If you’ve ever dreamed of combining crispy, juicy chicken with fluffy, golden waffles, this Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. It’s a mouthwatering dance of textures and flavors that perfectly balances savory with a touch of sweetness, bringing a true taste of Southern comfort right into your kitchen. Whether for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this dish will quickly become one of your absolute favorites to serve and share with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping this Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe simple is key because every ingredient plays an essential role in creating authentic flavors and perfect textures. From the spices that season the chicken to the batter that makes waffles crispy on the outside and tender inside, each element contributes to the magic.
- Boneless, skin-on chicken thighs: These provide juicy meat with crispy skin, ideal for frying.
- Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and adds a subtle tang to the marinade.
- Hot sauce: Adds a gentle kick that elevates the marinade’s flavor profile.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika: A trio of spices that add depth and smoky warmth.
- All-purpose flour and cornstarch: The perfect coating blend for a super crunchy crust.
- Vegetable oil: Essential for frying to achieve that golden crispiness.
- Flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt (for waffles): These dry ingredients build the base for light and fluffy waffles.
- Eggs, milk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract: Combine to make waffle batter rich, flavorful, and perfectly textured.
- Maple syrup or honey (optional for serving): Adds a sweet finish that contrasts deliciously with the savory chicken.
How to Make Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by mixing buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a large bowl. Submerge the chicken thighs completely in this fragrant marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, but if possible, let it sit overnight—this step is where the chicken soaks up flavor and becomes irresistibly tender on the inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, blend all-purpose flour and cornstarch. This combination helps create that signature ultra-crispy crust we all crave. Take the marinated chicken out, letting the excess drip off, then press each piece firmly into the flour mixture, coating thoroughly. This step ensures every bite will have a satisfying crunch.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat enough vegetable oil in a large skillet to cover the chicken partially, aiming for a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated chicken thighs and fry them for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until they reach a beautiful golden color and are cooked through. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil, preserving that crispy perfection.
Step 4: Prepare the Waffle Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat your eggs, then whisk in milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet mixture slowly into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined; overmixing will make your waffles tough rather than light and tender.
Step 5: Cook the Waffles
Preheat your waffle iron according to instructions. Pour batter onto the hot surface, spreading lightly, and cook until the waffle is golden brown and crisp on the edges. The result will be warm pillows of flavor, perfect counterparts to the crunchy chicken.
Step 6: Serve
Place a freshly cooked waffle on a plate and crown it with a crispy fried chicken thigh. Drizzle generously with maple syrup or honey for a classic touch, and if you like a little extra heat, serve with hot sauce on the side. Every bite of this Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe is a celebration of warmth and heartiness.
How to Serve Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe
Garnishes
While the dish is stunning on its own, consider topping the chicken and waffles with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives for an added pop of color and freshness. A dusting of powdered sugar on the waffles contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken.
Side Dishes
Complement your Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe with classic Southern sides such as collard greens, creamy coleslaw, or crispy sweet potato fries. Light salads with tangy vinaigrettes can also offer a refreshing balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings, serve mini waffles topped with bite-sized pieces of fried chicken on skewers, garnished with a drizzle of honey mustard or spicy aioli. Layering the dish with jalapeño slices and pickles can also introduce exciting flavors and textures.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover fried chicken and waffles keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Keeping them separated will help maintain their individual textures, especially the crispy coating of the chicken and the waffle’s lightness.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken thighs and waffles individually by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in freezer bags. They’ll maintain the best quality for up to 1 month, allowing you to enjoy this Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe on a whim.
Reheating
To revive leftovers, reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Pop the waffles in a toaster or oven to regain their crunch and fluffiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
While chicken breasts are leaner, they tend to be drier than thighs. Using thighs in this Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe helps achieve juicier, more flavorful results because of their higher fat content and skin.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?
Marinating for at least 2 hours is essential for tenderizing and flavor infusion, but for the best taste and texture, overnight marination is recommended if you have time.
How can I make the waffles gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour in the waffle batter with a gluten-free baking mix that’s designed for waffles. Just be sure to check the baking powder ingredients to confirm it’s gluten-free.
What’s the secret to extra crispy fried chicken?
Using a combination of flour and cornstarch for the coating, frying at the right temperature, and not overcrowding the pan are all key factors in achieving extra crispiness in this Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe.
Can I make the waffles vegan?
Yes! Replace eggs with flax or chia eggs, use plant-based milk, and substitute butter with vegan margarine or oil. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings comfort, excitement, and a bit of Southern charm to your table. Don’t be intimidated by the steps—each one is simple and rewarding, guiding you to that perfect crunchy chicken paired with soft, flavorful waffles. Give it a go, and you just might discover your new favorite indulgence that everyone will rave about!
Print
Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe
- Prep Time: 2h 0m
- Cook Time: 0h 45m
- Total Time: 2h 45m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe offers a perfect blend of crispy, flavorful fried chicken paired with light, fluffy waffles. Marinated in buttermilk and spices, the chicken is fried to golden perfection, while the waffles are tender with a hint of sweetness, making this dish a beloved comfort food classic perfect for brunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Fried Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Waffles:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 3/4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight to tenderize and infuse flavors.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and let the excess drip off. Dredge each chicken thigh in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thorough coating.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated chicken thighs into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Prepare the Waffle Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then whisk in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Cook the Waffles: Preheat the waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pour batter onto the preheated waffle iron, spreading evenly. Cook the waffles until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
- Serve: Place freshly cooked waffles on plates and top each with a crispy fried chicken thigh. Serve with maple syrup or honey and hot sauce on the side for added sweetness and heat, enhancing the classic combination.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances tenderness and flavor.
- Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain oil temperature for perfect frying.
- Do not overmix waffle batter to keep waffles light and fluffy.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, as fried chicken can get soggy if left too long.
- For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
