Prepare yourself for the ultimate sweet and savory masterpiece: homemade Chicken and Waffles. Imagine a shatteringly crispy, perfectly seasoned piece of fried chicken resting on a light, airy waffle with deep pockets, all drenched in warm maple syrup. This iconic dish is the pinnacle of comfort food, perfect for a show-stopping brunch, celebratory dinner, or whenever you crave something truly indulgent and delicious.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins (includes marinating time)
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on Chicken Pieces (like thighs and drumsticks)
- 2 cups Buttermilk
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 2 tbsp Cornstarch
- 2 tsp Salt
- 2 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- Vegetable or Peanut Oil, for frying (about 3 inches deep)
For the Fluffy Buttermilk Waffles:
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar
- 2 tsp Baking Powder
- 1 tsp Baking Soda
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 2 Large Eggs
- 1 3/4 cups Buttermilk
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, melted
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
For Serving:
- Warm Maple Syrup
- Powdered Sugar
- Thinly Sliced Chives or Green Onions
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or resealable bag. Pour the 2 cups of buttermilk over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Prepare the Breading: In a wide, shallow dish, whisk together the 2 cups flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Heat the Frying Oil: Pour about 3 inches of oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Bread the Chicken: Remove a piece of chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge it thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to make sure it’s completely coated. For an extra-crispy crust, dip it back into the buttermilk and then into the flour a second time.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil, skin-side down. Fry in batches of 2-3 pieces to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, until deep golden brown, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack to drain.
- Make the Waffle Batter: While the chicken cooks, preheat your waffle iron. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate medium bowl, whisk the eggs, 1 3/4 cups buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined—a few lumps are okay!
- Cook the Waffles: Lightly grease your hot waffle iron. Pour the batter onto the center of the iron (the amount will depend on your specific waffle maker) and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions, until golden brown and crisp.
- Serve and Enjoy: Place a hot waffle on each plate. Top with a piece of crispy fried chicken. Dust generously with powdered sugar, drizzle with plenty of warm maple syrup, and garnish with sliced chives. Serve immediately and enjoy the incredible combination of flavors and textures!
Recipe Notes:
- The Secret to Crispy Chicken: The double dredge (flour-buttermilk-flour) is the key to creating that super craggy, ultra-crispy crust. Also, make sure your oil is at the correct temperature before adding the chicken.
- Keep Everything Warm: To serve everything hot, place a wire rack on a baking sheet and keep the cooked chicken and waffles in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you finish cooking the remaining batches.
- Don’t Overmix the Waffle Batter: A few lumps in your batter are a good thing! Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour and can lead to tough, chewy waffles instead of light and fluffy ones.
- Make it Spicy: For a delicious kick, make a quick hot honey! Gently warm 1/2 cup of maple syrup with 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite hot sauce and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Waffle Iron Tip: Every waffle iron is different. Get to know yours! You’re looking for a waffle that is golden and crisp on the outside but still tender and fluffy on the inside.
There you have it—a truly show-stopping plate of Chicken and Waffles that’s bursting with flavor and pure comfort. The savory, crispy chicken paired with the sweet, fluffy waffle is a match made in culinary heaven. We hope you love making and sharing this unforgettable meal!
Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 1150; Fat: 65g (Saturated Fat: 25g); Carbohydrates: 95g; Sugar: 30g; Sodium: 1800mg; Protein: 45g;
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is estimated and can vary depending on specific ingredients, brands, and serving sizes used. This information is provided for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or nutritional advice.
