Craving a comforting, quick meal? My Easy Chicken and Waffles recipe is just what you need! This dish combines crispy, seasoned chicken with warm waffles, all drizzled in maple syrup. It’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this simple recipe packs flavor and satisfaction in each bite. Let’s dive into the easy steps and ingredients to make this delicious classic meal!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
Additional Ingredients
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
– 4 frozen waffles (or homemade if preferred)
– Maple syrup for serving
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This list has everything you need to make easy chicken and waffles. The chicken will soak in the buttermilk, making it juicy and tender. The spices add flavor, while the flour will create a crispy crust when fried. Don’t forget the waffles! You can use frozen ones or make them from scratch. Maple syrup is a must for drizzling on top. Fresh parsley adds a nice touch for color. For the full recipe, check out the details above!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
First, grab a bowl. Combine 1 cup of buttermilk with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix it well. Now, add the two boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the bowl. Make sure they are coated fully. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. If you have time, let it marinate overnight. This helps the chicken soak up all those great flavors.
Preparing the Dredge
Next, let’s prepare the dredge. In a shallow dish, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to this mix. Stir it until everything blends nicely. This is what will help our chicken get that crispy coating.
Cooking the Chicken
Now, it’s time to cook the chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Take the marinated chicken out of the buttermilk. Let the excess drip off. Dredge the chicken in the flour mix, pressing gently to make it stick. Place the chicken in the hot oil. Fry for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want it golden brown and cooked all the way through. Once done, remove it and place it on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Toasting the Waffles
While your chicken cooks, prepare your waffles. Follow the package instructions if you are using frozen waffles. If you prefer homemade, now is the time to make them! Keep the waffles warm until you are ready to serve.
Assembling Your Dish
Let’s put everything together. Start with a waffle on a plate. Place a piece of fried chicken right on top. Drizzle with maple syrup to add sweetness. You can even sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this delightful dish! You can find the full recipe above.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Marinating
Marinating chicken helps it soak up flavor. I suggest a marination time of at least 1 hour. For the best taste, let it sit overnight. You can enhance flavor by adding spices like cayenne, thyme, or black pepper. These spices give the chicken a nice kick.
Frying Tips
Oil temperature is key for frying. Keep the oil at 350°F for crispy chicken. If the oil is too cool, the chicken can turn soggy. To avoid sogginess, do not overcrowd the pan. Fry one or two pieces at a time for the best results.
Waffle Options
You can use store-bought or homemade waffles. Store-bought waffles save time. If you choose homemade, you can control the flavor and texture. Try adding vanilla or cinnamon to the batter for a twist. You can also top your waffles with fresh fruit or nuts for added texture.
Variations
Healthier Alternatives
If you want a lighter option, try grilled chicken. Grilling keeps the chicken juicy and cuts down on fat. You can also swap regular waffles for whole wheat or gluten-free waffles. This adds fiber and makes it a better choice for everyone.
Flavor Twists
You can easily change up the flavors in your chicken. Adding spices like cayenne or black pepper to the dredge gives the chicken a kick. For a sweet twist, try using different syrups like berry or honey syrup. You can also add toppings like sliced bananas or pecans for extra fun.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken and waffles shine at any meal. For breakfast, serve with fresh fruit or a side of eggs. At dinner, pair it with collard greens or a crisp salad. This dish is versatile and can fit any time of day. Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your chicken and waffles, store leftovers properly. First, let the chicken cool to room temperature. Place chicken and waffles in airtight containers. This keeps them fresh longer. You can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them. They stay good in the freezer for about 2 months. To keep the food safe, avoid letting it sit out for too long.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat chicken and waffles, you have two main options: the oven or the microwave. The oven is the best choice if you want crispiness. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken and waffles on a baking sheet. Heat for 10-15 minutes, checking to avoid burning.
If you’re short on time, the microwave works too. Place your food on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Flip the chicken halfway to heat evenly. However, this method may make the chicken less crispy.
To keep your chicken crispy, avoid covering it when reheating. Enjoy your meal again with great flavor and texture!
FAQs
Can I make chicken and waffles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare chicken and waffles ahead of time. For the chicken, marinate it in buttermilk and spices. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cook the chicken just before serving for the best taste. For waffles, you can make them in advance too. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready, just reheat them in the toaster or oven. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal!
What can I serve with chicken and waffles?
Chicken and waffles pair well with many sides. Try fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas. A simple green salad adds a nice crunch. You can also serve coleslaw for a creamy contrast. For drinks, sweet tea or coffee works great. These options enhance the meal and make it more filling!
How to make the best homemade waffles?
To make perfect waffles, use a good batter. Make sure your batter is not too thick or too runny. Let the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking. Preheat your waffle iron for even cooking. Don’t open the iron too early; wait until the steam stops. This keeps your waffles fluffy and golden every time!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep! You can cook the chicken and waffles and store them separately. Keep the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For freezing, wrap cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap. Waffles can also be frozen for later use. Just reheat them in the toaster or oven when you’re ready to eat. This makes for easy and tasty meals all week!
In this post, we explored making delicious chicken and waffles. We covered ingredients, marinating, frying, and toasting the waffles. I shared helpful tips and tasty variations for your meals. Remember, you can customize the flavors and choose healthier options too. Don’t forget to store leftovers properly and reheat them for the best taste. Enjoy this comforting dish any time, and feel free to experiment for your perfect recipe!
