Southern Fried Chicken Waffles are a delightful fusion of flavors that perfectly encapsulate the essence of comfort food. This dish has its roots in the Southern United States, where the combination of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles has become a beloved staple. The history of Southern Fried Chicken Waffles dates back to the 19th century, when it was often served as a hearty breakfast or a late-night snack, showcasing the region’s rich culinary traditions.

What I love most about Southern Fried Chicken Waffles is the incredible contrast between the savory, crunchy chicken and the sweet, soft waffles. Each bite offers a delightful explosion of taste and texture that keeps you coming back for more. Not only is this dish a feast for the senses, but it’s also incredibly convenient, making it perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family dinners. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that celebrates the heart and soul of Southern cuisine!

Ingredients:

For the Fried Chicken:

4 pieces of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
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 melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Serving:

Maple syrup
Butter (optional)
Fresh fruit (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Marinate the Chicken**: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and tenderness. 2. **Prepare the Coating**: 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 coating the chicken. 3. **Heat the Oil**: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of the flour mixture into it; if it sizzles, it’s ready. 4. **Coat the Chicken**: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing down to ensure a good coating. Shake off any excess flour and set the coated chicken aside on a wire rack.

Frying the Chicken

5. **Fry the Chicken**: Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, skin side down. Do not overcrowd the pan; you may need to fry in batches. Fry for about 7-10 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 7-10 minutes on the other side. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). 6. **Drain the Chicken**: Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil. This will keep the chicken crispy.

Preparing the Waffles

7. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. 8. **Mix Wet Ingredients**: In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth. 9. **Combine Mixtures**: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. 10. **Preheat the Waffle Iron**: Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If it requires greasing, lightly brush it with oil or spray with non-stick cooking spray. 11. **Cook the Waffles**: Pour the appropriate amount of batter into the preheated waffle iron (usually about 1 cup, but check your iron’s instructions). Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp, usually about 5 minutes. Repeat with the remaining batter.

Assembling the Dish

12. **Plate the Waffles**: Place a warm waffle on a plate. You can cut it in half if you prefer smaller portions. 13. **Add the Chicken**: Top the waffle with a piece of the crispy

Conclusion:

In summary, this Southern Fried Chicken Waffles recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their brunch game or simply indulge in a deliciously comforting meal. The combination of crispy, golden-brown fried chicken paired with fluffy, warm waffles creates a delightful contrast that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Not only is this dish a feast for the senses, but it also brings a touch of Southern charm to your table, making it perfect for gatherings with family and friends. For serving suggestions, consider drizzling your waffles with maple syrup or honey for that classic sweet-and-savory experience. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or fresh fruit on top for a refreshing twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different spices in your chicken batter or even swapping out the traditional waffles for cornbread waffles for a unique Southern flair. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Southern Fried Chicken Waffles recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of pure comfort. Happy cooking! Print