Chicken and Waffles Recipe. Just saying it out loud feels like the ultimate comfort food dream, right? The combination of crispy, golden fried chicken with soft, fluffy waffles, all drizzled with a sweet-and-spicy honey butter sauce—it’s pure magic. There’s something so indulgent and satisfying about this dish. It’s the kind of meal you make when you want to treat yourself or impress someone special with your cooking skills.
What makes this dish stand out is the balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is perfectly seasoned and fried to crispy perfection, while the waffles are buttery, light, and slightly sweet. The spicy honey butter sauce brings everything together with just the right amount of heat and sweetness. This recipe is perfect for brunch, dinner, or even a fun weekend lunch. It’s also the kind of dish that can easily turn an ordinary day into something memorable.
The first time I made this dish, I couldn’t believe how quickly it disappeared from the table. The combination of the crunchy chicken and the soft waffles was a hit, but the real game-changer was the spicy honey butter sauce. It adds this delicious kick that elevates the whole experience. From that moment on, it became a regular in our house, especially for special occasions or when we needed something comforting and indulgent. Now, I’m excited to share this amazing recipe with you so you can experience the same joy and deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Waffles Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Chicken and Waffles with Spicy Honey Butter Sauce recipe. From the crispy, juicy chicken to the buttery waffles and that irresistible sweet-and-spicy sauce, every bite is pure perfection. Here’s why you need to make this recipe:
- It’s a Flavor Explosion: The seasoning blend for the chicken is spot-on, with garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. And when you pair that with the spicy honey butter sauce? You’re in for a flavor-packed experience.
- Incredible Texture Contrast: The crispy fried chicken and the soft, fluffy waffles create an unbeatable texture combination. It’s comfort food at its finest.
- Customizable Spice Level: You control the heat. Want it mild? Skip the cayenne. Craving something fiery? Amp up the hot sauce and cayenne pepper.
- Perfect for Any Meal: This dish works beautifully for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. It’s versatile enough to suit any occasion.
- Easy to Make: Despite sounding fancy, this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. The steps are easy to follow, and the results are impressive.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving a hungry family or hosting a casual brunch with friends, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Sometimes, you just need something comforting and satisfying. This dish checks all the boxes.
You’ll love how simple the steps are and how incredible the end result tastes. And once you make this recipe, you’ll definitely be adding it to your list of favorites.
Health Benefits
Now, let’s be real. Chicken and waffles aren’t exactly a health food. However, there are ways to make this dish a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. Let’s break down some of the nutritional benefits of the ingredients and how you can tweak the recipe to suit your dietary needs.
- Protein-Packed Chicken: Chicken thighs or breasts are rich sources of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, energy, and overall body function. Opting for boneless, skinless chicken also helps reduce fat content while still delivering all the protein goodness.
- Bone Health Support: The milk and butter used in the waffle batter provide calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
- Rich in Essential Vitamins and Minerals: The spices used in the chicken marinade (garlic powder, paprika, cayenne) are not only flavor enhancers but also contain beneficial compounds. Garlic powder is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while paprika offers antioxidants like vitamin A.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can make this dish healthier by using whole wheat flour for the waffles or opting for an air-fried or baked chicken option instead of deep-frying. You can also use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of butter if you’re watching your calorie intake.
- Balanced Energy: The combination of protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the waffles provides a balanced source of energy, perfect for keeping you satisfied and energized.
- Honey’s Natural Benefits: Honey is not only delicious but also offers natural antioxidants and antibacterial properties. It’s a better alternative to refined sugars, especially when used in moderation.
Making this recipe with high-quality, wholesome ingredients can elevate the nutritional value while still keeping it indulgent and satisfying. And, of course, you can always tailor it to fit your personal health goals.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
One of the best things about this Chicken and Waffles recipe is that it’s surprisingly quick and straightforward to prepare. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time, servings, and nutritional information to help you plan your meal:
Preparation Time:
- Chicken Marination: 30 minutes (minimum) to overnight (preferred)
- Cooking the Chicken: 15 minutes
- Making the Waffles: 20 minutes
- Preparing the Spicy Honey Butter Sauce: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (if marinating for only 30 minutes) or up to 8 hours (if marinating overnight)
Servings:
This recipe serves 4 people generously. Each person gets a serving of fried chicken and waffles with plenty of spicy honey butter sauce to drizzle over the top.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: Approximately 850 calories
- Protein: 38 grams
- Carbohydrates: 86 grams
- Fat: 38 grams
- Sugar: 21 grams
- Sodium: 1250 mg
- Cholesterol: 195 mg
Please note that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used.
Ingredients List
Let’s get straight to the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious, comforting meal. Everything here is pretty straightforward, and you probably have most of it in your pantry already.
For the Fried Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (choose thighs for juicier, more flavorful chicken)
- 1 cup buttermilk (tenderizes the chicken and adds a subtle tang)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to enhance overall flavor)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (for a touch of heat and depth)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for savory richness)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (for warmth and beautiful color)
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, but adds a fantastic spicy kick)
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (for a crispy coating)
- 0.5 cups cornstarch (helps achieve that ultra-crispy texture)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola work best)
For the Waffles:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (the base for light, fluffy waffles)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (just enough to lightly sweeten the waffles)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (makes the waffles rise and stay airy)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (balances the sweetness)
- 2 large eggs (binds the batter and adds richness)
- 1 3/4 cups milk (helps create a smooth batter)
- 1/3 cup melted butter (for moisture and flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds a subtle, lovely aroma)
For the Spicy Honey Butter Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey (or maple syrup for a different flavor profile)
- 4 tablespoons melted butter (for that silky, rich texture)
- 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to your preferred spice level)
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step cooking process. This is where all the magic happens. Get your apron on, and let’s make some unforgettable Chicken and Waffles.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! This Chicken and Waffles Recipe is broken down into three main parts: making the fried chicken, cooking the waffles, and preparing the spicy honey butter sauce. Each step is designed to be straightforward, so even if you’re new to making fried chicken or waffles from scratch, you’ll do just fine. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Prepare the Fried Chicken
The key to making irresistible fried chicken is proper marination and a well-seasoned coating. Let’s do this right.
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until everything is well mixed.
- Add the chicken thighs or breasts to the bowl, ensuring each piece is fully coated with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate the chicken overnight. This extra time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.
Prepare the Coating:
- In a separate large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. The combination of flour and cornstarch is what creates that super-crispy crust we all love.
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to the flour mixture if you want to boost the seasoning even more.
Coat the Chicken:
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator.
- Working one piece at a time, take each piece of chicken from the buttermilk marinade and let the excess drip off.
- Dredge the chicken in the flour-cornstarch mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered.
- Place the coated chicken on a plate or wire rack and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the coating to adhere to the chicken properly, making for a crispier crust when fried.
Fry the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a large skillet or deep frying pan over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to fully submerge at least half of the chicken pieces (about 1 to 1.5 inches deep).
- To check if the oil is hot enough, sprinkle a bit of flour into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go.
- Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can drop the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
- Fry the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Tips:
- Keep the chicken warm in a low oven (about 200°F) if you’re making multiple batches.
- If you want extra crispy chicken, double-dip by repeating the coating process before frying.
Step 2: Make the Waffles
Now that the chicken is done, it’s time to make those beautiful, fluffy waffles.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Whisk everything together until the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate medium-sized bowl, beat the eggs lightly.
- Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the eggs. Whisk until well combined.
Combine and Cook:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy—overmixing can result in tough waffles.
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Lightly grease the waffle iron with non-stick spray or melted butter.
- Pour the batter into the waffle iron (about 1/2 cup per waffle, but this may vary based on your waffle iron size).
- Cook until golden brown and crisp. This usually takes about 4–5 minutes, but keep an eye on them.
- Transfer the cooked waffles to a plate and keep them warm while you finish the rest of the batch.
Tips:
- For extra crispy waffles, place them on a wire rack instead of stacking them directly on a plate.
- Want to make the waffles even more flavorful? Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
Step 3: Make the Spicy Honey Butter Sauce
This sauce is pure gold. Sweet, buttery, and with just the right amount of heat, it ties everything together perfectly.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, combine honey, melted butter, hot sauce, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Whisk until smooth and well combined. Adjust the amount of hot sauce and cayenne to your preferred spice level.
Tips:
- For a thicker sauce, let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
- If you prefer maple syrup over honey, feel free to make that swap. It’ll taste just as amazing.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Now comes the fun part—putting it all together and indulging in this epic meal.
- Place a waffle on each serving plate.
- Top the waffle with a piece (or two) of crispy fried chicken.
- Generously drizzle the spicy honey butter sauce over the chicken and waffles.
- Serve immediately while everything is hot and fresh.
Serving Tips:
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with additional honey or hot sauce on the side for extra drizzling.
- Pair with fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance out the richness.
That’s it! You’ve just made one of the most mouthwatering comfort food dishes around. But wait, there’s more to explore. Let’s dive into how you can serve this dish in various delicious ways.
How to Serve
There’s really no wrong way to serve Chicken and Waffles Recipe, but there are definitely some ways to enhance the overall experience. Here are some serving ideas to consider:
- Brunch Perfection: Serve this dish with fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or watermelon. The juicy sweetness of the fruit pairs beautifully with the savory chicken and sweet-spicy sauce.
- Family-Style Platter: If you’re serving a group, place a big plate of crispy fried chicken alongside a stack of warm waffles. Let everyone build their own plates and customize their sauce drizzle.
- Southern-Style Feast: Add sides like creamy mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or macaroni and cheese for a full-on comfort food spread.
- Breakfast-for-Dinner: This dish makes a fantastic dinner option. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a simple arugula salad to lighten things up.
- Kid-Friendly Option: If you’re serving kids, you can skip the spicy sauce and simply drizzle the waffles and chicken with honey or maple syrup.
- Elevated Presentation: For a fancier touch, dust the plate with powdered sugar before serving or add a small pat of butter on top of the waffles.
Ready to take this dish to the next level? Next up, let’s talk about the best drink pairings and what sides complement this delicious combo.
Pairing Suggestions
Chicken and Waffles is already a flavor-packed experience, but pairing it with the right drinks and sides can truly elevate the entire meal. Whether you’re going for a classic Southern-style feast or a sophisticated brunch, here are some fantastic pairing suggestions to complement your crispy fried chicken, fluffy waffles, and spicy honey butter sauce.
Beverage Pairings
Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: The bright, citrusy freshness of orange juice offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and waffles. It’s a classic breakfast option that always works.
Iced Tea or Sweet Tea: If you’re going for a Southern vibe, a tall glass of sweet tea is the way to go. For a more sophisticated twist, try serving a refreshing iced green tea with a hint of mint.
Cold Brew Coffee: The deep, bold flavors of cold brew coffee pair beautifully with the sweetness of the waffles and the spiciness of the sauce. Plus, the chilled temperature makes it a perfect pairing for a hot dish.
Smoothies: Looking for something fruity and refreshing? A strawberry-banana or mixed berry smoothie adds a delightful contrast of flavors.
Sparkling Water with Lemon or Lime: If you want to keep it simple and light, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime provides a palate-cleansing effect that enhances every bite.
Side Dish Pairings
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of juicy, colorful fruits like watermelon, pineapple, grapes, and berries is a wonderful way to balance the rich flavors of the chicken and waffles.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, tangy crunch of coleslaw adds a refreshing element to the meal. Plus, the acidity helps cut through the richness of the fried chicken.
- Cheesy Grits: For an ultra-Southern experience, serve your chicken and waffles with creamy, buttery grits on the side.
- Roasted Vegetables: If you want to lighten things up, roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts work well as a nutritious side.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Because sometimes you just need to go all-out with comfort food. The gooey, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese complements the crispy chicken perfectly.
- Arugula Salad: A simple, peppery arugula salad dressed with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper provides a fresh and vibrant contrast.
The options are endless, and it’s all about balancing those rich, indulgent flavors with something fresh, tangy, or slightly sweet. Now, let’s get into how to store leftovers, reheat them, and even freeze this dish for later enjoyment.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
This Chicken and Waffles recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers (or want to prep ahead), it’s totally possible to store, freeze, and reheat the components successfully. Here’s how:
Storing Leftovers
Chicken: Allow the fried chicken to cool completely before storing it. Place the chicken in an airtight container lined with paper towels to help absorb excess moisture. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Waffles: Let the waffles cool completely before placing them in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Spicy Honey Butter Sauce: Store the sauce in a small airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing
Chicken: If you want to freeze the fried chicken, first let it cool completely. Then, place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Transfer the frozen chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container. The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Waffles: Freeze cooked waffles by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer until fully frozen. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Spicy Honey Butter Sauce: While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container if you wish. Just give it a good stir when reheating.
Reheating
Chicken: For the best results, reheat the fried chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until crispy and heated through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Waffles: Reheat waffles in a toaster, toaster oven, or oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–8 minutes until warmed and crisp.
Spicy Honey Butter Sauce: Reheat the sauce gently in the microwave or over low heat on the stovetop. Stir well before serving.
Now that you know how to store, freeze, and reheat everything, let’s make sure you avoid common pitfalls when preparing this delicious dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this Chicken and Waffles recipe is easy to follow, a few mistakes can get in the way of achieving that perfect crispy, juicy, and flavorful dish. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Skipping the Marination Process: Don’t rush the marination. Allowing the chicken to soak in the buttermilk mixture for at least 30 minutes (preferably overnight) makes a huge difference in tenderness and flavor.
- Overcrowding the Pan: When frying the chicken, make sure you don’t overcrowd the skillet. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding drops the oil temperature, leading to soggy, unevenly cooked chicken.
- Using Low-Quality Oil: Using the wrong oil for frying can ruin the texture and taste. Vegetable oil or canola oil works best because of their high smoke points and neutral flavors.
- Overmixing the Waffle Batter: Stirring the waffle batter too much will result in dense, tough waffles. Mix until just combined for light and airy waffles.
- Reheating Chicken the Wrong Way: Microwaving leftover chicken can turn it into a soggy mess. Always use the oven for reheating to maintain that crispy exterior.
- Using Cold Ingredients for Waffles: Ensure your eggs, milk, and butter are at room temperature when making the waffle batter. This helps the ingredients mix more smoothly and results in fluffier waffles.
- Serving Everything Cold: Make sure your waffles and chicken are hot when serving. If you’re cooking in batches, keep them warm in the oven until ready to assemble.
- Neglecting to Season the Flour Mixture: Adding a bit of salt and pepper to the flour mixture ensures your coating is flavorful and not bland.
- Using the Wrong Chicken Cut: While chicken breasts work fine, chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Consider using them for the best results.
Let’s make sure you have everything you need for success. Up next are some pro tips to make this dish truly shine.
Pro Tips
Want to make your Chicken and Waffles Recipe absolutely unforgettable? These pro tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results every time. From getting the perfect crispy chicken to nailing those fluffy waffles, here’s how to elevate your cooking game:
For the Fried Chicken
Use a Thermometer for Oil Temperature: To achieve the ideal crispy texture, keep your frying oil at around 350°F (175°C). Using a thermometer ensures the oil stays hot enough for perfect frying.
Double-Coat the Chicken for Extra Crunch: If you’re after that ultimate crispy chicken, try double-dipping. After the first coating of flour and cornstarch, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk mixture and coat it with flour once more before frying. This adds an extra-thick, crunchy layer.
Drain the Chicken Properly: When removing the fried chicken from the oil, place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet instead of paper towels. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, keeping it crispy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Frying Pan: Fry the chicken in batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping. Crowding the pan results in greasy, unevenly cooked chicken.
Keep Chicken Warm Between Batches: If you’re making several pieces, keep the fried chicken warm in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C) until ready to serve. This also helps maintain that lovely crispiness.
For the Waffles
Let the Batter Rest: After mixing your waffle batter, let it rest for about 5–10 minutes before cooking. This allows the flour to hydrate properly and results in fluffier waffles.
Preheat the Waffle Iron Well: Make sure your waffle iron is fully preheated before pouring the batter. This helps achieve even cooking and prevents the waffles from sticking.
Don’t Overfill the Waffle Iron: Pour just enough batter to cover the surface without overflowing. Overfilling can cause uneven cooking and a messy cleanup.
Make Extra for Freezing: Waffles freeze beautifully! Make a double batch and freeze the extras for a quick breakfast option. Just pop them in the toaster when you’re ready to enjoy.
Add Some Flavor to the Batter: For a flavor boost, consider adding a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs like chives to the batter.
For the Spicy Honey Butter Sauce
Adjust the Heat Level: The amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper you add is completely up to you. Taste the sauce as you mix, and add more spice if desired.
Use Real Butter: For the creamiest, richest sauce, always use real butter. It makes a huge difference in texture and flavor.
Whisk Thoroughly: Make sure your butter is completely melted and whisked well with the honey and hot sauce. This ensures a smooth, glossy sauce that coats the chicken and waffles perfectly.
Store Leftover Sauce: If you have any leftover sauce, store it in the fridge and use it as a delicious glaze for other dishes like roasted vegetables or grilled shrimp.
Now that you have all the tips and tricks to master this recipe, let’s address some of the most common questions people have about making Chicken and Waffles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, absolutely! While chicken thighs are preferred for their juicy texture and rich flavor, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work just as well. If using chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness before marinating to ensure even cooking.
Can I Make This Chicken and Waffles Recipe Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and waffles in advance. To save time, marinate the chicken overnight and store it in the fridge until ready to cook. The waffles can also be made ahead and kept warm in the oven or reheated in a toaster.
What If I Don’t Have Buttermilk?
No worries! You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it curdles slightly, then use as directed.
Can I Air-Fry or Bake the Chicken Instead of Frying?
Yes, for a healthier version of this Chicken and Waffles Recipe, you can use an air fryer or oven. To air-fry, lightly spray the coated chicken with oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. For baking, place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes.
How Do I Keep the Chicken Crispy After Frying?
The best way to keep the chicken crispy is to place it on a wire rack over a baking sheet instead of paper towels. This allows air circulation, preventing sogginess.
Can I Make the Waffles Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. The texture might be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
To increase the heat, add extra cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade and more hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the honey butter sauce. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes over the assembled dish for an extra kick.
What Type of Hot Sauce Works Best for the Sauce?
Any hot sauce you enjoy will work well, but classic options like Frank’s RedHot or Louisiana-style hot sauce provide a nice balance of heat and flavor.
Can I Make the Waffles Without a Waffle Iron?
Unfortunately, making waffles without a waffle iron is tricky. However, if you don’t have one, you can turn the batter into pancakes! They won’t have the same texture, but they’ll still taste delicious.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Waffles can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat the chicken in the oven for the best results, and pop the waffles in the toaster.
You’re all set to make the best Chicken and Waffles of your life! Ready for the final step? Let’s wrap this up and get cooking.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Congratulations! You’ve made it to the end of this epic Chicken and Waffles recipe, and you’re now fully equipped to create an unforgettable meal that’s packed with flavor, texture, and pure comfort. Whether you’re making this dish for a special brunch, a fun dinner, or just because you’re craving something indulgent, you’re in for a real treat.
This recipe has it all: juicy, crispy fried chicken; fluffy, buttery waffles; and a sweet-and-spicy honey butter sauce that ties everything together perfectly. You’ve learned all the tips, tricks, and potential mistakes to avoid, so you’re set up for success.
Now, it’s your turn. Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And if you make this recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience.
Leave a comment below to share how your Chicken and Waffles turned out. Did you stick to the recipe, or did you put your own twist on it? And don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations.
Happy cooking, and enjoy every single bite of this incredible dish!
PrintChicken and Waffles Recipe – Crispy & Fluffy Perfection
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Chicken and Waffles recipe delivers perfectly crispy chicken, fluffy waffles, and a sweet-spicy honey butter sauce. A comfort food favorite for brunch or dinner!
Ingredients
Fried Chicken:
-
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs/breasts
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1 cup buttermilk
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1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
-
1.5 cups all-purpose flour, 0.5 cups cornstarch
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Oil for frying (vegetable/canola)
Waffles:
-
2 cups all-purpose flour
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2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt
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2 large eggs, 1 3/4 cups milk, 1/3 cup melted butter
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
Spicy Honey Butter Sauce:
-
1/2 cup honey (or maple syrup)
-
4 tbsp melted butter
-
1–2 tsp hot sauce
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Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
-
Marinate Chicken: Mix buttermilk, spices. Marinate chicken 30 minutes to overnight.
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Coat & Fry Chicken: Dredge in flour-cornstarch mixture. Fry at 350°F for 5–7 minutes per side.
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Make Waffles: Combine dry & wet ingredients. Cook in waffle iron until golden.
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Spicy Honey Butter Sauce: Mix honey, butter, hot sauce, cayenne.
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Serve: Top waffles with chicken, drizzle with sauce.
Notes
-
Double-coat chicken for extra crunch.
-
Adjust spice level to taste.
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Reheat chicken in the oven for crispiness.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dinner
- Method: Frying, Waffle Iron
- Cuisine: Southern, American