Southern Fried Chicken Waffles are a delightful fusion of savory and sweet that has captured the hearts and palates of food lovers everywhere. This iconic dish, which marries crispy, golden-brown fried chicken with fluffy, syrup-drizzled waffles, has its roots deeply embedded in Southern cuisine, where comfort food reigns supreme. The combination of texturesfrom the crunch of the chicken to the softness of the wafflescreates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and indulgent.
People adore Southern Fried Chicken Waffles not only for their mouthwatering taste but also for their convenience, making them a perfect choice for brunch gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The dish embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality, inviting everyone to gather around the table and enjoy a hearty meal together. Whether youre a fan of sweet and savory pairings or simply looking for a new culinary adventure, this recipe promises to deliver a memorable dining experience that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
- For the Fried Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 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 cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 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 unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Butter, for serving
- Fresh fruit (optional)
Preparing the Fried Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Whisk until well combined.
- Add the chicken thighs to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. This will tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
- In another bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This will be your seasoned flour for dredging the chicken.
- After marinating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, pressing down to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess flour and set aside on a wire rack.
Cooking the Fried Chicken
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of flour into it; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
- Carefully add the chicken thighs to the hot oil, skin side down. Do not overcrowd the pan; you may need to work in batches. Fry the chicken for about 7-8 minutes on one side until golden brown.
- Using tongs, flip the chicken and continue frying for another 7-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is crispy and golden brown on both sides.
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. This will keep the chicken crispy.
Preparing the Waffles
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Let the batter rest for about 5 minutes while you preheat the waffle iron.
Cooking the Waffles
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or brush with melted butter.
- Once the waffle iron is hot, pour an appropriate amount of batter onto the center of the iron (usually about 1 cup, but this may vary based on your waffle iron). Close the lid and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically for about 4-5
Conclusion:
In summary, this Southern Fried Chicken Waffles recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their breakfast or brunch game. The combination of crispy, flavorful fried chicken paired with fluffy, golden waffles creates a delightful contrast that is both satisfying and indulgent. The sweet and savory elements come together beautifully, making each bite a celebration of Southern comfort food. For serving suggestions, consider drizzling your waffles with maple syrup or honey for an extra touch of sweetness. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries to enhance the dish’s visual appeal and flavor profile. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a spicy twist by incorporating cayenne pepper into your fried chicken batter or serving the dish with a side of spicy honey. We encourage you to try this Southern Fried Chicken Waffles recipe and experience the joy it brings to your table. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your experience with us! We would love to hear how your version turned out and any unique variations you may have tried. Happy cooking! Print
Southern Fried Chicken Waffles: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This delicious Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe combines crispy, flavorful chicken with fluffy, golden waffles, creating a perfect sweet and savory dish. Ideal for brunch or a comforting dinner, it’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- Waffle batter
- Fried chicken
- Maple syrup
- Butter
- Fresh fruit
- Seasoned flour
- Herbs (optional, e.g., thyme or rosemary)
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Cook the waffles for 5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crisp.
- Carefully remove the waffles and keep them warm in a low oven while you cook the remaining batter.
- To serve, place a waffle on a plate, top it with a piece of fried chicken, and drizzle with maple syrup. Add butter and fresh fruit if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the seasoned flour.
- Make sure the oil temperature is maintained while frying to ensure even cooking.
- Leftover waffles can be frozen and reheated in a toaster for a quick breakfast.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
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