucial, and you can learn more about it from the FDA.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Waffles

Serving up this classic dish is all about balancing those sweet and savory notes. My favorite way to enjoy chicken waffles is the traditional route: a golden, fluffy waffle topped with a piece of that perfectly fried chicken, a pat of butter melting into the warm waffle, and a generous drizzle of maple syrup. For a bit of a kick, try a spicy fried chicken waffles variation with a drizzle of hot honey or a side of your favorite hot sauce. Don’t forget some complementary sides like creamy coleslaw or a simple green salad to cut through the richness for a truly satisfying meal. For more serving suggestions, check out our author’s favorite pairings.

Nutrition Facts for Chicken Waffles

Here’s a look at the nutritional breakdown per serving for this classic dish:

• Calories: 700 kcal
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 60 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 15 g
• Sodium: 1200 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your homemade chicken and waffles. For more information on nutritional guidelines, consult MyPlate.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Waffles

Leftover chicken waffles are a treasure, but storing them properly is key to enjoying them again. Once your delicious homemade chicken and waffles have cooled completely, separate the chicken and waffles. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Wrap individual pieces of chicken and waffles tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, the best method for crispy chicken is in a preheated oven or toaster oven at around 375°F (190°C) until warmed through and crisp again. For the waffles, a toaster or toaster oven works best to bring back their fluffy texture. Please review our disclaimer regarding food storage and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Waffles

Is it really chicken and waffles, or chicken AND waffles?

That’s a great question! The classic dish is indeed a combination of both: fried chicken served atop waffles. It’s the sweet and savory combination that makes chicken waffles so iconic. People love this sweet and savory chicken waffles combination for a reason!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of bone-in chicken for my fried chicken waffles?

Absolutely! While bone-in pieces often yield juicier results due to their fat content, chicken breasts work well too. Just be extra mindful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily. They’ll still give you that delicious crispy chicken and waffles experience.

What’s the best syrup to use for chicken waffles?

Most people prefer classic maple syrup for their chicken waffles because its sweetness and subtle caramel notes perfectly complement the savory fried chicken. However, some enjoy a spicy fried chicken waffles twist with hot honey or even a fruit-infused syrup for a different flavor profile.

How do I keep my waffles crispy after cooking them for my chicken and waffles recipe?

To maintain crispiness, avoid stacking the waffles until serving. If you need to keep them warm, a single layer on a wire rack in a slightly warm oven (around 200°F or 95°C) can help. This ensures you get that perfect texture when you pair them with your homemade chicken and waffles. For more tips on kitchen practices, see our privacy policy.

Variations of Chicken Waffles You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are so many fun ways to switch up your chicken waffles! For a healthier take, try using whole wheat flour for your waffles and air-frying the chicken to get that crispy coating with less oil. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a spicy fried chicken waffles version by adding extra cayenne to the flour mix or drizzling with a chili-infused honey. Another delicious option is a chicken and waffle sandwich, perfect for a quick lunch – just layer your crispy chicken and a waffle half with some sauce and maybe a slice of cheese.

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