Chicken and waffles is a classic Southern dish that combines crispy fried chicken with fluffy waffles, creating a delightful mix of savory and sweet. The chicken is typically seasoned and fried to perfection, while the waffles are golden and slightly crispy on the outside, yet soft and airy on the inside. This dish is often served with butter and syrup, but can also be accompanied by hot sauce or even gravy for an extra kick.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Vegetable oil for frying
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
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Appliances and Utensils:
– Deep fryer or large, deep skillet
– Waffle iron
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Tongs
– Slotted spoon
– Paper towels
– Cooling rack
– Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions:
For the Chicken:
1. Marinate the chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or skillet to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
5. Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the chicken and place it on a cooling rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
For the Waffles:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk, vegetable oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Pour the batter onto the preheated waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until the waffles are golden brown and crisp.
To Serve:
1. Place a waffle on a plate and top with a piece of fried chicken.
2. Add a pat of butter on top if desired.
3. Drizzle with syrup, hot sauce, or gravy, depending on your preference.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!