Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles

Name: Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 eggs; 1 3/4 cups milk; 1/2 cup melted butter; 1/4 cup sugar

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe. Crispy, golden-brown fried chicken served atop fluffy waffles creates a delightful sweet and savory combination that's perfect for brunch or a festive gathering. Elevate your Thanksgiving menu with this classic dish that will impress family and friends alike.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-11-27T05:25:40.796Z

This Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe is a delightful blend of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles, embodying the essence of Southern comfort food.

A Perfect Blend of Flavors

The combination of crispy, flavorful fried chicken with fluffy waffles creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. The savory spices of the chicken play off the sweet notes of the waffles, resulting in a dish that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings. Each bite provides a unique texture contrast, from the crunch of the chicken skin to the soft, syrupy goodness of the waffles.

To enhance the flavor profile, consider drizzling your creation with maple syrup, honey, or even a spicy honey glaze. This can elevate the dish even further, making it a perfect candidate for brunch or any special occasion. The layers of taste will surprise and delight your guests, ensuring that this meal becomes a staple at your family gatherings.

Brunch with Style

Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles is an iconic dish that can effortlessly elevate your brunch game. It's not just a meal; it's an experience that encourages socialization and enjoyment. The presentation is eye-catching and Instagram-worthy, making it a hit among guests of all ages. Pair it with fresh fruits or a side of crispy bacon to create a well-rounded brunch spread.

Additionally, this recipe is customizable. You can experiment with different spices or add toppings such as whipped cream, fresh fruit, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This versatility not only caters to different palates but also makes it an exciting dish that can evolve with your culinary creativity.

Making It Your Own

While this classic dish has traditional roots, don't hesitate to put your own twist on it. Consider trying different flours or seasonings for the frying mixture to create a unique flavor that suits your taste preferences. For the waffles, adding ingredients like vanilla extract or chocolate chips can bring new life to an already beloved recipe.

Don't overlook side dishes that complement this meal! A light salad or even a bowl of grits could enhance your dining experience. When you incorporate your favorite elements into the mix, you create not just a meal, but a personal culinary statement that speaks to who you are as a cook.

Ingredients

Fried Chicken Ingredients

4 chicken thighs
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Waffle Ingredients

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

Mix all ingredients thoroughly to ensure even cooking.

Cooking Steps

Marinate Chicken

In a bowl, soak chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 1 hour to tenderize.

Prepare the Frying Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a frying pan. Coat marinated chicken in the flour mixture and fry until golden brown.

Make the Waffles

In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, eggs, milk, melted butter, and sugar. Cook in a preheated waffle maker.

Serve

Top waffles with fried chicken and serve warm.

Enjoy your meal!

Chicken Thigh vs. Chicken Breast

When it comes to fried chicken for this recipe, chicken thighs are often the preferred choice. They have a higher fat content, which results in juicy, tender meat that doesn’t dry out easily during cooking. The dark meat also absorbs flavors beautifully, making every bite rich and satisfying.

On the other hand, if you prefer lighter meat like chicken breast, it can still work beautifully in this dish. Just be mindful of cooking times, as breast meat cooks faster. Whichever you choose, ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and the best eating experience.

Waffle Variations

Waffles can be customized in numerous ways. While the classic buttermilk waffle is always a crowd-pleaser, consider adding mashed bananas or blueberries to the batter for a fruity flair. You could also experiment with different types of flour, like whole wheat or almond flour, for a healthier twist.

Another great idea is to turn your waffles into dessert. Try incorporating chocolate chips or serving them with ice cream instead of syrup, transforming the dish into a decadent sweet treat. The possibilities are endless, letting you tailor the waffles to your preference and the occasion perfectly.

Perfect Pairings

This dish pairs excellently with beverages beyond the traditional orange juice or coffee. A refreshing mint iced tea or a sweet berry smoothie can elevate your brunch experience, complementing the savory and sweet elements of the fried chicken and waffles beautifully.

For those looking to add a bit of sophistication, consider serving mimosas or bellinis. The fruity effervescence perfectly balances the richness of the dish, rounding out the meal. No matter which drink you choose, it’s sure to enhance the enjoyment of this delightful Southern classic.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks.

→ How can I make the waffles fluffy?

Make sure to slowly fold in the egg whites for a fluffier texture.