There’s something magical about late-night kitchen experiments, especially when hunger meets creativity and a craving for comfort food with a twist. One evening, after a long day of recipe testing, I ended up tossing a little extra spice into my waffle batter and combined it with a crispy fried chicken I had on hand. The result? Crispy Chicken Waffles that instantly turned my simple dinner into a mouthwatering flavor adventure. The anticipation while waiting for that combo of crispy, juicy chicken and fluffy, golden waffles was pure excitement. When I finally took that first bite, the blend of textures and bold flavors had me grinning so wide I almost did a happy dance.
This Crispy Chicken Waffles moment was one of those happy accidents—taking a classic combo and amping it up with bold seasonings and perfectly balanced waffle batter for chicken to make every bite sing. I knew I had stumbled onto something special that night, something that would make every meal more exciting. It’s the kind of comfort food that fills your belly and fuels your soul, but with a bold flavor punch you don’t get from your average chicken and waffles.
I love inviting fellow food lovers into this delicious corner of the internet where Crispy Chicken Waffles are more than just a meal—they’re a celebration. Whether you’re feeding a family, throwing a potluck, or craving a late-night snack, this crispy chicken and waffles recipe hits the spot every time. And trust me, folks do a happy dance after tasting this southern chicken waffles creation!
Ready to turn your kitchen into a flavor playground? Let’s dive into what makes this Crispy Chicken Waffles a weeknight winner that keeps me excited every time I make it. If you’re loving this comfort food twist, you’ll go crazy for my crispy feta chicken with hot honey drizzle for another bold flavor favorite that’s guaranteed to wow.
Ingredients You Need
This Crispy Chicken Waffles ingredient list is all about bold flavors that actually work together! Here’s everything you’ll want to have ready on your next crispy chicken and waffles night:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, trimmed and pounded to even thickness
- 2 cups buttermilk (grab this in the dairy aisle during your normal shopping trip)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (for that spicy southern chicken waffles kick)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (this is your crispy fried chicken topping base)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika – adds smoky depth for bold flavor
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – packs savory punch
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt – the foundation of flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 3 large eggs – for dredging
- 1/4 cup melted butter – to brush your waffle batter for chicken and get that golden crust
- 1 cup waffle mix (or your favorite waffle batter for chicken combo)
- Maple syrup – because what’s southern chicken waffles without a drizzle?
No worries if you don’t have buttermilk on hand—I use plain yogurt mixed with a splash of lemon juice all the time in my Crispy Chicken Waffles. Also, feel free to swap smoked paprika for chili powder if you want a slightly different twist. For busy weeknights, prepping your dry flour mix ahead and soaking chicken in buttermilk overnight keeps things speedy and flavorful.
Store your waffles in an airtight container once cooled, and keep leftover crispy fried chicken topping in the fridge for up to 3 days. I love adding extra hot sauce to my batter for a bold spicy kick in this Crispy Chicken Waffles that wakes up all the taste buds.
If you want another spin on this crispy fried chicken topping magic, check out this crispy chicken Caesar sandwich recipe for a tangy, crisp alternative you’ll adore!
Let’s Make Some!
Okay fellow flavor adventurers, time to roll up those sleeves and get your kitchen dance party started with this Crispy Chicken Waffles! Ready to create that perfect combo of crunch, fluff, and soul-satisfying goodness? Here’s how we do it step-by-step:
- Marinate Your Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce. Submerge your chicken pieces and let them soak for at least 1 hour—overnight if you can. This tenderizes chicken and builds flavor from the inside out.
- Mix Your Crispy Fried Chicken Topping: Combine flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a shallow dish. This blend will coat your chicken with that addictive crunch you’re craving.
- Set Up Your Dredging Station: Crack eggs into a bowl and whisk them. Get ready for a dip-dredge-dip-dredge rhythm.
- Heat Your Oil: Use a deep skillet or fryer to heat oil to about 350°F. This gets the chicken crisp and juicy—the key to great southern chicken waffles!
- Dredge Chicken: Dip marinated chicken in egg, then flour mixture. For extra crispy coating, double dredge by repeating egg and flour. Then gently lower into hot oil.
- Fry to Perfection: Fry chicken pieces for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally so every side crisps evenly. The kitchen should be smelling insane right now—your Crispy Chicken Waffles is starting to come to life!
- Warm Your Waffles: While chicken is finishing up, whip up your waffle batter for chicken. Brush waffle iron with melted butter for golden crisp edges. Cook waffles until golden and crispy on the outside, soft inside, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Plate It Up: Stack crispy fried chicken topping generously on warm waffles. Drizzle maple syrup liberally. And if you’re feeling adventurous, how about a spicy honey butter sauce? It’s like the love child of sweet and heat!
In my kitchen, this Crispy Chicken Waffles usually takes about 40 minutes from start to finish—not bad for a dinner that gets rave reviews every time. Don’t stress if your chicken looks a little uneven—sometimes the happy accidents are the best part of this recipe! For quicker weeknight wins, you can bake chicken pieces on a wire rack at 425°F for ~25 minutes then crisp up in a hot skillet.
I love experimenting with this crispy chicken and waffles base; for a more savory vibe, I once swapped out maple syrup for a drizzle of tangy hot honey sauce from this awesome spicy honey butter recipe I found—check it out for that next-level flavor!
How to Serve Up This!
People literally do happy dances when this Crispy Chicken Waffles hits the table with warm butter, maple syrup, and that crispy fried chicken topping crunch. It’s perfect for brunch, late-night snacks, game day, or any time you want your taste buds to throw a party.
For serving, I love layering my southern chicken waffles with a side of spicy slaw or even a scoop of mashed sweet potatoes for extra cozy vibes. Presentation-wise, plating with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of chopped scallions takes it up a notch and wows guests without extra fuss.
Leftovers? Oh yes! Crispy chicken waffle sandwiches are my favorite next-day transformation—just add some spicy mayo and crisp lettuce between two warmed waffles. Another favorite: cut leftover waffles into sticks and serve with maple syrup for dip; perfect for family snacking.
I’ve played around with fusion variations too—imagine Crispy Chicken Waffles topped with a drizzle of Sriracha mayo for a spicy Asian twist or swapping the maple syrup for a smoky chipotle honey glaze for an unexpected flavor pop.
If you’re loving this comfort food twist, you’ll go crazy for these jalapeno popper chicken wraps that bring the heat and melt-in-your-mouth cheese. Check that one out for another bold flavor win perfect for your flavor adventures!
FAQs:
1. Will kitchen newbies succeed with this Crispy Chicken Waffles?
Absolutely! The steps are straightforward, and even if your coating isn’t perfect the first time, the flavors will still shine. I’ve had plenty of fellow food lovers nail it with no fancy tools, just enthusiasm.
2. What if I mess up my Crispy Chicken Waffles? (Spoiler: it’ll still taste incredible!)
If your chicken ends up less crispy or your waffles aren’t perfect, just add extra maple syrup and hot sauce. Flavor masking? Not needed here. It’s all about enjoying the eating experience.
3. Can I prep Crispy Chicken Waffles ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate chicken overnight and pre-mix your flour blend. Waffles are best fresh, but can be reheated in a toaster for crispness. Fried chicken holds up well covered in the fridge for 2-3 days.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free friendly?
You can swap regular flour with a gluten-free blend for the crispy fried chicken topping. Just watch your waffle batter for chicken too and use a GF version there.
5. How do I get super crispy chicken every time?
Double dredging the chicken and frying at the right temperature (around 350°F) is key. Too low, and your crust gets greasy; too high and it burns before cooking through.
6. Can I bake instead of fry the chicken?
Yes, baking on a wire rack at 425°F helps keep chicken juicy. Finish off in a hot skillet for that crispy fried chicken topping magic.
7. What’s your favorite syrup or drizzle?
Classic maple syrup is king, but for a spicy twist, a drizzle of hot honey or spicy honey butter sauce from this southern fried chicken and waffles recipe adds incredible flavor.
8. Any tips for waffle batter for chicken?
I usually mix a simple waffle mix with melted butter and a pinch of salt. Brushing your waffle iron with butter helps create crisp edges every time.
If you want more crispy chicken and waffles inspiration, check out this chicken and waffles recipe for mouthwatering technique tips.
Conclusion
Crispy Chicken Waffles bring me pure joy because they’re where crispy meets cozy and bold flavor gets serious. This dish proves comfort food can be exciting, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion from brunches to weeknight dinners.
My Crispy Chicken Waffles Flavor Secrets:
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce for juicy, tender bites
- Double dredge chicken with spice-packed flour for that unbeatable crispy fried chicken topping
- Brush waffle iron with melted butter for golden, crisp waffles that aren’t just soft and fluffy
I’ve tested loads of variations: swapping out classic maple syrup for chipotle honey, creating jalapeno-spiced waffle batter for chicken, and even adding feta cheese crust for a tangy punch. Each version suits different moods and occasions—from a casual game night to a festive brunch with friends.
Trust your taste buds and get creative with seasoning and sauces because your version of Crispy Chicken Waffles will be uniquely delicious. I’m pumped for you to try this recipe and join the happy dance club that Crispy Chicken Waffles starts every time it hits a plate!
For more flavor-packed recipes, check out my crispy chicken Caesar sandwich that’s as bold as it is satisfying and my crispy feta chicken with hot honey drizzle that will blow you away. Dive deeper into comfort food with a twist—you’ve got this!
Ready, set, crispy chicken and waffles!
Crispy Chicken Waffles
Enjoy a delicious combination of golden crispy fried chicken paired with fluffy, buttery waffles for the perfect sweet and savory meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Maple syrup and butter for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix 2 cups flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk milk, eggs, and melted butter. Combine wet and dry ingredients to make waffle batter.
- Preheat waffle iron and lightly grease it; cook waffles until golden and crisp. Keep warm.
- In a large bowl, soak chicken thighs in buttermilk mixed with paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, dredge thoroughly in 1 1/2 cups flour seasoned with salt and pepper.
- Fry chicken pieces in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve each chicken piece atop a warm waffle, drizzle with maple syrup and add a pat of butter.
Notes
For extra spice, add hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade or serve with spicy honey drizzle.