Here’s a classic Chicken and Waffles recipe—crispy fried chicken paired with fluffy waffles for the ultimate sweet-and-savory brunch:
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
For the fried chicken:
- 2–3 boneless or bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the waffles:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional toppings:
- Maple syrup, honey, or hot sauce
- Butter or powdered sugar
Instructions
1. Marinate the chicken:
- Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Pour buttermilk over the chicken and refrigerate at least 1 hour (or overnight for extra tender).
2. Make the waffles:
- Preheat waffle iron.
- In a bowl, mix dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt).
- In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Set aside.
3. Fry the chicken:
- Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
- Dredge chicken in flour mixture, then fry 6–8 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until golden and cooked through. Drain on a wire rack.
4. Cook the waffles:
- Pour batter into preheated waffle iron and cook according to manufacturer instructions until golden brown.
5. Assemble:
- Place a waffle on a plate, top with fried chicken, and drizzle with maple syrup or honey. Add butter if desired.
Tips
- Crispier chicken: Double-dip in flour for extra crunch.
- Make ahead: Waffles can be made ahead and kept warm in a 200°F (90°C) oven.
- Flavor twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the chicken for a slight kick.
I can also give you a baked chicken and waffle version that’s lighter and easier—no frying required, but still crispy and delicious. Do you want that version?
