Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe:

Introduction:

Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles with Spicy Honey Butter Sauce is a mouthwatering dish combining crispy fried chicken with fluffy waffles, all drizzled with a sweet and spicy honey butter sauce. This comfort food classic offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet, with an optional kick of heat.

Ingredients

For the Southern Fried Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

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
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Spicy Honey Butter Sauce:

• 1/2 cup honey (or maple syrup)
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Brine the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne (if using). Add the chicken thighs and let marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for extra flavor.
2. Coat the Chicken: Mix flour and cornstarch in another bowl. Remove chicken from the buttermilk and dredge in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
3. Fry the Chicken: Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2: Make the Waffles

1. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Cook the Waffles: Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed (don’t overmix). Preheat your waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until golden and crisp.

Step 3: Make the Spicy Honey Butter Sauce

1. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey (or maple syrup), melted butter, hot sauce, and cayenne pepper. Adjust spiciness to your taste.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Plate It: Stack a waffle on a plate and top with a piece of fried chicken.
2. Drizzle the Sauce: Generously drizzle the spicy honey butter sauce over the chicken and waffles.

Serve immediately and savor the delightful contrast of crispy chicken, fluffy waffles, and a spicy-sweet sauce!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time for the chicken)
• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes (depends on the cooking time for both chicken and waffles)

Variations

• Add Fruits: Top the waffles with fresh berries or banana slices for added sweetness and texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the waffles and cornstarch for the coating to make this dish gluten-free.
• Spicier Sauce: Increase the amount of hot sauce or add extra cayenne pepper to the honey butter sauce for more heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers. The chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and the waffles for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Reheat chicken in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness. Waffles can be reheated in a toaster or waffle iron to crisp up again.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but thighs are typically juicier and more flavorful.
2. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before for better flavor.
3. What type of waffle iron is best? A standard waffle iron works well. Belgian or classic waffle irons both work for this recipe.
4. Can I make the waffles ahead of time? Yes, you can make waffles ahead of time and freeze them. Reheat them in a toaster or oven.
5. What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk? You can substitute with milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
6. How can I make the sauce less spicy? Reduce the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
7. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it? Yes, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.
8. How do I get the waffles crispy? Ensure your waffle iron is properly preheated and don’t overmix the batter.
9. Can I use a different type of oil for frying? Yes, you can use any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil.
10. What’s the best way to make the chicken extra crispy? Double-dip the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture for an extra crispy coating.

Conclusion

Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles with Spicy Honey Butter Sauce is a delectable dish that combines the crunchiness of fried chicken with the fluffiness of waffles, all smothered in a sweet and spicy sauce. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast or brunch, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Enjoy this indulgent treat and the delightful fusion of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.

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