Chicken and waffles is a dish with origins in the United States. It’s believed to have emerged in the late 19th to early 20th century, with some evidence suggesting it originated in the African American communities of the Southern United States. The combination of fried chicken and waffles was likely inspired by the merging of traditional Southern fried chicken with waffle-making techniques brought by European immigrants. Over time, it gained popularity and became a soul food staple, enjoyed both for its unique blend of flavors and as a comfort food. Today, chicken and waffles can be found in various forms across the U.S. and has even spread to some other countries’ cuisines.
Here’s a basic recipe for making chicken and waffles:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 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 melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
For the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine the chicken and buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Take each piece of chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, and coat it in the flour mixture.
- Fry the chicken in batches for about 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
For the Waffles:
- Preheat your waffle iron according to its instructions.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Don’t overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
- Pour the waffle batter onto the preheated waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until golden and crispy.
To Serve: Place a piece of fried chicken on top of a warm waffle and drizzle with maple syrup or your favorite sauce. You can also add some butter, powdered sugar, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding herbs, spices, or other toppings to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken and waffles!
The choice of syrup for chicken and waffles can depend on your personal taste preferences. Here are a few syrup options that work well with the savory and sweet combination of chicken and waffles:
- Maple Syrup: A classic choice that offers a rich, natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with both the crispy fried chicken and the fluffy waffles.
- Spicy Syrups: For a bit of contrast, you could try a spicy syrup that adds some heat to the dish. Look for syrups that include ingredients like chili peppers or hot sauces.
- Fruit Compotes: Fruit-based syrups or compotes, such as blueberry, raspberry, or mixed berry, can add a fruity and slightly tangy element to the dish, balancing the flavors.
- Honey: If you prefer a milder sweetness, honey can complement the dish nicely. It adds a touch of floral flavor that contrasts with the savory chicken.
- Bourbon-Infused Syrups: For a more sophisticated twist, consider using a bourbon-infused syrup. The smoky, caramel notes of bourbon can elevate the flavors of the dish.
- Savory Syrups: Some people enjoy experimenting with savory syrups, like bacon-infused or rosemary-infused syrups, which can add depth and complexity to the meal.
Ultimately, the best syrup will depend on your taste preferences and the flavor combination you find most appealing. Feel free to get creative and try different syrups to find the one that suits your palate the best.
Not Your Grams Kitchen 