Chicken with Buttermilk Waffles

Introduction

There’s something truly comforting about the combination of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles, especially when it’s paired with a tangy buttermilk marinade. This Chicken with Buttermilk Waffles recipe has become a family favorite in our household. The rich, savory flavor of the marinated chicken perfectly complements the sweet, soft texture of the waffles. Every bite is a delightful mix of flavors that brings smiles to our faces, whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or a special occasion. The air fryer makes this dish easier and healthier without compromising on that satisfying crunch.

Let me walk you through this delicious recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 4 chicken thighs
• 4 chicken drumsticks
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 3 sprigs of fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Breading:

• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil (for spraying)

Make Ahead:

• 8-12 buttermilk waffles

Instructions

Marinate Chicken

1. In a resealable bag, combine the chicken thighs and drumsticks with buttermilk, hot sauce, fresh thyme, and black pepper.
2. Squeeze out the excess air, seal the bag, and shake gently to ensure all pieces are coated.
3. Refrigerate and marinate for 4 to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

Prepare Breading

1. In a shallow bowl or small baking tray, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.

Breading Chicken

1. Remove chicken pieces directly from the marinade bag. Allow any excess marinade to drip off.
2. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture until fully coated. Place the breaded chicken on a cooling rack and let rest for 15 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better during cooking.

Preheat Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).

Cook Chicken Thighs

1. Generously spray or dab the chicken thighs with olive oil for a golden crust.
2. Place 4 chicken thighs in the air fryer, ensuring there’s space between each piece.
3. Set the air fryer for 24 minutes. After 12 minutes, flip the chicken, lightly spray the other side with oil, and continue cooking until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
4. Once done, remove the thighs to a cooling rack.

Cook Chicken Drumsticks

1. Repeat the same process for the drumsticks, cooking until they are crispy and golden.

Reheat Chicken Thighs

1. While the drumsticks rest, reheat the thighs in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes to maintain their crispiness.

Serve

1. Serve the crispy chicken hot alongside the prepared buttermilk waffles for a delicious brunch or dinner option.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 chicken piece with 1 waffle
• Calories: Approximately 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes (excluding marinating time)

How to Serve

• Serve hot chicken alongside warm buttermilk waffles.
• Drizzle with maple syrup for added sweetness.
• Offer a side of fresh fruit or a simple salad to balance the richness.

Additional Tips

1. Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Aim for at least 4 hours.
2. Breading Variations: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breading for a cheesy twist.
3. Spice Level: Adjust the hot sauce and cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
4. Cooking in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; cook in batches for even cooking.
5. Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers in the fridge.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for the breading.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano in the marinade.
• Waffle Add-ins: Incorporate blueberries or chocolate chips into the waffle batter for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the chicken and waffles with a side of spicy honey for drizzling.
• Offer a selection of sauces, like barbecue or ranch, for dipping.
• Serve with a refreshing salad dressed with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing Chicken: You can freeze the marinated chicken before breading. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Storing Leftovers: Store leftover cooked chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.
• Waffles Storage: Waffles can be frozen and reheated in a toaster for a quick breakfast.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and drumsticks?
   Yes, but adjust the cooking time, as chicken breasts may cook faster.
2. Can I bake the chicken instead of using an air fryer?
   Yes, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
   You can substitute with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
4. How can I make the waffles from scratch?
   Combine flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, eggs, milk, and melted butter to make a simple waffle batter.
5. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
   Yes, you can prep the chicken and waffles ahead of time and reheat as needed.
6. Can I use frozen chicken?
   It’s best to thaw chicken before marinating for even flavor absorption.
7. How do I know when the chicken is done?
   Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. What can I serve with this dish?
   Consider a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or sautéed greens.
9. Can I make this dish spicy?
   Absolutely! Increase the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
10. Are there vegetarian alternatives?
    You can substitute the chicken with fried tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Chicken with Buttermilk Waffles is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings comfort and joy to any table. The crispy, well-seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with the soft, fluffy waffles, making it an ideal dish for brunch or dinner. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a plateful of happiness!

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