There’s something magical about the blend of sweet and savory, and that’s exactly what you get with Chicken and Waffles Sliders. I remember the first time I tried this combination at a brunch party; the crispy fried chicken nestled between warm, fluffy waffles was an unexpected delight. The flavors danced on my taste buds, making it impossible to have just one. Ever since that day, this dish has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite sauces or toppings, making it a versatile dish that always impresses. Whether you’re hosting friends for brunch or just treating yourself to something special, Chicken and Waffles Sliders never disappoints.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Oven, Food Processor, Skillet, Frying Pan

What Sets This Chicken and Waffles Sliders Apart

Indulgent Delight

The combination of crispy fried chicken and soft, sweet waffles creates a flavor profile that is hard to resist. I love how the textures play off each other—the crunch of the chicken contrasts beautifully with the fluffiness of the waffles. Each bite is a little piece of heaven that feels like a warm hug.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Chicken and Waffles Sliders are incredibly versatile. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch, a festive holiday gathering, or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish fits the bill. You can serve them as appetizers or make a full meal out of them. They also make for great party food!

Customization Galore

What I adore about this recipe is its adaptability. You can incorporate your favorite spices into the chicken marinade or drizzle maple syrup, honey, or even sriracha for a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a great way to tailor the dish to your taste!

Kid-Friendly Fun

Kids love this dish! The mini sliders are the perfect size for little hands, and the combination of flavors is often a hit with the younger crowd. It’s a fun way to introduce them to new tastes while still keeping it familiar.

Make-Ahead Magic

One of the best things about Chicken and Waffles Sliders is that you can prepare a lot of it ahead of time. The waffles can be made in batches and frozen, and the chicken can be marinated the night before. This makes it easier to whip up when guests arrive or when you’re craving something special without the stress of last-minute cooking.

What’s In This Chicken and Waffles Sliders

The ingredients for Chicken and Waffles Sliders are simple yet effective, working together to create a harmonious dish. At the heart of this recipe are the crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles, which are enhanced by a mix of spices and sauces. This combination not only satisfies hunger but also tantalizes your taste buds.

3 cups waffle mix, according to the package directions
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups buttermilk
½ cup Cholula® Original Hot Sauce
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons garlic powder
Canola oil for frying
12 eggs, optional

The Process for Making Chicken and Waffles Sliders

Preparing Chicken and Waffles Sliders might seem daunting, but it’s a straightforward process that’s surprisingly fun! Follow along with these steps to ensure a delicious result. Let’s jump right in!

Start by filleting the chicken breasts in half. Next, cut them into 2-inch squares and pound them out to about ¼ inch thick pieces. This helps them cook evenly and remain tender. Place these pieces in a large freezer bag.
In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and Cholula Original hot sauce, creating a spicy marinade. Pour this mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
To make the waffles, preheat your waffle maker according to its instructions. Prepare the waffle mix according to the package directions. Once ready, pour a cup of batter into the center of the iron and close the lid. Cook for about 3 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer the waffles to a cooling rack and repeat until you have about 24 mini waffles. They can be made ahead and frozen for convenience.
When you’re ready to fry the chicken, take it out of the fridge and let it rest in the bag at room temperature for 30 minutes. Prepare a station by pouring the reserved buttermilk mixture into a shallow bowl. In another bowl, mix the flour, kosher salt, and garlic powder until well combined.
Pour half of the flour mixture into a gallon freezer bag. Take 4 to 5 pieces of the marinated chicken, coat them in the buttermilk mixture, shaking off any excess. Transfer them to the bag with the flour and shake until well coated. Repeat until all pieces are coated, placing them on a wire rack to rest for 15 minutes.
In a heavy-bottomed cast iron pan, add about ¾ inch of Canola oil and heat to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully add 3 to 4 pieces of the coated chicken to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 180 degrees Fahrenheit.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked chicken onto a sheet pan lined with paper towels. Lightly sprinkle with kosher salt. Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken, skimming the oil as needed to maintain temperature.
To keep the chicken warm, place it in a preheated oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
Now, it’s time to assemble! Stack the crispy chicken pieces between two waffles. Drizzle with your favorite sauces or serve with dipping sauces on the side. For an extra touch, you can top each slider with a fried egg if desired!

Things Worth Knowing

Tip on Resting: Allowing the chicken to rest after frying helps maintain its juiciness. Don’t skip this step!
Oil Temperature: Maintaining the temperature of the oil is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Waffle Variations: Feel free to experiment with flavored waffle mixes, like blueberry or chocolate chip, for unique twists.
Batch Cooking: Make extra waffles and freeze them for quick meals. They reheat beautifully in a toaster.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

If you’re looking to mix things up or cater to different tastes, here are a few ideas to adapt your Chicken and Waffles Sliders!

Storage: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze both the chicken and waffles separately. Thaw before reheating for best results.
Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Spice Level: Adjust the spiciness of the chicken by varying the amount of hot sauce in the marinade.
Serving Style: Try serving the sliders as part of a brunch platter, alongside other favorites like fruit and pastries.

Serving This Chicken and Waffles Sliders

Serving Chicken and Waffles Sliders is an art in itself! Here’s how to elevate your dining experience:

Brunch Delight: Perfect for brunch, pair the sliders with mimosas or fresh-squeezed juice for a delightful meal.
Party Platter: Create a fun serving platter with a variety of sauces, like maple syrup, honey, or spicy aioli, for guests to choose from.
Casual Gatherings: These sliders work wonderfully for casual gatherings, making them a great option for game day or family parties.
Seasonal Sides: In the fall, consider serving with roasted sweet potatoes; in the summer, fresh corn salad works beautifully.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can make the waffles ahead of time and freeze them. Just reheat them in a toaster or a microwave before serving. This makes Chicken and Waffles Sliders an excellent option for busy mornings or gatherings.

There are many sauces you can pair with Chicken and Waffles Sliders. Maple syrup is a classic choice, but you can also try honey, spicy aioli, or even a tangy barbecue sauce. Each sauce adds a unique flavor that complements the dish well!

Yes! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for their tenderness, you can use chicken thighs or even chicken tenders. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of chicken you use.

Certainly! You can substitute the chicken with crispy fried tofu or even a veggie patty for a delicious vegetarian version of Chicken and Waffles Sliders. Use the same waffle recipe to maintain that delightful balance.

Conclusion

The magic of Chicken and Waffles Sliders lies in their perfect balance of flavors and textures. This dish brings together the best of both worlds, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience. I encourage you to try making these sliders for your next gathering, or simply as a treat for yourself. They are sure to impress and become a new favorite in your home!