Fried Chicken and Waffles

by

Fried Chicken and Waffles is a classic Southern comfort food dish that combines crispy, savory fried chicken with fluffy, slightly sweet waffles for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a crowd-pleaser for brunch, dinner, or any special occasion. Here’s how to make it at home:

Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe

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)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 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 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 black 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. 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.

3. Assemble and Serve:

  1. Place a waffle on each plate and top with a piece of fried chicken.
  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

  • Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade or waffle batter.
  • Baked Option: For a lighter version, coat the chicken as directed and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Add Bacon: Serve with crispy bacon on the side for extra flavor.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for both the chicken and waffles.

Enjoy your Fried Chicken and Waffles—a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and crispy! Let me know if you’d like more tips or variations. 😊

Leave a Comment