Chicken and Waffle Recipe

This amazing recipe that is sweet, savory, crispy, and fluffy Chicken and Waffle recipe is everything you CRAVE on one plate. Yes, you read it right! Combination of savory and crispy. This iconic comfort dish brings together two favorites: crunchy fried chicken and soft, golden waffles. If your children LOVE to eat waffles like mine, make this dish for them as a dinner and serve with fried chicken. Whether you're making this for a lazy weekend brunch or making yourself to a cozy dinner, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite. Trust me on this!

Chicken and Waffles has deep roots in both Southern cuisine and African-American food culture. While fried chicken has long been a staple in Southern kitchens, pairing it with waffles likely began in Harlem in the 1930s, where jazz musicians craved something hearty and satisfying after a late-night gig. Today, it’s a beloved classic found on brunch menus and soul food restaurants around the U.S.

For a creamy and flavorful twist on chicken, try the Marry Me Chicken Recipe it’s a perfect dinner option.

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Ingredients for Chicken and Waffle recipe
Instructions
Substitutions
Variations
Storage
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FAQ
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Pairing

Ingredients for Chicken and Waffle recipe

Chicken thighs or drumsticks – Bone-in pieces offer juicy, tender results. Boneless thighs also work well.
Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with tangy flavor.
All-purpose flour – The base of that crisp, golden coating.
Cornstarch – Adds extra crunch to the crust.
Baking powder – Gives lift for that perfect rise.
Eggs – Provide structure and richness.

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

Seasoned buttermilk marinade with spices in a glass measuring cup on a wooden cutting board

Step 1: Whisk the buttermilk or sour milk , garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika , Black pepper and salt together in a large mixing bowl or measuring jar.

Boneless chicken thighs marinating in seasoned buttermilk brine in a white bowl on a wooden board

Add the boneless, skinless chicken thigh to the bowl, making sure every thigh is covered in the brine. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the buttermilk brine from 1 hour to overnight in the fridge.

Flour, baking powder, and seasonings being whisked together in a mixing bowl

Step 3: In a mixing bowl whisk together flour, baking powder, and seasonings.

Chicken thighs being dredged in seasoned flour after marinating in buttermilk brine

Step 4: Take each chicken thigh from the brine and dredge into the seasoned flour. Thoroughly coat the chicken all over then let rest on a plate for five minutes before frying.

Chicken thighs frying in hot oil until golden brown and crispy

Fry the chicken in the hot oil (no more than about 4 thighs per batch) until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through completely, about 8-9 minutes.

Classic waffles topped with crispy fried chicken and drizzled with maple syrup

Make the Classic Waffles and serve the chicken on top of the waffles, then drizzle generously with maple syrup or honey.

Want the perfect waffles to pair with your chicken? Check out our Classic Waffle Recipe for crispy, fluffy waffles every time.

Hint: For extra juicy chicken, better flavor and texture, marinate it in buttermilk and spices for at least 4 hours—or overnight. Thank me later for this...

Substitutions

Buttermilk: If you don't have buttermilk, use regular milk with 1 tbs of vinegar or lemon juice.

Dairy Free: if you want to make this recipe dairy free use almond milk and dairy free butter for waffles.

Variations

Hot Chicken & Waffles – Add cayenne pepper or drizzle with hot honey for a spicy kick.

Cheddar Waffles – Mix shredded cheddar into the waffle batter for a cheesy twist.

Air Fryer Chicken – Skip deep frying and go for air-fried chicken.

Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free flour blends for both chicken coating and waffle batter.

Looking for more breakfast inspiration? Explore our Easy and Healthy Breakfast Ideas to start your day right.

Reasons to love Chicken and Waffle recipe

The Perfect Sweet and Savory Combo There's something truly magical about the contrast between crispy, seasoned fried chicken and soft, golden waffles. The savory spices in the chicken balance beautifully with the subtle sweetness of the waffles and syrup.
Ideal for Lunch and Dinner Brunch? Dinner? Late-night meal? This recipe doesn’t play by the rules. It works beautifully as a filling lunch, or even a hearty dinner. You get all the protein, carbs, and flavor in one simple dish.
Crowd-Pleaser for All Ages My kids love it. Me and my husband love it. Even picky eaters can’t resist it. The crispy chicken appeals to fried chicken lovers, while the waffles bring in the breakfast lovers. Add maple syrup or hot honey and watch your guests go back for seconds.