If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and crispy textures, then this Chicken and Waffles with Crispy Fried Chicken and Maple Syrup Recipe is exactly what you need. This classic comfort food brings together tender, juicy fried chicken with golden, fluffy waffles, all crowned with the irresistible sweetness of maple syrup. Whether for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this delightful recipe promises a mouthwatering experience that feels both indulgent and comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the distinct flavors and textures that make this recipe shine. Together, they create the perfect crunchy fried chicken and light, airy waffles to pair beautifully with maple syrup.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for more juiciness, breasts if preferred, both provide tender meat for that crispy fried chicken.
- Buttermilk: Essential for marinating the chicken, it tenderizes and imparts a subtle tang that enhances flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: The basics that bring out and balance all other tastes.
- Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper: A blend of spices that packs a punch of flavor and a bit of heat in the crispy chicken coating.
- All-purpose flour and cornstarch: Used in combination to create a light, crispy crust on the fried chicken.
- Baking powder: Adds a lightness to both the coating and waffle batter.
- Vegetable oil: The perfect frying medium for golden, crisp chicken.
- Flour, sugar, baking soda: Key waffle ingredients contributing to texture and a touch of sweetness.
- Eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract: Vital wet ingredients that enrich the waffle batter with flavor and tenderness.
- Maple syrup and butter: The classic finishing touches that bring this dish together with sweet and creamy notes.
- Hot sauce (optional): For those who love a kick alongside sweetness.
How to Make Chicken and Waffles with Crispy Fried Chicken and Maple Syrup Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by making the marinade using buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. This flavorful bath tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with bold spices. Allow the chicken to soak in this mixture for at least an hour, though overnight will give you the best flavor and juiciness.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Coating
In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. This blend is the secret behind that irresistibly crispy fried chicken crust. The cornstarch lightens the coating while the baking powder helps create that perfect crunch.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture. Press the coating firmly into the chicken so it sticks well and forms an even crust. Let the breaded chicken rest for about five minutes, as this helps the crust set for frying without falling apart.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet to around 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side until each piece is a gorgeous golden brown and deeply crispy. Drain the fried chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil, keeping it crunchy and ready for stacking.
Step 5: Make the Waffles
While the chicken fries, preheat your waffle iron. In a bowl, whisk together the dry waffle ingredients — flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gently mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined; do not overmix to keep your waffles light and fluffy.
Step 6: Cook the Waffles
Pour the batter into your preheated waffle iron and cook according to your manufacturer’s instructions. Cook just until golden brown and crisp on the outside but tender inside. The waffles serve as the fluffy, buttery base for your fried chicken.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Place a freshly made waffle on each plate. Top generously with your crispy fried chicken pieces. Drizzle with warm maple syrup, then add a pat of butter and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of hot sauce. This final touch balances sweet and heat in the perfect harmony.
How to Serve Chicken and Waffles with Crispy Fried Chicken and Maple Syrup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped chives or thyme can add a pop of color and subtle earthiness. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can elevate the sweetness if you prefer dessert vibes. Crispy bacon crumbles also make a fun, salty contrast.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside creamy coleslaw or a bright, tangy cucumber salad to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or a simple garden salad would provide fantastic balance without overwhelming flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking mini chicken pieces on bite-sized waffles for an appetizer party platter. Or serve the chicken and waffles sandwiches-style by sandwiching the fried chicken between two waffle squares held together with a skewer. Drizzle maple syrup artistically on the plate for a restaurant-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover fried chicken and waffles keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store them separately if you want to prevent the waffles from becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze both components individually. Wrap the fried chicken tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and store waffles in a freezer bag. They’ll keep good quality for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool completely before freezing.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain its crispiness. For waffles, toast them or warm briefly in the oven. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work just fine, though thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving during frying. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook to keep them tender.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure your baking powder and cornstarch are gluten-free. The recipe will still turn out deliciously crispy and flavorful.
Can I prepare the chicken marinade the night before?
Definitely! Marinating the chicken overnight not only saves time but also gives the meat extra time to soak up the spices and buttermilk, making it even more tender and flavorful.
What type of maple syrup is best to use?
Pure maple syrup is ideal because it offers the richest, most natural flavor to complement the crispy chicken and waffles. Avoid imitation syrups that can taste overly sweet or artificial.
How can I make the waffles extra crispy?
Make sure your waffle iron is well preheated, and avoid over-mixing the batter. Cooking them until just golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges will give you the best texture.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Chicken and Waffles with Crispy Fried Chicken and Maple Syrup Recipe will not only satisfy your comfort food cravings but also impress your family or friends with an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that’s both joyful to make and delightful to eat — the kind of meal you’ll want to come back to again and again.
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Chicken and Waffles with Crispy Fried Chicken and Maple Syrup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A classic Southern comfort food recipe combining crispy, seasoned fried chicken thighs with fluffy, golden waffles. Marinated in buttermilk and spices for tender, flavorful chicken, paired perfectly with sweet maple syrup and optional hot sauce for a delightful balance of savory and sweet.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Waffles:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Butter
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper thoroughly. Add the chicken thighs and ensure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for best flavor and tenderness.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create an even coating mixture.
- Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure it adheres evenly. Let the coated chicken rest for 5 minutes to help the crust set properly.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. Use a thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Waffles: Preheat the waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gently combine wet ingredients with dry, mixing until just incorporated to avoid overmixing.
- Cook the Waffles: Pour batter onto the preheated waffle iron, spreading evenly. Close and cook according to manufacturer’s instructions until waffles are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Assemble and Serve: Place a freshly cooked waffle on each plate, top with a piece of crispy fried chicken, and drizzle generously with warm maple syrup. Add a pat of butter on top and optional hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances flavor and tenderness significantly.
- Keep oil temperature steady to ensure even frying and prevent soggy crust.
- Do not overmix waffle batter to keep waffles light and fluffy.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Maple syrup can be substituted with honey or hot honey for a twist.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend in both chicken and waffle recipes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
