Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of sizzling chicken drifts through the air, instantly transporting me to a bustling Southern kitchen on a sunlit morning. There’s something undeniably joyful about preparing Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles, a classic that effortlessly brings together savory and sweet in one satisfying dish. With its crispy chicken and fluffy waffles, this recipe promises to be your go-to comfort food for brunch or a cozy breakfast at home. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress family and friends. Plus, there’s a delightful gluten-free option, making it accessible for everyone at your table! Curious about how to create this perfect pairing in your own kitchen? Let’s dive into the details! Why are Fried Chicken and Waffles a must-try? Irresistible Flavor Fusion: The combination of savory fried chicken and sweet, fluffy waffles creates a delightful contrast that satisfies every craving. Easy, Quick Prep: Perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches, this recipe comes together effortlessly, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Versatile Serving Options: Dress it up with maple syrup, fresh berries, or even a dollop of whipped cream for a special touch. Family Favorite: This dish has universal appeal, ensuring smiles all around the table, much like a comforting plate of Chicken Dumplings Cozy. Gluten-Free Adaptability: Want to accommodate different diets? Simply swap in gluten-free flour for the waffles without sacrificing a bit of flavor. Texture Heaven: Enjoy the crispy exterior of the chicken juxtaposed with the light and airy waffles—each bite is a satisfying blend that’s hard to resist! Fried Chicken and Waffles Ingredients For the Fried Chicken • Chicken Thighs – Bone-in, skin-on ensures maximum flavor and moisture. • Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken, making it exceptionally juicy. • All-purpose Flour – Creates the crispy layer everyone loves when frying. • Paprika – Adds a beautiful color and a subtle warmth to your chicken. • Garlic Powder – Enhances the umami flavor in the chicken coating. • Onion Powder – Delivers savory depth for a more robust taste. • Cayenne Pepper – Introduces a touch of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the waffles. • Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to suit your personal taste. • Vegetable Oil – Choose a high smoke point oil for frying, ensuring a perfectly crisp exterior. For the Waffles • All-purpose Flour – The base for fluffy waffles; can swap for gluten-free flour for a Fried Chicken and Waffles gluten-free option. • Sugar – Adds just the right hint of sweetness to balance the savory chicken. • Baking Powder – Essential for achieving that light and airy texture. • Eggs – Provides richness and structure; can use flaxseed eggs for a vegan alternative. • Milk – Helps create the perfect batter consistency; substitute with any plant-based option if needed. • Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter – Adds moisture and richness to the waffles. Optional Toppings • Maple Syrup – A classic drizzle that enhances the sweet and savory experience. • Fresh Berries – Adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate. • Whipped Cream – For that extra indulgent touch, making it feel like a special treat! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fried Chicken and Waffles Step 1: Marinate the Chicken In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse and the chicken to tenderize, ensuring juicy and flavorful fried chicken when cooked. Step 2: Prepare the Coating While the chicken marinates, set up your coating station. In a shallow dish, mix all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Prepare it close to your frying area, allowing a smooth transition from marinated chicken to crispy coating as you dredge each piece evenly to achieve that signature crispy texture. Step 3: Heat the Oil In a deep skillet or large pot, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the chicken pieces by about an inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping in a small pinch of flour; it should sizzle immediately, signaling that it’s time to fry your delicious fried chicken. Step 4: Fry the Chicken Carefully add the coated chicken thighs into the hot oil, without overcrowding the pan. Fry each piece for about 10-12 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Use tongs to turn the chicken and maintain an even cooking process, ensuring all sides are perfectly crisp. Step 5: Make the Waffles While the chicken is frying, preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, and baking powder. In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients—eggs, milk, and melted butter. Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine for light, fluffy waffles. Step 6: Cook the Waffles Once the waffle iron is hot, pour the batter into the preheated iron, spreading it evenly. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp around the edges, about 4-5 minutes, depending on your waffle iron. Repeat this process for the remaining batter, stacking the waffles neatly as they cook. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Now that you have your golden crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles ready, it’s time to serve! Place a waffle on a plate, top it with a piece of fried chicken, and drizzle with maple syrup. Add fresh berries or whipped cream if desired for an extra delight. This irresistible combination of fried chicken and waffles is now ready to share, bringing joy to your table! Fried Chicken and Waffles Variations Feel free to add your own twist to this classic dish and make it even more delightful on your palate! Air Fryer Chicken: Use an air fryer for a lighter, crispy chicken that’s easy to make. It’s a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. Buttermilk Substitute: If you’re out of buttermilk, just mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice; it works like magic. Gluten-Free Delight: Swap in a gluten-free flour blend for the waffles to ensure everyone can join in on the comfort! Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for a zesty kick. It beautifully contrasts the waffles’ sweetness. Whole Wheat Waffles: For a heartfelt health twist, use whole wheat flour in your waffle batter while still keeping them fluffy and delicious. Herbed Chicken: Mix herbs like rosemary or thyme into the flour coating for an aromatic flavor that will elevate your fried chicken. Sweet Infusion: Incorporate a hint of vanilla extract or almond extract into the waffle batter for an extra layer of flavor that dances on the tongue. Savory Bacon-Waffles: Add crispy crumbled bacon into your waffle batter for a savory twist that makes every bite heartier and more satisfying. By exploring these variations, you’re sure to find a combination that suits your taste, just like a warm plate of Honey Pepper Chicken or Bbq Chicken Pizza. Enjoy the journey of making this beloved comfort food even more special! How to Store and Freeze Fried Chicken and Waffles Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps to keep the fried chicken crispy and the waffles tender, but they may lose some crunch over time. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze fried chicken and waffles separately in airtight bags up to 2 months. Wrap them well to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor. Reheating: To reheat, place fried chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy. Waffles can be reheated in a toaster or microwave, keeping their fluffy texture intact. Serving Tip: For the best experience, serve reheated fried chicken and waffles with fresh toppings, like syrup or berries, for that delicious comfort food vibe. What to Serve with Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles When serving Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles, you can create a delightful brunch spread that elevates your meal beyond the ordinary. Creamy Coleslaw: Its crunchy texture and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the fried chicken. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A must-have! The sweet syrup beautifully balances the savory chicken and fluffy waffles, creating harmony on your plate. Honey Butter: The rich, sweet butter adds a luscious touch, melting into the waffles and enhancing their flavor while complementing the chicken perfectly. Fresh Berries: Serve a side of strawberries or blueberries for a pop of color and a burst of fresh, juicy sweetness to brighten your meal. Homemade Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits can soak up any extra syrup or chicken juices, adding to the comfort food experience; irresistible when slathered with butter! Iced Tea: A classic Southern drink, sweet or unsweetened iced tea refreshes the palate and pairs well with the hearty flavors of this dish. Grits or Polenta: Creamy grits offer a warm, cheesy component that complements the fried chicken’s crunch; for a twist, try flavorful polenta instead. Fried Green Tomatoes: These crispy slices add a unique Southern flair; their slight tang pairs beautifully with both chicken and waffles. Make Ahead Options These Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the buttermilk and spices up to 24 hours in advance, which not only infuses more flavor but also tenderizes the meat beautifully. Additionally, you can mix the dry ingredients for the waffle batter and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply prepare the waffles as instructed and fry the marinated chicken—this will ensure that everything tastes just as delicious, saving you precious time on busy mornings. Enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort by prepping ahead! Tips for the Best Fried Chicken and Waffles Oil Temperature Matters: Ensure the oil is at 350°F (175°C) before frying to achieve perfect crispiness in your fried chicken and waffles. Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches if necessary; overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken instead of the desired crunch. Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients for waffles, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense waffles instead of light, airy ones. Quality Marinade: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to ensure maximum flavor absorption and tenderness, resulting in delicious fried chicken and waffles. Rest Before Serving: After frying, let the chicken rest on a wire rack for a few minutes so it retains its crispiness and doesn’t steam, maintaining that perfect texture. Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken is best for this recipe? Absolutely! Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal because they offer the best flavor and moisture. However, you can also use chicken breasts or drumsticks if you prefer, just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked completely. How should I store leftover fried chicken and waffles? For optimal freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you want to retain some of that crispiness, reheat the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Waffles can be gently reheated in a toaster or microwave, though they’re best eaten fresh. Can I freeze fried chicken and waffles? Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap each piece of fried chicken and each waffle in plastic wrap, and then place them in airtight freezer bags. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the chicken in the oven and warm the waffles in the toaster for that freshly-cooked taste! What are some common mistakes to avoid when making fried chicken and waffles? One common mistake is not letting the chicken marinate long enough; aim for at least 30 minutes to allow the buttermilk to tenderize the chicken effectively. Another pitfall is overcrowding the frying pan—fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature, ensuring that the chicken comes out crispy rather than soggy. Finally, avoid overmixing the waffle batter; keep it slightly lumpy for that light, fluffy texture. Are there any dietary considerations for this dish? Definitely! If you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for both the chicken coating and the waffle batter. Also, be mindful of allergens: you can use dairy alternatives such as almond milk or a vegan egg substitute if needed. Always check with guests about any dietary restrictions to ensure everybody can enjoy this comfort food classic! Fried Chicken and Waffles Fried Chicken and Waffles combines savory and sweet flavors, making it a must-try comfort food classic. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: SouthernCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Fried Chicken4 pieces Chicken Thighs Bone-in, skin-on2 cups Buttermilk For marinating1 cup All-purpose Flour For coating1 tbsp Paprika For seasoning1 tsp Garlic Powder For seasoning1 tsp Onion Powder For seasoning0.5 tsp Cayenne Pepper For a touch of heatto taste Salt For seasoningto taste Pepper For seasoningvegetable oil Vegetable Oil For fryingFor the Waffles1.5 cups All-purpose Flour Can swap for gluten-free flour2 tbsp Sugar For sweetness1 tbsp Baking Powder For leavening2 large Eggs Can use flaxseed eggs for vegan1 cup Milk Can use plant-based milk2 tbsp Vegetable Oil or Melted Butter For moistureOptional Toppingsto taste Maple Syrup For drizzlingto taste Fresh Berries For garnishto taste Whipped Cream For garnish Equipment Waffle IronDeep Skillet or Large Pot Method Marinating and CoatingIn a large bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Add chicken thighs, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Set up near frying area.Frying the ChickenPour vegetable oil into the skillet, heat to 350°F. Test oil with a pinch of flour.Add coated chicken thighs to hot oil. Fry for 10-12 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.Making the WafflesPreheat waffle iron. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder. In another bowl, mix eggs, milk, and oil.Fold wet mixture into dry ingredients until just combined.Pour batter into waffle iron, cook until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes.ServingServe a waffle topped with fried chicken, drizzle with syrup, and add berries or whipped cream if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 1200mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesAllow chicken to rest after frying. Ensure oil temperature is correct for crispiness. Avoid overcrowding during frying for best results. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
