Chicken and Waffles
Crispy fried chicken meets fluffy waffles in this classic comfort food combo that's easier to make than you think.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Steps
- 1 Marinate chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- 2 Combine flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl for dredging.
- 3 Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F. Dredge chicken in flour mixture and fry until golden brown and reaches 165°F, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- 4 For waffles, mix dry ingredients. Add buttermilk, egg, and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
- 5 Preheat waffle iron and cook batter until waffles are crisp and golden.
- 6 Serve chicken atop waffles with your favorite syrup.
Nutrition
Tips
- For extra crispy chicken, double dip: coat in flour, then buttermilk, then flour again before frying.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Make the waffle batter ahead of time and let it rest in the fridge for an hour to enhance flavor.
- Maple syrup is classic, but try a spicy honey drizzle for a twist.
- If you're short on time, use store-bought waffles and just focus on perfecting the chicken.
Storage
Store leftover chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain crispiness. Waffles can be frozen for up to a month; reheat in a toaster or oven.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with classic maple syrup.
- Pair with a side of crispy bacon.
- Add a fried egg on top for a hearty breakfast option.
- Accompany with fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs are even more flavorful and stay juicy.
How do I keep waffles crisp?
Keep them warm in a low oven while you finish cooking the rest.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour blends for both the chicken coating and waffle batter.
What oil is best for frying?
Peanut or vegetable oil work well due to their high smoke points.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Prepare chicken and waffles separately and reheat just before serving for best texture.