🇺🇸 USA · Food
Savory Southern Chicken and Waffles
By eatmundo · July 3, 2026
🇺🇸 USA delightful sweet and savory combination, Chicken and Waffles pairs crispy, seasoned fried chicken with warm, fluffy waffles. Often drizzled with maple syrup and sometimes hot sauce, this iconic Southern dish is a brunch favorite that offers a harmonious blend of textures and bold flavors.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
For the Fried Chicken: Prepare 4-6 pieces of fried chicken using your favorite recipe or a simplified version: Season 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Dredge in 1 cup all-purpose flour, then dip in 1 beaten egg mixed with 2 tablespoons milk, then dredge again in flour. Fry in 3-4 cups hot vegetable oil (350°F / 175°C) for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Keep warm.
- 2
For the Waffles: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt.
- 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1 ½ cups milk, and ½ cup melted unsalted butter (or vegetable oil).
- 4
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. A few lumps are okay; do not overmix.
- 5
Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions. Lightly grease if necessary.
- 6
Pour about ½ cup of batter per waffle onto the hot waffle iron. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Repeat with remaining batter. Keep waffles warm in a low oven while you finish cooking.
- 7
Assembly: Place 1-2 warm waffles on each plate. Top generously with crispy fried chicken. Drizzle with plenty of maple syrup. Serve immediately, with optional hot sauce on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which chicken cut is best for Savory Southern Chicken and Waffles?+
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are often preferred for their tenderness and juicy flavor, though chicken breasts can be used if brined to prevent them from drying out.
How can I ensure my homemade waffles are crispy on the outside and fluffy inside?+
Avoid overmixing the batter, as this develops gluten and makes waffles tough; slight lumps are acceptable. Cook them in a preheated waffle iron until deeply golden brown and steam output has significantly decreased.
What's the ideal frying temperature for the chicken, and how do I know it's perfectly cooked?+
Maintain an oil temperature of 350°F (175°C) for even cooking and a crispy crust. The chicken is done when it's golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What type of syrup pairs best with this dish, and how can I balance its sweetness?+
A pure maple syrup is traditional and complements the savory chicken beautifully. To balance the sweetness, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to your syrup or ensure the chicken itself is robustly seasoned.
🇺🇸 USMundo Match
Dishes across the world that share Savory Southern Chicken and Waffles's core ingredients.
