Chicken and Waffles (using turkey bacon)

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Chicken and Waffles is a classic comfort food dish that combines savory and sweet flavors in the most delicious way. By using turkey bacon, you can add a smoky, savory element while keeping it a bit lighter. Here’s a recipe to make this iconic dish at home:

Chicken and Waffles with Turkey Bacon

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Fried Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

For the Waffles:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 3/4 cups milk
  • 1/3 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For the Turkey Bacon:

  • 8 slices turkey bacon

For Serving:

  • Maple syrup
  • Hot sauce (optional)
  • Butter (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fried Chicken:

  1. Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge) to tenderize it.
  2. In a bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
  4. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to coat evenly.
  5. Fry the chicken in batches for 6-8 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

2. Cook the Turkey Bacon:

  1. While the chicken is frying, cook the turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Set aside.

3. Make the Waffles:

  1. Preheat your waffle iron.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (a few lumps are okay).
  5. Cook the waffles according to your waffle iron’s instructions until golden and crisp.

4. Assemble and Serve:

  1. Place a waffle on each plate, top with a piece of fried chicken, and add 2 slices of turkey bacon on the side.
  2. Drizzle with maple syrup and add a pat of butter if desired. Serve with hot sauce on the side for an extra kick.

Tips

  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the waffle batter.
  • If you prefer baked chicken, coat the chicken as directed and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Make it spicy by adding a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade or waffle batter.

Enjoy your Chicken and Waffles with a twist of turkey bacon! Let me know if you’d like more tips or variations. 😊

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