Print

Chicken and Waffles: 5 Secrets for Perfect Crisp

Chicken and Waffles

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Crispy fried chicken served on fluffy buttermilk waffles with butter and maple syrup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins (about 67 pieces)
  • 1 cup whole buttermilk
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder, divided
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder, divided
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground white pepper (or black pepper), divided
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika, divided
  • hot sauce, optional
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • vegetable oil, for frying
  • Buttermilk Waffles, click link for full waffles recipe
  • pure maple syrup & softened butter, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the buttermilk waffles as directed in that recipe. Reheat the waffles to serve once the fried chicken is done.
  2. Pat the chicken dry. Place tenders in a large resealable bag. Cover with buttermilk, 1 teaspoon each salt, garlic powder, onion powder, white pepper, and smoked paprika. Add hot sauce if desired.
  3. Massage everything together to coat the chicken. Seal and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
  4. In a shallow pie plate, combine flour with remaining 1 teaspoon each salt and garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon each onion powder, white pepper, and smoked paprika. Whisk to combine.
  5. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat to 350°F using a deep fry thermometer.
  6. Set a baking sheet aside. Take chicken from brine, shake off excess, and dredge in seasoned flour. Coat all gaps. Shake off excess and place on baking sheet. Repeat for all tenders.
  7. Let the coated chicken rest while oil heats.
  8. Carefully place 4-5 tenders into hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined sheet.
  9. Repeat for remaining chicken. Let oil return to 350°F between batches. Let chicken rest 5 minutes.
  10. Place waffles on plates. Top with fried chicken. Serve immediately with butter, maple syrup, and fresh fruit if desired.

Notes

  • Use a deep fry thermometer for best results.
  • Marinate chicken overnight for the most flavor.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pot when frying.
  • Serve the dish immediately for the best texture.

Nutrition