Chicken and Waffles

Name: Chicken and Waffles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup all-purpose flour; Oil for frying; 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 2 large eggs; 1 ¾ cups milk; ½ cup melted butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Maple syrup; Butter; Powdered sugar (optional)

Highlighted under: Cookie Jar | Sweet Biscuits

I can't resist the comforting combination of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles, and that's why I love making Chicken and Waffles at home. It's a dish that brings together savory and sweet, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch. The crunch of the chicken pairs beautifully with the soft texture of the waffles, and drizzling them with syrup elevates the experience to a whole new level. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll be hooked!

Created by

The Cheforlandocooks Team

Last updated on 2026-03-04T21:13:52.058Z

When I first tried Chicken and Waffles at my local brunch spot, I was amazed at how well the flavors blended. The crispy chicken's salty notes were perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the waffles, creating a dish that was hard to resist. Recreating this at home wasn't just a challenge; it became a fun project to experiment with spices and homemade waffle recipes!

I found that marinating the chicken in buttermilk makes it incredibly tender and juicy, which is a game-changer. Pair this with a fluffy waffle recipe that I perfected over time, and you'll have a meal that feels both homey and indulgent. Always remember, the right syrup—preferably maple—makes all the difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The crispy chicken contrasts beautifully with the soft, fluffy waffles
A perfect balance of sweet and savory that satisfies cravings
Quick and easy to prepare for a delightful breakfast surprise

Perfecting the Chicken

To achieve perfectly crispy fried chicken, the marination process is essential. The buttermilk not only adds moisture but also acts as a tenderizing agent due to its acidity. When combined with spices like paprika and garlic powder, it infuses the chicken with flavor that permeates throughout. Aim for at least one hour of marinating, but letting it sit overnight in the refrigerator will yield even juicier results. The key is to ensure that every piece is well-coated for maximum flavor absorption.

When frying, using an oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or peanut oil, is crucial. Heat the oil to a steady 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying results. This temperature ensures that the chicken cooks through without absorbing excess oil. Frying in batches is a good practice to maintain the oil temperature; overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature and lead to greasy chicken. Fry each piece until they reach a deep golden brown, approximately 7-8 minutes per side.

Waffle Wonders

The key to fluffy waffles lies in the proper mixing technique. After combining the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix when adding the wet ingredients. Mixing just until combined allows some lumps to remain, which contributes to the light texture of the waffles. If you prefer a slightly denser waffle, adding an extra egg or replacing a portion of the milk with yogurt can lend a richer flavor without sacrificing structure.

When it comes to cooking, preheating the waffle iron is non-negotiable. This allows the batter to begin cooking immediately, resulting in that signature crispy exterior. Each waffle typically takes about 5 minutes in the iron, but the exact timing may vary based on your specific model. For an added touch, consider sprinkling a few chocolate chips or blueberries onto the batter just before closing the iron for a flavor twist.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving Chicken and Waffles is all about balance and presentation. I recommend stacking the chicken on top of the waffle for an appealing plate, then drizzling with warm maple syrup. A dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch if desired. For a savory twist, try adding hot sauce alongside the syrup to cater to spicy preferences. The contrast of flavors enhances the dish, making it a memorable meal.

If you're looking to prepare the dish in advance, both the chicken and waffles can be made ahead of time. Store fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) to retain crispiness. Waffles can be frozen and reheated in a toaster or oven, making this a convenient option for quick breakfasts later. Just be cautious with reheating to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make delicious Chicken and Waffles:

For the Chicken

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup all-purpose flour
Oil for frying

For the Waffles

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 ¾ cups milk
½ cup melted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract

For Serving

Maple syrup
Butter
Powdered sugar (optional)

Ensure you have fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chicken and Waffles:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, making sure they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Prepare the Waffle Batter

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Dredge the marinated chicken thighs in flour until fully coated. Fry the chicken for about 7-8 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

Cook the Waffles

Preheat your waffle iron. Pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually about 5 minutes, until golden brown.

Serve

Place a waffle on a plate, top with a piece of fried chicken, and drizzle generously with maple syrup. Enjoy your homemade Chicken and Waffles!

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, you can double-coat the chicken in flour. Also, try adding spices like cayenne or black pepper for a flavorful kick!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you find yourself without buttermilk, a quick homemade substitute can be made by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about five minutes before using. This will give the same acidity needed for tenderizing the chicken. Alternatively, you can use yogurt thinned with a little water, which works equally well.

For those looking for a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour for the waffles. This adds a nutty flavor and increases the fiber content. Just be aware that the texture might be slightly denser, so you may wish to add a bit more baking powder for extra lift.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken isn't crispy enough after frying, ensure that the oil temperature is at least 350°F (175°C). If the heat is too low, the chicken will absorb more oil, resulting in a soggy exterior. Also, make sure to use enough oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces for even frying.

For waffles that stick to the iron, it’s important to adequately grease the surface with cooking spray or oil before pouring the batter. This can prevent tearing and ensure a beautiful, intact waffle. If your waffles turn out too dry, check your batter consistency; it should be thick yet pourable. Adding a little more milk can remedy overly thick batter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If using breasts, consider marinating longer for tenderness.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes.

→ Can I make the waffles ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the waffles in advance and reheat them in a toaster or oven to maintain crispiness.

→ What oils are best for frying chicken?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are great options for frying due to their high smoke points.