Homemade Chicken and Waffles

Chicken and Waffles is a delightful comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any table. This healthy version combines tender chicken, flour, baking powder, and a hint of seasoning, creating a dish that’s low-carb and high in protein. Paired with fluffy waffles made from eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, every bite offers a balance of taste and nutrition. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, it’s a meal that everyone can enjoy with a splash of syrup and melted butter.

Chicken and Waffles with my daughters. I was pleasantly surprised at how well the lighter ingredients worked together, creating a satisfying dish that didn’t compromise on flavor. We experimented with veggie substitutes for the chicken and added our favorite toppings like fresh fruits and crispy bacon. It’s a versatile meal that’s perfect for health-conscious foodies or anyone who craves deliciousness without guilt!

Ingredients: Chicken and Waffles Recipe

• 1 lb. chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp. seasoned salt
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp. sugar
• 1 tbsp. baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) melted butter, plus more for serving
• Maple syrup, for serving

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got all the ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to turn simple components into a mouthwatering dish of Chicken and Waffles. Follow these steps to create crispy, juicy chicken paired with fluffy waffles, elevating your cooking game to new heights.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning your chicken pieces with a delightful mix of salt, pepper, and a hint of paprika. Feel free to add any additional spices you love! This is where the flavor journey begins, so don’t skimp on ensuring each piece is coated perfectly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing those bold flavors to infuse every bite.

Step 2: Whisk the Waffle Batter

In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. These dry ingredients set the foundation for your waffles. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter until smooth. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing until just combined. The batter should remain slightly lumpy for the fluffiest waffles.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, pour enough oil to submerge the chicken halfway. Heat it over medium-high heat until it shimmers—this means it’s ready! Carefully add your marinated chicken to the skillet, listening for that satisfying sizzle. Fry in batches to prevent overcrowding, and cook until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes per side.

Step 4: Cook the Waffles

While your chicken is frying, preheat your waffle maker. Once hot, ladle the batter into the center, spreading it out slightly. Close the lid and let the waffles cook until they’re golden and crispy. Depending on your waffle maker, this may take 3-5 minutes, so keep an eye on them for perfect results.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

It’s time to savor your creation! Layer a fluffy waffle on a plate, then place a crispy piece of fried chicken on top. Drizzle with syrup and feel free to add butter for that extra indulgent touch. The harmony of sweet and savory here is unmatched—this is what Chicken and Waffles dreams are made of!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your dish immediately while hot and crispy. Gather friends or family around the table, relish in the delightful aromas, and watch as they dive into this wonderfully comforting meal. Enjoying a plate of Chicken and Waffles is not just about eating; it’s an experience!

Detailed Directions and Instructions with details

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

To start, ensure your chicken pieces are bone-in and skin-on for optimal flavor and texture. Generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika to bring out the natural taste of the chicken. Allowing the chicken to marinate for about 30 minutes deepens the flavors, leading to a more satisfying bite.

Step 2: Whisk the Waffle Batter

In a medium-sized bowl, mix flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt thoroughly. This step is crucial to ensuring your waffles rise and turn out light and fluffy. In another bowl, blend eggs, milk, and melted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually fold this mixture into your dry ingredients, making sure not to over-mix. Lumps are your friends in waffle batter!

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Add oil to a heavy skillet or frying pan and heat it on medium-high. A well-heated oil will help to create that crispy exterior everyone loves. Once shimmering, carefully add the marinated chicken to the oil. Don’t rush this step; patience ensures a perfect fry. Aim for a juicy inside and a crunch that’s music to your ears.

Step 4: Cook the Waffles

A well-preheated waffle maker is key to achieving those crisp edges! As the waffle maker heats, keep an eye on your frying chicken. Once ready, scoop enough batter for one waffle into the center of the hot waffle iron, close the lid, and let the magic happen. The golden color will signal when they’re ready to be devoured.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

After frying, place your crispy chicken atop a waffle to create a beautiful stack. The sweetness of the syrup complements the savory chicken perfectly. A dollop of butter melting atop the chicken and waffle will make every bite feel indulgent and satisfying.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once plated, this meal begs to be shared with others. Invite your friends or family to the table, and enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors as you dig in. Remember, Chicken and Waffles is not just cuisine; it’s an invitation to a joyous celebration.

Notes

Timing is key

Ensure that your chicken has enough time to marinate for maximum flavor infusion. The wait is worth it!

Medium-high heat is ideal

Having the correct temperature for frying chicken makes all the difference, ensuring outer crispness without overcooking the inside.

Serving Suggestions

Feel free to add sides like fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even some spicy hot sauce on the side for an inspiring twist that perfectly complements your Chicken and Waffles.

Pairing Drinks with Chicken and Waffles

What could enhance your delicious Chicken and Waffles experience? Consider pairing it with a refreshing iced tea, mimosa, or even a strong cup of coffee. The options are endless, and the right beverage will round out your meal beautifully.

Exploring Variations of Chicken and Waffles

Explore different styles by experimenting with spices in the chicken breading, using flavored waffle mixes, or topping with unique additions. Try cinnamon flavor in your batter or even a spicy twist on the chicken. Your innovation can take Chicken and Waffles far beyond the traditional recipe.

Celebrating with Chicken and Waffles

Gather around on special occasions with this fantastic dish to celebrate with family and friends. It serves not just as a meal but as a centerpiece for joyous moments together, from Sunday brunches to holiday festivities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common error to steer clear of is skipping the marinating step, which can result in bland chicken. Another pitfall is overcrowding the frying pan, which can cause the chicken to steam rather than get that dreamy crispy exterior. Lastly, always make sure to have a hot waffle maker before pouring in the batter for perfect waffles each time.

check this interesting blog for more ideas : homemade chicken and Waffles.

Print

FAQs :