Southern Chicken Waffles: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

Southern Chicken Waffles is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the savory and sweet, creating a culinary experience that is hard to resist. Originating from the soul food traditions of the Southern United States, this dish has a rich history that reflects the cultural melting pot of flavors and techniques. The combination of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles drizzled with maple syrup is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food that brings people together around the table.

What I love most about Southern Chicken Waffles is the incredible contrast in textures and flavors. The crunchy exterior of the chicken pairs beautifully with the soft, warm waffles, while the syrup adds a touch of sweetness that elevates the entire dish. It’s no wonder that this recipe has become a favorite for brunch gatherings and family dinners alike. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying dinner, Southern Chicken Waffles is sure to please everyone at the table!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Vegetable oil for frying
• For the Waffles:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For Serving:
• Maple syrup
• Butter (optional)
• Fresh fruit (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Marinate the Chicken**: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor and tenderness. 2. **Prepare the Coating**: In another bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This will be your seasoned flour for coating the chicken. 3. **Heat the Oil**: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of the flour mixture into it; if it sizzles, it’s ready. 4. **Coat the Chicken**: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing down to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess flour and set the coated chicken aside on a plate. 5. **Fry the Chicken**: Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). You may need to do this in batches. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Preparing the Waffles

6. **Preheat the Waffle Iron**: While the chicken is frying, preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 7. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. 8. **Combine the Wet Ingredients**: In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add the buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. 9. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. 10. **Cook the Waffles**: Lightly grease the waffle iron with cooking spray or a little melted butter. Pour the recommended amount of batter onto the preheated waffle iron (usually about 1/2 to 3/4 cup, depending on your waffle iron). Close the lid and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crisp. 11. **Keep Warm**: If you’re making multiple waffles, you can keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish cooking the rest.

Assembling the Dish

12. **Plate the Waffles**: Once the waffles are cooked, place one or two on a plate, depending on your appetite

Conclusion:

In summary, this Southern Chicken Waffles recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors. The crispy, golden-brown chicken paired with fluffy, warm waffles creates a mouthwatering experience that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, a cozy dinner, or a special occasion, this dish is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. For serving suggestions, consider drizzling your chicken and waffles with a generous amount of maple syrup or honey for that perfect touch of sweetness. You can also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some spicy hot sauce for a kick or even a side of fresh fruit to balance the richness of the dish. I encourage you to give this Southern Chicken Waffles recipe a try and experience the joy it brings to your table. Don’t forget to share your experience with me! I’d love to hear how it turned out for you and any variations you might have tried. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make some delicious memories together with this incredible dish! Print