Backyard Chicken and Waffles
/Take your backyard BBQ to the next level with this irresistible Chicken and Waffles recipe! Crispy fried chicken paired with golden, fluffy waffles and a drizzle of syrup creates the perfect blend of savory and sweet. Whether you’re hosting brunch or looking for a fun and flavorful dinner, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Backyard Chicken and Waffles
Ingredients
- 2 Large Organic Chicken Breasts
- 0.5 Gallon Buttermilk
- 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (AP Flour)
- 1 cup Corn Starch
- 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- 1 tablespoon Paprika
- 1.5 teaspoons Salt
- 1.5 tablespoons Garlic Powder
- 1.5 tablespoons Onion Powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- 1 tablespoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked if possible)
- Enough Cooking Oil to cover chicken breasts in your frying container
- 2 cups Favorite Waffle Mix (See Notes below for a simple homemade recipe)
- 2 Eggs
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter
- 1.5 cups Whole Milk
- Butter (for serving)
- Maple Syrup (for serving)
Instructions
Notes
- Chicken Tips: If you can't find organic chicken breasts, slice large ones in half to keep the size manageable for frying.
- Frying Tip: Don't crowd the frying container. Give each piece of chicken enough space to cook evenly.
- Waffle Mixture: Never overmix the waffle batter. Some clumps are okay. Over stirring leads to chewy waffles.
- Rest Time: Let the waffle mixture rest on the counter for 3-4 minutes before using.
- Homemade Waffle Mix: If you don’t have a favorite waffle mix, try this from-scratch recipe:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Keeping Waffles Crispy: Place finished waffles on a wire rack while you finish cooking everything else to prevent them from getting soggy.
Follow these tips for the best results, and you'll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Additional Tips for Backyard Chicken and Waffles
Crispy Skin: For the crispiest chicken, let the breaded chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying.
Make the Waffles in Advance: Keep the waffles warm in a low-temperature oven while you finish frying the chicken.
Balance of Sweet and Savory: Drizzle the waffles with syrup or honey for added sweetness, or serve with hot sauce for a savory kick.
Bite-Through Skin: Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 3 hours to achieve tender, juicy meat and bite-through skin.
Add Some Spice: For a spicy twist, add cayenne or paprika to the chicken breading.
Whether for brunch or dinner, this dish strikes the ideal balance between savory and sweet, making it a favorite for any meal. With the right tips and tricks, you’ve mastered the art of this classic combo.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken for a healthier option, but the crispy texture won’t be the same as frying.
Q: What type of waffles work best for chicken and waffles?
A: Buttermilk or Belgian waffles work best as they’re fluffy and provide a good contrast to the crispy chicken.
Q: How do I keep the chicken crispy?
A: Place the fried chicken on a wire rack in the oven at a low temperature (around 200°F) to keep it warm and crispy while you finish cooking.
Q: Can I make the waffles ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the waffles ahead of time and keep them warm in the oven or reheat them just before serving.
Q: What sauce pairs well with chicken and waffles?
A: Maple syrup is the classic choice, but honey, spicy honey, or hot sauce also pair beautifully with this dish.