Chicken and Waffles – This iconic comfort food combines the crispy crunch of fried chicken with the fluffy, golden perfection of waffles. Drizzle it all with maple syrup or top with hot sauce, and you’ve got a dish that feels indulgent yet familiar.
What Are Chicken and Waffles?
At its core, chicken and waffles is exactly what it sounds like—a serving of fried chicken paired with waffles. The dish brings together the savory richness of perfectly seasoned, crispy fried chicken and the soft sweetness of freshly made waffles. Popularized in the early 20th century in Harlem, this dish quickly became a beloved staple across brunch menus and soul food restaurants.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken and Waffles
Achieving restaurant-quality chicken and waffles at home is easier than you think if you follow these tips:
- Double-Dip for Extra Crispy Chicken: For fried chicken that stays crispy, use a double-dredge method. Dip your chicken pieces in buttermilk, then into a seasoned flour mix, back into buttermilk, and again into the flour before frying.
- Season Every Layer: To avoid bland chicken, season the buttermilk marinade, the flour dredge, and the chicken itself. Common spices include paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and black pepper.
- Use Cornstarch in the Waffle Batter: Adding a small amount of cornstarch to your waffle batter ensures they stay crisp on the outside while being light and airy on the inside.
- Keep Everything Warm: Fried chicken and waffles can cool quickly. Keep your fried chicken in a warm oven (around 200°F) while you finish cooking the waffles.
- Experiment with Toppings: While maple syrup is a classic, try hot honey, whipped cream, or even a dollop of butter infused with fresh herbs.
Popular Variations of Chicken and Waffles
This versatile dish invites creativity. Here are some variations to try:
- Spicy Nashville Chicken and Waffles: Toss fried chicken in a spicy cayenne-laced oil for a fiery twist.
- Sweet and Savory Combo: Top with candied pecans and a drizzle of bourbon-infused maple syrup.
- Cheddar and Herb Waffles: Add shredded cheese and chopped herbs to the waffle batter for a savory base.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour blends for both the fried chicken coating and the waffles.
- Air-Fryer Chicken: For a lighter version, make the chicken in an air fryer instead of deep frying.
How to Serve Chicken and Waffles
Serving chicken and waffles is all about balance. Here’s how to plate it like a pro:
- Layer Strategically: Place the waffle on the bottom as the base, stack a generous piece of fried chicken on top, and finish with your choice of sauce or toppings.
- Side Dishes: Pair with collard greens, mac and cheese, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Drizzle Generously: Serve with a pitcher of warm maple syrup or hot honey for guests to customize their sweetness level.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken and Waffles
Storage
- Fried Chicken: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Waffles: Keep waffles in a resealable plastic bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
Reheating
- Fried Chicken: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Waffles: Reheat in a toaster or oven for a few minutes to bring back their texture.
Recipe FAQs
Can I Make Chicken and Waffles Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the fried chicken and waffles in advance. Reheat them just before serving to keep the textures intact.
What’s the Best Type of Chicken to Use?
Bone-in chicken pieces like thighs and drumsticks are traditional, but boneless chicken tenders or breasts work well for easier eating.
Do I Need a Waffle Maker?
While a waffle maker is ideal for achieving that classic texture and appearance, you can use a griddle or skillet to make pancakes as an alternative.
What’s the Origin of Chicken and Waffles?
This dish is believed to have originated in Pennsylvania Dutch country but gained widespread fame through Harlem’s soul food restaurants in the 1930s.
What Drinks Pair Well with Chicken and Waffles?
Serve with sweet tea, mimosas, or a light beer for a perfect pairing.
Chicken and Waffles
Chicken and Waffles - This iconic comfort food combines the crispy crunch of fried chicken with the fluffy, golden perfection of waffles. Drizzle it all with maple syrup or top with hot sauce, and you’ve got a dish that feels indulgent yet familiar.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins (about 6–7 pieces)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder, divided
- 1 cup whole buttermilk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground white pepper (or black pepper), divided
- 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika, divided
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder, divided
- vegetable oil, for frying
- hot sauce, optional
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Buttermilk Waffles
- pure maple syrup & softened butter, for serving
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry and place in a resealable bag or container. Add buttermilk, 1 tsp each of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Add hot sauce if you like some heat. Massage to coat, seal, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- In a shallow dish, mix flour with the remaining 1 tsp each of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and smoked paprika. Set aside.
- Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F.
- Dredge marinated chicken in seasoned flour, ensuring full coverage. Shake off excess and let rest on a baking sheet.
- Fry in batches (4–5 pieces at a time) until golden brown and cooked through (2–3 minutes per piece or until internal temp reaches 165°F). Rest fried chicken on a wire rack.
- Prepare buttermilk waffles per the recipe, reheating them as needed.
- Top warm waffles with crispy fried chicken. Drizzle with pure maple syrup, add softened butter, and garnish with fresh fruit if desired. Serve immediately and savor the deliciousness!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
4Amount Per Serving Calories 447Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 112mgSodium 864mgCarbohydrates 37gFiber 2gSugar 7gProtein 42g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Still Hungry!! Try These Chicken Recipes:
- Easy Chicken Kiev
- Chicken Lo Mein
- Restaurant Style Chicken Fried Rice
- Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Final Thoughts
Chicken and waffles is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you enjoy it as a special weekend brunch or a comforting dinner, the combination of crispy, juicy chicken and fluffy waffles is sure to delight every palate. With the tips, tricks, and variations shared here, you’re all set to create a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious. So, preheat that waffle iron, fire up the fryer, and get ready to savor the ultimate comfort food.
