Description
This classic dish combines crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for brunch, dinner, or any time you want a comforting treat, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Fried Chicken:
- 4 boneless chicken thighs (or 4 bone-in drumsticks)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
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
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Butter (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Fried Chicken:
- In a large bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken pieces and let them marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
- In another bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Remove chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, and dredge in the flour mixture, coating evenly. Shake off excess flour.
- Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes per side. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Prepare the Waffles:
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until golden and crisp.
Assemble:
- Place a waffle on a plate, top with a piece of fried chicken, and drizzle generously with maple syrup.
- Add a pat of butter on top, if desired.
Notes
- For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture.
- Serve with hot sauce or honey for an additional flavor twist.
- To keep chicken warm and crispy, place it on a baking sheet in a 200°F (93°C) oven while cooking in batches.