There’s an extraordinary joy in crafting a dish that perfectly marries comfort with culinary delight. Picture this: golden, crispy fried chicken paired with fluffy Belgian waffles, all drizzled with a mouthwatering spicy honey butter that adds a little kick to your palate. This chicken and waffles recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that will elevate any brunch or dinner gathering.
I stumbled upon this classic Southern favorite on a relaxed Sunday morning when the urge for something comforting sparked my creativity. And just like that, I whipped up a plate that brought smiles to my family’s faces. Not only is it easy to make, but it also delivers a delightful balance of sweet and savory that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delicious experience together, as we create a dish that defines comfort food in every bite!
Why is this Chicken and Waffles Recipe special?
Irresistible flavors: This recipe perfectly balances savory chicken and sweet waffles, creating a satisfying taste explosion.
Quick and easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this delightful dish on the table in no time, making it ideal for busy mornings.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or brunch with friends, it caters to all tastes and ensures everyone leaves happy.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite syrup or toppings, making it uniquely yours every time you serve it.
Comfort food elevated: The spicy honey butter adds a unique twist that takes this classic dish to a whole new level of enjoyment.
Chicken and Waffles Recipe Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – Main protein providing richness and flavor; substitute with boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken when marinated; can also use soured milk (mix milk with lemon juice).
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor in the brine and seasoned flour mix.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth and savory flavor to the chicken.
• Onion Powder – Complements garlic powder, enhancing the overall seasoning.
• Hot Sauce/Chili Powder – Provides heat and flavor to the brine; be adventurous with your spice level!
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a smoky flavor that lifts the dish to new heights.
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – The base for the breading that provides structure and crispness.
• Cornstarch – Enhances the crispiness of the coating for that perfect crunch.
• Baking Powder – Helps the coating puff slightly, contributing to a lighter texture.
• Cracked Black Pepper – Adds spice to the coating and enhances overall flavor.
For the Spicy Honey Butter
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture to the spicy honey butter.
• Honey/Maple Syrup – The sweet element that balances the heat in the honey butter.
• Chili Powder – Adds a touch of heat to the honey butter, amplifying the flavor contrast.
For the Waffles
• Belgian Waffle Recipe – Use the linked recipe to prepare waffles that are fluffy and golden, essential for complementing the chicken and waffles experience.
Let’s gather these ingredients and create a meal that’s sure to be the star of your table!
How to Make Chicken and Waffles
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Whisk Together: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, hot sauce, and smoked paprika. Blend until smooth and well mixed. This flavorful brine is essential for deliciously tender chicken.
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Marinate the Chicken: Add boneless skinless chicken thighs to the buttermilk mixture. Let them marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best results. This helps to infuse the chicken with flavor and tenderness.
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Heat the Oil: In a Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy; this ensures your chicken gets that perfect, crispy crust.
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Mix the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Stir well to ensure even distribution of spices for a flavorful crust.
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Dredge the Chicken: Remove marinated chicken from the buttermilk and dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture. Shake off excess flour and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes – this helps the coating stick better.
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Fry the Chicken: Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying them for about 8-9 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Ensure they are cooked through, using a temp of 165°F for safety.
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Prepare the Waffles: While the chicken is frying, whip up the waffles using the linked Belgian waffle recipe. Aim for fluffy, golden waffles to create the perfect base for your dish.
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Make Spicy Honey Butter: In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter over low heat. Stir in honey, chili powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Adjust the flavors according to your heat preference!
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Assemble the Dish: On a serving plate, place a warm waffle, top it with crispy fried chicken, and generously drizzle the spicy honey butter over the top. Enjoy the beautiful, comforting layers of flavor!
Optional: Garnish with fresh fruit or chopped herbs for added color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken and Waffles are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can marinate the boneless skinless chicken thighs in the buttermilk brine up to 24 hours in advance, enhancing the tender flavor. Additionally, cook the chicken and keep it warm in a low-temperature oven until ready to serve, ensuring it stays crispy. The waffles can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; simply reheat them in the toaster for that fresh, fluffy texture. Finally, make the spicy honey butter and store it in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Finish by assembling your delicious Chicken and Waffles just before serving for a delightful brunch experience that tastes just as wonderful as when freshly made!
Chicken and Waffles Recipe Variations
Embrace your inner chef and allow your creativity to shine with these delightful twists!
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Chicken Breasts: Substitute thighs for chicken breasts for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for those wanting a lighter meal.
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Vegetarian Alternative: Use plant-based chicken products or crispy tofu as a substitute in the recipe, giving it a vegetarian twist that’s equally delicious.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding cayenne pepper or fresh diced jalapeños to the buttermilk marinade. This will fire up your taste buds and add an exciting layer of flavor!
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Sweet Toppings: Experiment with flavored syrups like lavender or cinnamon-infused maple syrup, providing a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
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Gravy Lovers: Pour a rich, homemade sausage gravy over the chicken and waffles for a delightful, comforting twist that invokes classic Southern charm and flavor.
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Nuts and Seeds: Add crushed pecans or sesame seeds to the seasoned flour mix for a crunchy texture that elevates the dish’s mouthfeel, making every bite memorable!
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Extra Crunch: Consider panko breadcrumbs in your coating for added crunch. This airy texture makes for an indulgent fried chicken that will satisfy crisp lovers everywhere.
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Bacon Jam: Drizzle some bacon jam over the top for an indulgent, sweet-savory combination that takes this comfort food to extraordinary heights!
What to Serve with Chicken and Waffles?
Elevate your meal experience by pairing these delightful Southern-style chicken and waffles with complementary dishes that enhance every bite.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of berries, melons, and citrus adds brightness and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of chicken and waffles. Sweet flavors balance the dish’s savory elements beautifully.
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Crispy Bacon: The smoky, salty goodness of bacon pairs perfectly with the sweet and spicy notes of the meal. Adding it as a side can create a hearty breakfast or brunch experience.
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Maple Syrup: This classic syrup can take your dish to new heights. Drizzle it over the waffles for an additional layer of sweetness that harmonizes superbly with the spicy honey butter.
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Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the fried chicken and waffles, refreshing the palate with each forkful.
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Lightly Lemonade: The zesty brightness of this drink complements the dish perfectly, making it both refreshing and mouthwatering. It’ll transport your taste buds to a breezy afternoon.
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Peach Cobbler: End your meal on a sweet note with this beloved dessert. The warm, bubbling peaches combined with a flaky crust present a classic Southern duo, rounding out your chicken and waffles experience wonderfully.
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Iced Tea: Sweetened or unsweetened, iced tea is a comforting beverage that pairs harmoniously with the elements of chicken and waffles. It’s perfect for thinning the palate between bites!
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Whipped Butter: Serve this on the side with warm waffles. A dab of whipped butter enhances the fluffy texture of the waffles, complementing the savory elements of the chicken beautifully.
Expert Tips for Chicken and Waffles
- Marinate for Success: Allow the chicken to marinate in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better for maximum tenderness and flavor in your chicken and waffles recipe.
- Rest the Coating: After dredging the chicken, it’s essential to let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the flour coating adhere better during frying.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When frying chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This keeps the oil hot, resulting in crispy chicken, and prevents steaming, which can ruin that perfect crunch.
- Use a Wire Rack: Instead of paper towels, rest the fried chicken on a wire rack. It allows air circulation, ensuring the chicken stays crispy instead of getting soggy.
- Adjust the Heat: Feel free to tweak the levels of hot sauce or chili powder in both the brine and spicy honey butter to make the dish suit your family’s taste preferences.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken and Waffles
Fridge: Store leftover chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain fresh and tasty.
Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze chicken and waffles individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then placed in freezer bags for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To enjoy the chicken and waffles again, reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer at 350°F until heated through and crispy. Serve with fresh spicy honey butter for the best flavor!
Chicken and Waffles Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs for their rich flavor and tenderness. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless chicken breasts can also work, but they may not be as juicy.
How should I store leftover chicken and waffles?
Store your leftover chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their texture and flavor, keeping them fresh for your next meal.
Can I freeze chicken and waffles?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooked chicken and waffles individually in plastic wrap, then place them in freezer bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. This makes for an easy meal when you need a quick comfort food fix.
What should I do if my coating doesn’t stick to the chicken?
If you find that the coating isn’t sticking well, make sure you let the dredged chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before frying. This resting period allows the flour to absorb moisture and helps create a better adhesion to the chicken. Also, ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated in the marinade before dredging!
Are there dietary considerations I should be aware of?
This chicken and waffles recipe is generally suitable for most diets. However, consider any allergies to gluten or dairy, as it contains both flour and buttermilk. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Irresistible Chicken and Waffles Recipe with Spicy Honey Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, hot sauce, and smoked paprika. Blend until smooth and well mixed.
- Add boneless skinless chicken thighs to the buttermilk mixture. Let them marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best results.
- In a Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F.
- In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Stir well to ensure even distribution.
- Remove marinated chicken from the buttermilk and dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture. Shake off excess flour and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying them for about 8-9 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- While the chicken is frying, whip up the waffles using the linked Belgian waffle recipe.
- In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter over low heat. Stir in honey, chili powder, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- On a serving plate, place a warm waffle, top it with crispy fried chicken, and generously drizzle the spicy honey butter over the top.