Oh my goodness, wait until I tell you about this Crispy Chicken Waffle moment I just had! You know that craving when you literally can’t stop thinking about the perfect combo of crunchy, juicy fried chicken paired with a soft, fluffy waffle dripping with all the best toppings? That was me, absolutely obsessed last weekend. The Crispy Chicken Waffle I made? Next-level flavor bomb — the kind that hits sweet, savory, and a little spicy, all in one glorious bite.
The first bite is everything: crackly, golden southern fried chicken with that seasoned crispy crust, meeting warm, buttery waffle batter with a hint of vanilla sweetness. Then, throw on some real-deal chicken and waffle toppings like maple syrup and spicy honey butter? Game over, my friend. This Crispy Chicken Waffle made my kitchen smell like a soul food heaven. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a big warm hug, perfect for any day you want to treat yourself.
I remember seeing a drool-worthy version on Well Seasoned Studio’s southern-fried chicken and waffles recipe and thought, that’s it, I’m making THIS. So I took notes from that but added my own twist for the crispiest chicken and fluffiest waffles ever. If you’re a fan of fried chicken and waffles, this Crispy Chicken Waffle recipe will absolutely be your new go-to. I can’t wait for you to taste this joy, so let’s jump into everything you need and how to make it happen!
What You Need
Ready to make the most crave-worthy Crispy Chicken Waffle? Here’s everything you need to nail this combo at home:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into crispy-size pieces (go for organic or free-range for the best flavor)
- 2 cups buttermilk (grab this from the dairy aisle; it’s the secret to juicy southern fried chicken)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dredging crispy chicken
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika (adds smoky depth for your crispy chicken recipe)
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (for a bit of heat that’s just right)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt (sprinkle generously—this Crispy Chicken Waffle loves flavor)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil for frying (high smoke point oils are essential for that perfect crisp)
- 2 cups waffle batter (homemade or your favorite store-bought mix)
- 2 large eggs (for waffle batter or dredging)
- 1 tbsp sugar (I go heavy on sugar for waffles that balance the savory crispy chicken)
Flavor upgrade alert: This Crispy Chicken Waffle recipe gets even better when you use maple syrup, hot honey, or a homemade cinnamon butter for your chicken and waffle toppings. These elevate every bite with sweet and spicy notes.
Pro tip: Prep your chicken by brining it in buttermilk overnight to maximize tenderness and juiciness before you dredge it in the crispy coating. Also, freshly cracked pepper and hand-ground spices make a noticeable difference.
Store your flour and spices in airtight containers to keep them fresh—nothing kills crispy chicken throne like stale seasoning.
How to Make It
Here’s the breakdown for your Crispy Chicken Waffle that’ll wow everyone.
- Marinate your chicken in buttermilk. Let the juices soak in for at least 4 hours—overnight is best for southern fried chicken that’s juicy to the bone.
- Mix the dry dredge: Combine flour, smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This spice mix is lighting up our crispy chicken recipe.
- Get your dredging station together: Dip marinated chicken in the flour mix, back in the buttermilk, then again in the flour. Double dredge for maximum crunch.
- Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F. You want hot oil but not smoking—that’s the sweet spot for crispy perfection.
- Fry chicken pieces for about 10-12 minutes until golden and cooked through. Your Crispy Chicken Waffle starts here with skin so crisp it almost cracks.
- Drain on wire rack to keep chicken crispy while you whip up waffle batter.
- Make waffle batter if you’re going homemade. Whisk eggs, sugar, and milk into your waffle mix—easy and fast.
- Cook waffles in a preheated waffle iron until golden, fluffy, and smelling like vanilla heaven.
- Assemble your Crispy Chicken Waffle: Layer lunch-ready waffles, top with that steamy crispy chicken, and drizzle with maple syrup or your favorite spicy honey butter.
- Serve immediately so crispy chicken and warm waffles hug your tastebuds just right.
Trust me, your kitchen will smell incredible while this Crispy Chicken Waffle cooks, and you’ll be snagging second plates before anyone else.
For extra tips, check out this southern-style chicken and waffles recipe from Garlic & Zest. Their technique for seasoning and frying chicken is pure gold.
Serving This Up
Serving a Crispy Chicken Waffle is about balance and flair. Here’s how I love it:
- Classic maple syrup drizzle: Sweet meets savory in the best way.
- Spicy honey butter topping: Mix softened butter with honey and a pinch of cayenne. This chicken and waffle toppings combo adds a lip-smacking kick.
- Fresh berries or sliced peaches: Adds a fresh fruity balance when you want a seasonal twist.
- Crisp greens or a side salad: Cuts through the richness if you want a lighter finish.
- Crispy tater tots or sweet potato fries on the side for an ultra-satisfying plate.
This Crispy Chicken Waffle is a perfect weekend brunch winner or weekend supper that feels like a home celebration. Plus, leftovers work like a charm—toast up the waffle and reheat chicken in a skillet to maintain that crispy edge.
Set your plate so it’s picture perfect for the ‘gram: golden crispy chicken that glistens under syrup pools, waffle edges crisp and steaming hot. Seriously, sharing this at your next gathering will have everyone asking for the recipe.
I love pairing this with a glass of cold sparkling lemonade, making the sweet and tangy pop against the hearty fried chicken and waffles. If you’re looking for more crispy chicken flair, you’ve got to check out these Buffalo Chicken Taquitos for a spicy crunchy twist.
Your Questions Answered
1. How do I make this Crispy Chicken Waffle extra flavorful?
Marinate chicken in buttermilk with added hot sauce and extras like garlic and herbs. Also, season your flour dredge aggressively—salt and spice make all the difference! Try swapping regular paprika for smoked paprika for depth.
2. Can I meal prep this Crispy Chicken Waffle?
Yes! Fry chicken ahead, then refrigerate. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to keep the crust crisp. Waffles reheat well in a toaster or oven too.
3. What’s the best way to reheat Crispy Chicken Waffle without losing quality?
Skip the microwave. Use an air fryer or oven at low heat with a little foil tent to preserve crispiness without drying out.
4. Can I use store-bought waffle batter?
Definitely, but fresh makes your Crispy Chicken Waffle extra cozy and flavorful. You can easily jazz up store-bought waffle batter with vanilla extract and sugar.
5. What oil works best for frying chicken in this Crispy Chicken Waffle recipe?
Peanut oil or vegetable oil—they have high smoke points and neutral taste, allowing chicken spices to shine.
6. Any ideas on chicken and waffle toppings?
Maple syrup and honey butter are classics! For a spicy twist, drizzle a sriracha-infused honey drizzle or sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs like thyme.
7. Where can I find inspiration for other Crispy Chicken Waffle variations?
Check out these recipes like crispy chicken schnitzel alfredo for a creamy pasta spin or try playing with different seasonings to match your palate.
Final Bites
Here’s why this Crispy Chicken Waffle belongs in your classic dishes lineup: it delivers crunchy yet juicy fried chicken married to waffle batter that’s soft, buttery, and perfectly golden every single time. It’s comfort food with personality, easy enough to make on a whim, and guaranteed to make your taste buds explode with satisfaction.
My Foodie Tips:
– Brine chicken overnight in buttermilk with a splash of hot sauce for insane flavor and juiciness.
– Double dredge chicken in seasoned flour to lock in crispiness.
– Add a dash of sugar and vanilla to waffle batter for the ultimate sweet-savory dance.
For variety, try:
– Spicy Crispy Chicken Waffle with cayenne-rich coating.
– Sweet and savory honey butter-topped Crispy Chicken Waffle that melts into every bite.
– Loaded Crispy Chicken Waffle with gravy and scallions for a southern twist.
The version that crushes the most? The classic southern fried chicken and waffles combo with sticky maple syrup and buttery warm waffles—nothing beats it.
Don’t hesitate to mix and match toppings—make the Crispy Chicken Waffle yours!
If you want more crispy chicken inspiration, check out these flavor-packed dishes like crispy chicken wings for an appetizer upgrade.
Promise me you’ll give this Crispy Chicken Waffle a go. Once you taste that scrumptious cross of crunch and fluff, you’ll be hooked. Can’t wait for all you fellow foodies to dive in and share your drool-worthy takes!
Crispy Chicken Waffle
Enjoy the perfect combination of savory, crispy fried chicken paired with a golden, fluffy waffle in this classic Crispy Chicken Waffle recipe. A delicious Southern-inspired dish that’s ideal for brunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 3/4 cups milk
- 2 large eggs
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Butter, for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix 2 cups flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs until combined.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients; stir gently until just combined. Preheat your waffle iron.
- In a shallow dish, combine buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Place chicken thighs in the buttermilk mixture and marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Remove chicken from marinade, dredge each piece in the 1 cup flour until fully coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain fried chicken on paper towels.
- Cook waffles according to your waffle iron’s instructions until golden and crisp.
- Serve each waffle topped with a piece of crispy fried chicken, a pat of butter, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Notes
For extra crispiness, double dredge the chicken by dipping it again in the buttermilk and flour before frying. Serve with hot sauce for a spicy kick.