Chicken and Waffles

Name: Chicken and Waffles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup all-purpose flour; Oil for frying; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 eggs; 1 3/4 cups buttermilk; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 tbsp sugar; Maple syrup; Powdered sugar

Highlighted under: Pastry Shop Recipes

I absolutely love the crispy and flavorful combination of chicken and waffles! When I first tried this dish, I was blown away by how well the savory fried chicken complements the sweet, fluffy waffles. This dish has quickly become a favorite in my household, perfect for weekend brunches or special occasions. The balance of flavors and textures is truly satisfying, making it a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. Trust me, once you try this, you'll want to make it again and again!

Created by

The Ellensrecipes Team

Last updated on 2026-03-04T21:34:08.333Z

Creating the perfect Chicken and Waffles recipe took me quite a few tries, but it was all worth it in the end. I experimented with different spices and techniques for the chicken batter, and I found that a buttermilk marinade adds incredible tenderness and flavor. The addition of a dash of cayenne pepper gives just the right kick!

For the waffles, I discovered that using a mix of all-purpose and whole wheat flour enhances the texture, making them both fluffy and hearty. As an extra tip, serving them with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar elevates the experience to pure bliss.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

A winning blend of savory fried chicken and sweet, fluffy waffles
The crispy exterior of the chicken contrasted with the soft texture of the waffles
Perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner with friends and family

Mastering the Chicken

To achieve the ultimate crispy fried chicken, the marinating process is key. Buttermilk not only tenderizes the chicken but also adds a tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste. The garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne provide a well-rounded spice profile. Marinating for at least one hour is essential, but if you have more time, an overnight soak will yield even more flavor and tenderness. Ensure the chicken is well-coated and submerged in the buttermilk mixture for best results.

When frying the chicken, maintaining the oil temperature at around 350°F (175°C) is crucial. If the oil is too hot, the exterior may burn before the inside cooks thoroughly. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature. Fry each piece for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until they reach a golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It's a good practice to fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature.

Waffle Perfection

For the waffles, achieving the right consistency in the batter is essential for fluffy results. Overmixing can lead to dense waffles, so stir until just combined after mixing the dry and wet ingredients. The addition of baking powder and baking soda works together to create that delightful rise as they react with the buttermilk and provide the perfect fluffiness. Don’t skip the melted butter; it adds moisture and rich flavor that complements the crispy chicken beautifully.

Preheating your waffle iron is non-negotiable for the best results. Ensure it reaches the right temperature before pouring in your batter; if your waffles stick, it may be that the iron isn’t hot enough. Pour enough batter to cover the griddle but avoid overfilling. Each waffle typically takes around 4-5 minutes to cook. Keep an eye on them for golden brown edges as your visual cue for a perfect waffle.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your Chicken and Waffles:

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup all-purpose flour
Oil for frying

For the Waffles

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
2 eggs
1 3/4 cups buttermilk
1/4 cup melted butter
1 tbsp sugar

For Serving

Maple syrup
Powdered sugar

Make sure to have everything ready to go before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make delicious Chicken and Waffles:

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs, making sure they are coated well, and marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.

Prepare the Waffle Batter

In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and sugar. Combine both mixtures and stir until just combined.

Fry the Chicken

In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Dredge marinated chicken in flour and carefully add to hot oil. Fry for 8-10 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

Cook the Waffles

Preheat your waffle iron. Pour an appropriate amount of batter into the waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

To serve, stack a waffle on a plate, top with a piece of crispy chicken, and drizzle with maple syrup. Optionally, sprinkle with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Your delicious Chicken and Waffles are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For extra crispy chicken, double dip your chicken in the buttermilk and flour. It gives an extra layer of crunch that everyone loves!

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with maple syrup, but feel free to get creative. A dollop of whipped cream or a fruit compote can elevate your serving experience. For a savory twist, try adding hot sauce or jalapeño jelly on the side to bring some heat. I love to serve mine with a side of fresh fruit, which adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and waffles.

Don’t hesitate to scale this recipe up or down based on your gathering. It multiplies beautifully for larger groups, making it an ideal meal for brunch parties or family gatherings. If you’re serving a crowd, make the chicken and waffle components ahead of time and keep them warm in a low oven while you prepare the rest.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Both the chicken and waffles can be made ahead and stored. For the chicken, let it cool, then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven set to 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes to restore its crispy texture. Avoid microwave reheating, as it can make the chicken soggy.

The waffle batter can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This way, you can whip up freshly cooked waffles in no time. If you have leftover waffles, they can be frozen for up to a month. Just reheat in the toaster or oven for a quick breakfast option that doesn’t sacrifice on flavor!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful for frying.

→ Can I make the waffles in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the waffles, freeze them, and toast them when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat the chicken in the oven and the waffles in a toaster or microwave.