Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe

Introduction

Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles is a dish that epitomizes the perfect balance of savory and sweet. This iconic comfort food combines crispy, golden fried chicken with fluffy, buttery waffles, creating a meal that is satisfying any time of day. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress family and friends. Follow this step-by-step recipe to master the art of this Southern classic.

Ingredients

For the Fried Chicken:

• 4 chicken thighs
• 4 chicken drumsticks
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Waffles:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 3/4 cups milk
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

• Maple syrup
• Hot sauce
• Powdered sugar
• Whipped butter

Instructions

this recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces and buttermilk.
2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step ensures tender, flavorful chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In another bowl, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, and coat each piece in the seasoned flour mixture.
3. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack and let it rest for 10–15 minutes to set the coating.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Drain the chicken on paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Waffles

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and combine them with milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
4. Preheat a waffle iron and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray.
5. Pour the batter into the waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Place a waffle on a plate, top it with a piece of fried chicken, and drizzle generously with maple syrup.
2. Add a dollop of whipped butter or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra indulgent touch.

Tips for Success

• Season the flour generously: Proper seasoning is key to achieving that authentic Southern flavor.
• Double-dip the chicken: For extra crispy chicken, dip the pieces in the buttermilk and flour mixture twice.
• Serve hot: Both the chicken and waffles are best enjoyed immediately after cooking.

Why Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles Is a Must-Try

This dish combines two beloved comfort foods into one unforgettable meal. The crispiness of the fried chicken contrasts beautifully with the soft, airy waffles, while the sweetness of the syrup ties everything together. It’s a versatile dish, perfect for a hearty breakfast, brunch with friends, or even a fun dinner idea.

Conclusion

Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles is a timeless recipe that never fails to delight. With crispy, flavorful chicken and perfectly fluffy waffles, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Try this recipe at home and bring the taste of the South to your table!

Serving and Storage Tips for Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles

Serving Tips:

1. Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the chicken and waffles as soon as they are cooked. The chicken will be at its crispiest, and the waffles will be fresh and fluffy.
2. Custom Toppings: Customize your dish by offering a variety of toppings such as maple syrup, hot sauce, honey, or fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas.
3. Pair with Sides: Complement the dish with sides such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the fried chicken and waffles.
4. Perfect for Brunch or Dinner: This dish is ideal for brunch, but it can easily transition to a satisfying dinner. Pair it with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade.
5. Keep the Chicken Crispy: To maintain the crispy texture of the fried chicken, place it on a wire rack instead of paper towels after frying. This allows air to circulate, preventing sogginess.

Storage Tips:

1. Storing Leftover Chicken:
   • Fried Chicken: If you have leftover fried chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes to restore its crispy texture.
   • Waffles: Store leftover waffles in a separate airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days.
2. Freezing for Later Use:
   • Fried Chicken: You can freeze fried chicken for up to 3 months. Place it on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven.
   • Waffles: Freeze waffles by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. To reheat, pop them in a toaster or oven for a quick breakfast or meal.
3. Reheating Tips:
   • Fried Chicken: For the best results, avoid microwaving fried chicken as it can make the coating soggy. Reheat it in the oven or a skillet to maintain its crispy texture.
   • Waffles: Waffles can be reheated in a toaster, oven, or even a waffle iron. A quick 2–3 minute reheat will restore their fluffiness.

By following these storage and serving tips, you can enjoy the deliciousness of Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles even after the meal is over!

1. Can I make Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep some parts of the dish ahead of time. The chicken can be marinated overnight, and the waffles can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to fry the chicken and make the waffles just before serving.

2. How do I keep the fried chicken crispy?
To keep your fried chicken crispy, place it on a wire rack instead of paper towels after frying. This prevents the chicken from sitting in its own steam, which could make the coating soggy. You can also reheat fried chicken in the oven to help retain its crunch.

3. Can I make the waffles without buttermilk?
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with a mixture of regular milk and lemon juice or vinegar. For each cup of buttermilk, use 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and then fill the rest of the cup with regular milk. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes to thicken.

4. How do I reheat leftover fried chicken and waffles?
To reheat fried chicken, place it on a baking sheet in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until hot and crispy. For waffles, you can use a toaster or an oven to warm them up. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make both the chicken and waffles soggy.

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