Looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines the perfect blend of savory and sweet? Look no further! This Chicken and Waffles recipe will teach you how to make crispy, golden fried chicken paired with fluffy, homemade waffles. Whether you're serving it for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this Southern-inspired dish is guaranteed to impress. Follow along to learn everything from ingredients to cooking tips, and get ready to savor every bite!

What Are “Chicken and Waffles”?
Chicken and Waffles is a popular American dish that marries two classic comfort foods—crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles. The origins of this dish are rooted in Southern and soul food traditions, and it’s beloved for the unique combination of flavors. The savory, juicy fried chicken, when paired with a buttery, crispy waffle, creates an irresistible contrast. Typically served with maple syrup or honey for added sweetness, this dish is ideal for anyone who loves sweet-savory pairings.
Ingredients List for Chicken
To achieve that perfect, crispy, and flavorful fried chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4-6 pieces of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 2 cups of buttermilk (for marinating, tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (makes the chicken extra crispy)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 4 cups, or enough for deep frying)
Ingredients List for Waffles
For light, airy, and golden waffles, gather these ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for a hint of sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 ¾ cups milk (whole milk is recommended for richness)
- ½ cup melted butter (for a crispy outer texture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)
Substitutions and Variations
While this recipe will give you classic chicken and waffles, feel free to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.
For the Chicken
- Boneless Chicken: Use boneless chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer. These cook faster but may be less juicy than bone-in cuts.
- Gluten-Free Flour: Use gluten-free flour for the coating if you have gluten sensitivity.
- Air Fryer Option: Instead of deep-frying, use an air fryer to cut down on oil. Coat the chicken in flour as instructed and cook in the air fryer at 380°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
For the Waffles
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk or oat milk for regular milk, and use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the waffle batter for extra warmth and flavor.
- Savory Waffles: For a twist, add a bit of shredded cheese and chopped chives to the batter to complement the fried chicken.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, making sure they are fully submerged in the buttermilk mixture.
- Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating for the Chicken
- In a shallow dish, mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk and allow any excess to drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour into the chicken to ensure a good coating. Set aside.
Step 3: Preheat the Oil
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (use a thermometer to check the temperature).
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove the chicken and let it drain on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
Step 5: Prepare the Waffle Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (a few lumps are okay).
Step 6: Cook the Waffles
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Pour about ½ cup of batter (or the recommended amount for your waffle maker) onto the center of the preheated waffle iron.
- Close the lid and cook until the waffle is golden brown and crisp, usually 4-5 minutes.
- Repeat with remaining batter.
How to Cook Chicken and Waffles: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for tenderness and flavor.
- Coat the chicken in seasoned flour and cornstarch for extra crispiness.
- Fry the chicken in hot oil until golden brown and crispy.
- Mix the waffle batter, being careful not to overmix.
- Cook the waffles in a preheated waffle iron until golden and crisp.
- Serve both components together with syrup, honey, or your favorite toppings!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: When frying chicken, add a few pieces at a time to avoid lowering the oil temperature. Overcrowding can result in soggy, unevenly cooked chicken.
- Overmixing the Waffle Batter: Stir the waffle batter just until combined to prevent dense waffles. A few lumps are okay!
- Skipping the Thermometer: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F) before frying. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy.
- Using Cold Ingredients for Waffles: Let eggs and milk reach room temperature for fluffier waffles.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Chicken and Waffles
- Classic Style: Stack one or two pieces of fried chicken on top of a freshly made waffle. Drizzle with maple syrup or honey.
- With Sides: Serve with coleslaw, pickles, or a simple green salad to balance the richness.
- For Brunch: Add a mimosa or fresh juice on the side for a complete brunch experience.
Presentation Ideas for Chicken and Waffles
- Plating: Serve the waffles stacked with chicken on top, then drizzle syrup in a zig-zag pattern for a visually appealing look.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the top for added color.
- Use a Skillet: Serve the dish in a mini cast-iron skillet for a rustic, Southern-inspired presentation.
Chicken and Waffles Recipe Tips
- Rest the Chicken: After dredging, let the chicken sit for 10 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better.
- Double-Coat for Extra Crispiness: For extra-crispy chicken, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and flour mixture one more time before frying.
- Keep Waffles Warm: If making multiple waffles, keep them warm in a 200°F oven until ready to serve.
- Syrup Warm-Up: Warm the maple syrup slightly before serving. It complements the warm waffles and crispy chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes! Substitute gluten-free flour for both the chicken coating and the waffle batter.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add more hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade, or sprinkle cayenne pepper in the flour mixture.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked frozen waffles?
A: Yes, but homemade waffles add a much better flavor. If using frozen, toast them well for a crispy texture.
Q: What type of syrup pairs best?
A: Classic maple syrup is popular, but honey or hot honey is also delicious with chicken and waffles.
Q: How do I keep fried chicken crispy?
A: Place fried chicken on a wire rack, not paper towels, to allow airflow and prevent sogginess.
Conclusion
Chicken and Waffles is the ultimate combination of crispy, savory fried chicken and light, fluffy waffles. This dish is perfect for a special brunch or a soul-satisfying dinner. With these step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations, you'll be able to whip up restaurant-quality Chicken and Waffles right at home. Enjoy the balance of flavors, and don’t forget the drizzle of maple syrup!
PrintChicken And Waffles Recipe
This classic Chicken and Waffles recipe combines crispy fried chicken with golden, fluffy waffles, creating the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. Ideal for brunch or any meal, this Southern favorite uses simple ingredients for an unforgettable dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
-
For Chicken:
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Buttermilk
- Flour
- Salt
- Pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Oil for frying
-
For Waffles:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Milk
- Eggs
- Butter (melted)
- Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken:
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk for at least 1 hour.
- Mix flour, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Dredge marinated chicken in flour mixture and fry in hot oil until golden and cooked through.
- Prepare Waffles:
- In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Whisk in milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour batter into a heated waffle iron and cook until golden brown.
- Serve:
- Top waffles with fried chicken. Optionally, drizzle with maple syrup.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning.
- Serve with honey or hot sauce for a sweet and spicy twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 35
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