Name: Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h 45 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: FRIED CHICKEN:; 1 chicken; 3 cups buttermilk; 1 tbsp kosher salt; Vegetable Oil; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp Cayenne pepper; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; freshly ground black pepper; Waffles:; 2 cups all-purpose flour; ¼ cup white sugar; 1 tsp Baking Soda; 1 tsp baking powder; ⅙ tsp salt; 1 cup milk; ¼ cup sour cream; 3 eggs; 8 tbsp butter

A delightful combination of fried chicken and waffles brings Southern comfort to your table. Perfect for brunch or a hearty dinner, this dish offers a blend of crispy, juicy chicken and fluffy waffles, all topped with sweet maple syrup.

Photos of Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe

Some ingredients like buttermilk and sour cream might not be staples in every household. These items can be found in the dairy section of your supermarket. Cayenne pepper and smoked paprika add a unique flavor profile and can usually be found in the spice aisle.

Ingredients For Fried Chicken And Waffles

chicken: The main protein for the dish, providing a juicy and flavorful base for frying.

buttermilk: Adds tenderness and flavor to the chicken during marination.

kosher salt: Used for seasoning and enhancing the flavor of the chicken.

vegetable oil: Essential for frying the chicken to a crispy golden brown.

all-purpose flour: Creates the coating that crisps up when fried.

cayenne pepper: Adds a spicy kick to the chicken's coating.

smoked paprika: Provides a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the chicken.

black pepper: Freshly ground to add a pungent spice to the chicken.

white sugar: Sweetens the waffle batter slightly, balancing the flavors.

baking soda: Helps the waffles rise and become fluffy.

baking powder: Works with baking soda to leaven the waffles.

salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the waffles.

milk: Provides moisture and richness to the waffle batter.

sour cream: Adds a tangy flavor and extra tenderness to the waffles.

eggs: Adds structure and stability to the waffle batter.

butter: Melts into the waffles, providing a rich, buttery taste.

One reader, Jacklyn Wadsworth says:

This fried chicken and waffles recipe is a game-changer! The chicken is perfectly crispy and flavorful, while the waffles are light and fluffy. The combination is simply divine, especially with a drizzle of maple syrup. A must-try for brunch lovers!

Jacklyn Wadsworth

Key Techniques for Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe

How to beat egg whites: Explanation on how to beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. How to fry chicken: Explanation on how to properly fry chicken in a deep skillet or Dutch oven. How to use a waffle iron: Explanation on how to heat and use a waffle iron to cook waffles.

How To Make Fried Chicken and Waffles

Put together a delightful meal with these chicken and waffles, with a perfectly seasoned chicken and soft, golden waffles, topped with maple syrup.

Preparation: 45 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Marinate and Rest Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Total: 3 hours 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

Fried Chicken:

1chicken,cut into pieces
3cupsbuttermilk
1tbspKosher salt
vegetable oil,for frying
2cupsall-purpose flour
1tspcayenne pepper,optional
1tbspsmoked paprika
freshly ground black pepper

Waffles:

2cupsall-purpose flour
¼cupwhite sugar
1tspbaking soda
1tspbaking powder
⅙tspsalt
1cupmilk
¼cupsour cream
3eggs,whites and yolks separated
8tbspbutter,melted, plus more for the waffle iron

Instructions

In a large bowl, mix together buttermilk and 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the chicken pieces, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Waffle:

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda and powder, and salt.
Stir the milk, sour cream, butter and egg yolks. Fold the mixture into the dry ingredients just until combined.
Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form and fold into the batter. Do not over mix.
Heat the waffle iron, brush grates with melted butter. Spoon about ⅓ cup of batter onto the hot waffle iron and cook until golden, for about 5 minutes. Repeat until finished.

Fried Chicken:

In a large shallow bowl, whisk together flour, cayenne, paprika, salt, and pepper. Using tongs, take the chicken from the buttermilk mixture and toss it into the flour mixture. Shake off excess and place onto a wire rack to rest for 30 minutes.
Fill a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil until it reaches 350 degrees F. Prepare a sheet pan with paper towels, top it with a wire rack. Set aside.
Fry chicken in batches for about 6 to 8 minutes until cooked and golden, and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Remove chicken to prepared wire rack.
Add waffles to a plate, top with chicken and drizzle with maple syrup before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 1094.13kcal
Fat: 59.82g
Saturated Fat: 22.19g
Trans Fat: 0.88g
Monounsaturated Fat: 23.48g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.31g
Carbohydrates: 82.13g
Fiber: 3.12g
Sugar: 16.99g
Protein: 54.56g
Cholesterol: 284.64mg
Sodium: 1200.62mg
Calcium: 316.35mg
Potassium: 806.09mg
Iron: 6.64mg
Vitamin A: 333.20µg
Vitamin C: 4.75mg

Expert Advice for Perfecting Fried Chicken and Waffles

For perfectly crispy fried chicken, make sure to let the coated chicken rest on a wire rack for 30 minutes before frying. This allows the flour mixture to adhere better, resulting in a crunchier crust.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Dish

Marinate overnight: Prepare the chicken in the buttermilk mixture the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Pre-mix dry ingredients: Combine all the dry ingredients for both the waffles and fried chicken in separate containers ahead of time.

Use a deep fryer: If available, use a deep fryer instead of a skillet to ensure even cooking and reduce monitoring time.

Batch cooking: Cook waffles and chicken in batches to streamline the process and keep the workflow smooth.

Keep warm: Use an oven set to low heat to keep cooked waffles and fried chicken warm while you finish cooking the rest.

Substitute Ingredients For Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe

chicken - Substitute with turkey: Turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to chicken, providing a similar texture and flavor profile.
buttermilk - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can mimic the tanginess and tenderizing properties of buttermilk.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of seasoning and flavor enhancement.
vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for frying.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a slightly nutty flavor and more fiber to the dish.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can provide a similar heat level with a slightly different flavor profile.
smoked paprika - Substitute with regular paprika: Regular paprika can be used if smoked paprika is unavailable, though it will lack the smoky flavor.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can provide a similar spiciness without the black specks.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness with a slightly different flavor and additional moisture.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: If baking soda is unavailable, baking powder can be used, though you may need to adjust the quantity.
baking powder - Substitute with cream of tartar and baking soda: A mixture of cream of tartar and baking soda can replicate the leavening effect of baking powder.
salt - Substitute with Himalayan pink salt: Himalayan pink salt can provide a similar level of seasoning with a slightly different mineral content.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a similar consistency.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a similar tanginess and creaminess as sour cream.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs can be used as a vegan alternative, providing binding properties.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a similar fat content and richness.

Plating Ideas for Fried Chicken and Waffles

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present a single piece of fried chicken atop a perfectly golden waffle. This ensures the dish looks elegant and refined.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary to add a touch of color and sophistication.
Drizzle with precision: Drizzle maple syrup artistically over the chicken and waffle, ensuring it cascades down the sides for a visually appealing effect.
Add a side of fruit: Include a small side of fresh berries or a fruit compote to add a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken and waffles.
Use high-quality plates: Serve the dish on a pristine, white porcelain plate to make the colors of the chicken and waffles pop and to give a clean, professional presentation.
Incorporate microgreens: Sprinkle a few microgreens on top of the chicken for an added touch of elegance and a hint of freshness.
Create height: Stack the waffle and chicken in a way that adds height to the dish, making it look more dynamic and visually appealing.
Use a sauce brush: Use a brush to apply a thin layer of maple syrup or a spicy honey glaze on the plate before placing the waffle and chicken to add an artistic touch.
Highlight textures: Ensure the waffle is crispy and the chicken is perfectly fried to showcase the contrasting textures, which is a hallmark of a well-executed dish.
Finish with a dusting: Lightly dust the plate with a bit of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to add a subtle hint of color and spice, enhancing the overall presentation.

Essential Equipment for Making This Recipe

Large bowl: Used for mixing the buttermilk and salt with the chicken pieces for marination.
Refrigerator: Essential for chilling the marinated chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Whisk: Handy for whisking together the dry ingredients for the waffle batter.
Waffle iron: Necessary for cooking the waffle batter into golden, crispy waffles.
Tongs: Useful for handling the chicken pieces from the buttermilk mixture to the flour mixture and then to the frying oil.
Wire rack: Important for letting the coated chicken rest before frying and for draining excess oil after frying.
Deep skillet or Dutch oven: Required for deep frying the chicken pieces.
Thermometer: Essential for ensuring the oil reaches and maintains the correct frying temperature of 350 degrees F.
Sheet pan: Used to hold the wire rack and paper towels for draining the fried chicken.
Paper towels: Placed on the sheet pan to absorb excess oil from the fried chicken.
Mixing bowl: Needed for combining the wet ingredients for the waffle batter.
Electric mixer: Useful for beating the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring out the ingredients for both the chicken and waffle recipes.
Measuring spoons: Used for measuring smaller quantities of ingredients like salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
Spatula: Handy for folding the egg whites into the waffle batter without over-mixing.
Brush: Used for brushing melted butter onto the waffle iron grates.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Fried Chicken and Waffles

To store leftover fried chicken, let it cool to room temperature first. Place the chicken pieces in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
For the waffles, let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, stack them with a piece of parchment paper between each waffle to prevent sticking. Place the stack in a freezer-safe bag or container, seal tightly, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To freeze the fried chicken, let it cool completely on a wire rack. Place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they're not touching each other. Freeze for 2-3 hours until solid, then transfer the frozen pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to reheat frozen waffles, place them in a toaster or toaster oven until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
To reheat frozen fried chicken, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid using the microwave, as it will make the chicken soggy.

Reheating Fried Chicken and Waffles for Best Results

The best way to reheat leftover fried chicken is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows the hot air to circulate around the chicken, keeping it crispy. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Another option is to use an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the fried chicken in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
For the waffles, the best method is to use a toaster or toaster oven. Simply place the waffles in the toaster and heat until warmed through and slightly crispy. If you don't have a toaster, you can also reheat them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the waffles on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-7 minutes.
If you want to reheat both the fried chicken and waffles together, you can use the oven method. Place the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, and the waffles directly on the baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until everything is heated through and crispy.
Avoid using the microwave to reheat fried chicken, as it can make the breading soggy and the meat tough. If you must use the microwave, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
When reheating, always ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness.
To add some extra flavor and moisture to your reheated fried chicken, try drizzling a little bit of honey or hot sauce over the top before serving.

Interesting Trivia About Fried Chicken and Waffles

markdown The combination of fried chicken and waffles is believed to have originated in the United States during the late 19th century. It became popular in the 1930s at the Wells Supper Club in Harlem, New York, where it was served as a late-night meal for jazz musicians and patrons.

Budget-Friendly Tips for Making Fried Chicken and Waffles

When analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this fried chicken and waffles recipe, it scores a solid 8 out of 10. The primary ingredients like chicken, buttermilk, flour, and eggs are relatively inexpensive and commonly found in most households. The use of vegetable oil for frying and basic pantry staples like sugar and baking powder further enhance its affordability. For a household of 4 people, the approximate cost would be around $20-$25 USD, making it a budget-friendly yet indulgent meal option.

Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for fried chicken and waffles is undoubtedly delicious, but it's not the healthiest option out there. Here's why:

Deep-fried chicken: While chicken itself is a good source of protein, deep-frying it adds a significant amount of unhealthy saturated and trans fats.
Refined flour: The recipe uses all-purpose flour for both the chicken coating and the waffles, which is a refined carbohydrate lacking in fiber and nutrients.
High in calories: The combination of fried chicken, waffles, and maple syrup makes for a calorie-dense meal that may contribute to weight gain if consumed regularly.
Sodium content: The use of salt in the chicken marinade and seasoning can lead to a high sodium content, which may be a concern for those with high blood pressure or heart disease.

To make this recipe healthier, consider these suggestions:

Opt for baking or air-frying the chicken instead of deep-frying to reduce the amount of unhealthy fats
Replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of sugar in the waffle batter to lower the overall calorie count
Experiment with healthier toppings like fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, or sugar-free syrup to add flavor without the extra calories and sugar
Serve the meal with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad to balance out the plate and add more nutrients to the overall dish

Editor's Opinion on This Classic Comfort Food Combo

This recipe offers a delightful combination of savory and sweet, perfect for brunch or dinner. The buttermilk marinade ensures the chicken is tender and flavorful, while the spice blend adds a nice kick. The waffles, with their light and fluffy texture, complement the crispy chicken beautifully. The step of folding in beaten egg whites is a great touch for achieving airy waffles. Frying the chicken to a golden perfection and pairing it with maple syrup creates a harmonious balance of flavors. Overall, this dish is a comforting and indulgent treat that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Collard Greens with Bacon: Collard Greens with Bacon: Imagine the smoky, savory goodness of bacon mingling with the earthy richness of collard greens. This side dish adds a delightful contrast to the crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles, making each bite a symphony of flavors.

Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these sweet potato fries bring a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory fried chicken. A sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of cinnamon elevate this side to a whole new level.

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection with a drizzle of maple syrup, creating a caramelized exterior that complements the crispy fried chicken. The slight bitterness of the sprouts balances the sweetness, making it a harmonious addition to your meal.

Cornbread Muffins: Cornbread Muffins: Soft, buttery cornbread muffins with a hint of sweetness are the perfect accompaniment to your fried chicken and waffles. Their golden crust and tender crumb add a comforting touch to this classic dish.

Watermelon Salad with Feta: Watermelon Salad with Feta: Refreshing watermelon cubes tossed with tangy feta cheese, fresh mint, and a splash of lime juice. This vibrant salad provides a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken and waffles, leaving your palate refreshed.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Dish

Chicken And Waffle Sliders: Imagine bite-sized fried chicken nestled between mini waffles, drizzled with maple syrup and a hint of hot sauce. Perfect for a brunch party or a fun dinner twist!

Southern Biscuits And Gravy: Fluffy buttermilk biscuits smothered in a rich, creamy sausage gravy. This classic Southern comfort food will make your taste buds sing with every bite.

Chicken And Biscuit Casserole: Tender pieces of chicken and vegetables baked in a creamy sauce, topped with golden biscuits. This hearty casserole is the epitome of comfort food.

Maple Bacon Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes infused with crispy bacon bits and a touch of maple syrup. Each bite is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making breakfast the best meal of the day.

Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits: Crispy fried chicken fillets sandwiched between warm, flaky biscuits, slathered with a generous amount of honey butter. A delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Fried Chicken and Waffles

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with Stuffed Mushrooms, a savory bite-sized treat. These mushrooms are filled with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the rich, cheesy filling, making them an irresistible starter. Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh parsley for an elegant touch.

Shrimp Cocktail: Impress your guests with a classic Shrimp Cocktail. This appetizer features succulent shrimp poached in a flavorful broth of lemon, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Serve chilled with a zesty cocktail sauce made from ketchup, horseradish, and a splash of lemon juice. Arrange the shrimp around a bowl of sauce for a stunning presentation.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, fluffy cake. This dessert is a showstopper, perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a luxurious treat. Serve it warm, allowing the chocolate lava to ooze out when cut, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries add the final touch to this decadent delight.

Lemon Meringue Pie: This classic dessert features a tangy lemon curd filling nestled in a buttery, flaky crust, topped with a cloud of golden-brown meringue. The contrast between the zesty lemon and the sweet, airy meringue creates a harmonious balance of flavors. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to any meal, and garnish with a few lemon zest curls or a sprig of mint for an elegant presentation.

Why trust this Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe:

This recipe combines the classic comfort of fried chicken with the delightful crunch of waffles. The buttermilk marinade ensures the chicken is juicy and flavorful, while the spices in the coating add a perfect kick. The waffles are light and fluffy, thanks to the beaten egg whites. With clear instructions and carefully chosen ingredients, this recipe guarantees a delicious and satisfying meal. Trust in the balance of flavors and textures to deliver a dish that will impress every time.

If you've tried this delicious Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe, we'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Share your tips, tricks, and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken in buttermilk?

I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours, but if you have the time, overnight is even better. This helps tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

Can I use a different type of oil for frying the chicken?

Yes, you can use other oils with a high smoke point like canola oil or peanut oil. Just make sure the oil can handle the high frying temperature.

Do I need to separate the eggs for the waffle batter?

Yes, you do. Separate the egg yolks and mix them with the wet ingredients, then beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form and fold them into the batter. This makes the waffles light and fluffy.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. The chicken should also be golden and crispy on the outside.

Can I make the waffles ahead of time?

You can make the waffles ahead of time and keep them warm in a low oven (around 200 degrees F) until you're ready to serve. This way, they stay crispy and warm until you pair them with the fried chicken.