Chicken and Waffles

The first time I savored Chicken and Waffles, it was a cozy Sunday morning at a charming café filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The combination of crispy fried chicken paired with fluffy, warm waffles and a drizzle of syrup was simply magical. It was one of those moments that made me realize how comforting food can be. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings joy to the table. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast or a delightful brunch, Chicken and Waffles is sure to impress. I remember the laughter and chatter around me, the clinking of forks and knives as everyone dove into their plates, each bite evoking a smile. This dish embodies the spirit of togetherness, making it perfect for gatherings or a special weekend treat.

What You’ll Need for Chicken and Waffles

For the ultimate Chicken and Waffles, the ingredients matter. The rich flavors come together to create a dish that’s both filling and satisfying. Key players like the crispy chicken, fluffy waffles, and a touch of syrup work in harmony to create this classic comfort food.

• 2 cups self rising flour: This forms the base for the waffles, giving them a lovely fluffiness.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the batter.
• 3 large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients in both the chicken and waffle batter.
• 1/2 cup red hot sauce: Introduces a delightful heat to the chicken.
• 1/4 cup water: Helps to adjust the consistency of the batter.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Garlic powder: A classic seasoning that elevates the taste of the chicken.
• 2 1/2 pounds chicken pieces: Bone-in, skin-on for that rich flavor.
• 5 pints peanut oil: For deep frying the chicken to crispy perfection.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Used for coating the chicken before frying.
• 2 tablespoons sugar: Sweetens the waffles just right.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures the waffles rise nicely.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness in the waffles.
• 2 large eggs: Another batch for the waffle batter!
• 1 3/4 cups warm low-fat milk: Moistens the batter and helps in achieving a soft texture.
• 1/4 cup melted butter: Adds richness to the waffles.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A hint of sweetness in the waffle batter.
• Maple syrup, butter, hot sauce: Essential toppings that complete the dish.

Preparation Steps for Chicken and Waffles

Creating Chicken and Waffles is an adventure in flavors and textures! Follow these steps carefully to ensure your meal is a hit. Each part builds upon the last, making the entire process enjoyable and rewarding.

1. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs, water, and red hot sauce together until well combined. This mixture will be your marinade for the chicken. Set it aside to let those flavors meld.

2. In another medium bowl, combine the self rising flour and black pepper. This will serve as the coating for your chicken, ensuring that the exterior is crispy and flavorful.

3. Generously sprinkle the chicken pieces with salt, then lightly dust with garlic powder. This enhances the flavor in every bite.

4. Dip each seasoned piece of chicken into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat them in the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is fully covered for the best crunch when fried.

5. Pour the peanut oil into a deep pot, filling it halfway, and heat over medium until it reaches 350 degrees F. A candy thermometer is great for this task. The hot oil is crucial for achieving that crispy finish.

6. Carefully submerge the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and cooked through. Dark meat will typically take about 13 to 14 minutes, while white meat will need around 8 to 10 minutes.

7. Once cooked, place the fried chicken on paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help keep the chicken crispy.

8. Meanwhile, preheat your waffle iron. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder. This combination is vital for fluffy waffles.

9. In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, warm milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and slightly frothy.

10. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a batter forms. Don’t be alarmed if there are a few lumps; that’s perfectly fine!

11. Pour the batter onto your waffle iron, using an amount that fits your specific iron. Cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp, typically about 5 to 7 minutes.

12. Serve the hot waffles alongside the warm fried chicken, and don’t forget to add some maple syrup, butter, and even more hot sauce on the side for an extra kick!

Tips and Variations

Creating Chicken and Waffles allows for plenty of creativity, and there are many ways to elevate your dish. From swapping ingredients to pairing, here are some tips to consider.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The chicken can retain its flavor when properly stored.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken for up to three months. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
• Pairing: Serve Chicken and Waffles with fresh fruit like berries for a refreshing contrast.
• Spice it Up: Add spices like cayenne pepper to the chicken coating for extra heat.
• Waffle Variations: Experiment with adding chocolate chips or nuts to the waffle batter for a unique twist.

Perfect Pairings for Chicken and Waffles

When serving Chicken and Waffles, the options are endless! Here are some delightful pairings and suggestions to enhance your meal:

• Fresh Fruit: Add a side of seasonal fruit salad to balance the rich flavors.
• Coffee or Tea: Pair this dish with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea for a cozy touch.
• Weekend Brunch: Ideal for serving at brunch gatherings with friends and family.
• Holiday Breakfast: A festive way to start holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them separately. Reheat the chicken in the oven for a crispy texture.

FAQ

Conclusion

Chicken and Waffles is truly a dish that captures the essence of comfort food. The combination of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles is not just satisfying; it’s an experience that brings people together. I encourage you to try making this dish at home and share it with loved ones. It’s perfect for any occasion, and I promise it’ll be a hit!

Chicken and Waffles

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken and Waffles combines crispy fried chicken with fluffy waffles and a drizzle of syrup for a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this easy weeknight recipe will become a favorite for your family.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups self rising flour
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup red hot sauce
• 1/4 cup water
• Salt
• Garlic powder
• 2 1/2 pounds chicken pieces bone in, skin on
• 5 pints peanut oil for deep frying
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 3/4 cups warm lowfat milk use dairy-free milk to make kosher
• 1/4 cup melted butter use margarine to make kosher
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
• Maple syrup
• butter
• hot sauce

Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs, water, and red hot sauce together. Reserve.
2. In another medium bowl, combine the self rising flour and black pepper.
3. Sprinkle the chicken pieces generously with salt, then lightly with garlic powder.
4. Dip the seasoned chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then coat in the seasoned flour.
5. Pour peanut oil into a deep pot up to half full with oil, then heat over medium till hot enough for frying (350 degrees F as measured on a candy thermometer).
6. Submerge the chicken pieces carefully into the hot oil. Let the chicken fry till crispy and cooked through. Dark meat will take 13-14 minutes, white meat 8-10 minutes.
7. Place fried chicken on paper towels to drain off excess oil. Serve.
8. Preheat your waffle iron. In a large mixing bowl, sift together all purpose flour, salt, sugar and baking powder.
9. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the eggs, then beat in the lukewarm milk, butter and vanilla till well combined.
10. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir till a batter forms. A few small lumps are okay.
11. Pour the batter onto your waffle iron in batches. Let the waffles cook till golden brown and crisp.
12. Serve hot waffles with warm fried chicken, warmed maple syrup, and butter on the side.

Notes

• Tip 1: You will also need: 6 quart heavy bottomed pot, mixing bowls, waffle iron, paper towels.
• Tip 2: Optional Kosher Modifications: Substitute almond or soy milk for buttermilk, use a non-hydrogentated butter substitute (like Earth Balance) to replace the butter.

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Meet Tessa Gray

I’m the “Poppy” I bring a touch of brightness and artistry to our kitchen. As our head baker, I specialize in wild-yeast sourdough and delicate pastries that use seasonal fruits and edible flowers. While I love baking, I’m also always helping Chloe and Maya cook our savory dishes. I believe every hearty meal deserves a beautiful, sweet finish!