Fried chicken and waffles is a classic combination that’s every bit as delicious as it is unexpected. It can be a breakfast, lunch or dinner—and it makes for exquisite late-night snacking! When you need a change from pancakes and bacon or sausage and eggs, crispy chicken and sweet waffles drizzled in maple syrup is the way to go.
Why is chicken and waffles a thing?
Chicken and waffles is actually a vintage recipe from early America. The combination dates back to the 1600s in Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine when pulled chicken was piled atop waffles. In the 19th century, German settlers often dined on chicken and waffles covered in gravy. By the 1930s, the dish was reinvented again, this time in Harlem, where the Wells Supper Club served chicken and waffles to those dining too late for dinner but too early for breakfast. Today, the combo is a favorite southern comfort food.
Fried Chicken and Waffles Ingredients
- Seasoned flour: Adding seasonings and spices to the flour imbues flavor into the breading. Our recipe features a balanced mix of garlic, herby thyme and spicy paprika, but you can stir in just about any dried spices and herbs you like.
- Milk and lemon: Stirring lemon juice into milk results in a sour, tangy buttermilk substitute that adds flavor to the chicken. It also helps the flour stick, resulting in crispier chicken.
- Maple syrup: Rich, sweet maple syrup is a tasty contrast to the savory chicken, and it binds the flavors of the entire dish together. Make sure you’re using the best maple syrup.
Directions
Step 1: Prep the dry chicken breading
In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, thyme, paprika, salt, garlic powder and pepper. Use a bowl that’s wide enough to fit the chicken pieces when you dredge them in.
Step 2: Whisk the egg mixture
In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the egg, milk and lemon juice until blended.
Step 3: Dredge the chicken
Dip each piece of chicken in the flour mixture to coat all sides; shake off excess. Dip the chicken in the egg mixture, then again in the flour mixture. This triple coating ensures a thick, even layer of breading, which creates a crisp crust.
Step 4: Fry the chicken
In an electric skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 375°F. Fry the chicken, a few pieces at a time, until the skin is golden brown and juices run clear, 6 to 10 minutes on each side. One of the best tips for southern fried chicken? Don’t overfill the fryer, or the temperature of the oil will drop, resulting in a soggy coating. If you’re new to frying at home, check out our guide to deep-frying with confidence.
Drain the cooked chicken on paper towels or a wire rack while the next batch cooks. Keep warm in a low oven.
Step 5: Combine the dry ingredients for the waffles
Now it’s time to make the waffle batter. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.
Step 6: Stir together the wet ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, milk and oil until the mixture is uniform in color and texture.
Step 7: Combine the wet and dry ingredients
Stir the egg mixture into the flour mixture just until moistened.
Step 8: Whip egg whites
In a small bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form; fold into batter.
Step 9: Cook the waffles
Bake the waffles in a preheated waffle maker according to manufacturer’s directions.
Step 10: Put it all together
Top each waffle with a piece of chicken, drizzle with maple syrup, and enjoy!
Fried Chicken and Waffles Tips
Which are the best parts to use for fried chicken and waffles?
We like to use boneless chicken for fried chicken and waffles. That makes the chicken easy to eat with a knife and fork, along with the waffle. Boneless thighs are very juicy and tender, but you can also use wings or chicken strips.
How do you know when fried chicken is done?
In general, chicken is done if the juices run clear when pierced. To be extra certain, you should test the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken. Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°, though we prefer the taste and texture of dark meat cooked to 170 to 175°.
Can you use frozen waffles for chicken and waffles?
While it’s tough to beat a fresh, homemade waffle, you can definitely speed up the process by using a frozen waffle. You can find our Test Kitchen’s best frozen waffles to see which calls to you. If you’re truly in a rush, you can even use frozen chicken strips as well as frozen waffles.
What should you serve with fried chicken and waffles?
We love classic maple syrup with waffles. The sweetness complements the savory chicken and ties it to the waffle. Honey works, too. If you like heat, shake on a dash of hot sauce.
Many brunch side dishes taste delicious with chicken and waffles. Think bacon (extra points if you make caramelized bacon twists), hash browns, fruit salad or fried eggs. Serving chicken and waffles for dinner? Prep a classic side dish for fried chicken.
