Introduction
If you’re craving the perfect combination of sweet and savory, crispy and fluffy, look no further than honey fried chicken and waffles. This classic Southern dish brings together golden, crispy fried chicken with soft, buttery waffles, drizzled with rich, warm honey for an unforgettable bite. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds.
In this article, we’ll dive into a 100% unique, mouthwatering recipe for making honey fried chicken and waffles, complete with expert tips to ensure perfect results every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy & Juicy: The chicken is seasoned to perfection, coated in a crispy golden crust, and stays juicy inside.
✔ Fluffy & Buttery Waffles: Light, airy, and slightly crispy on the edges, these waffles complement the fried chicken beautifully.
✔ Sweet & Savory Harmony: The drizzle of honey ties everything together, making each bite pure bliss.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, a weekend treat, or a special gathering, this dish never disappoints.
Ingredients
For the Honey Fried Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken tenders or bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 quart vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Waffles:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ¾ cups whole milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Honey Drizzle:
- ½ cup pure honey
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional for a spicy kick)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Submerge the chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best results). This helps tenderize the chicken and infuse deep flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Waffle Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the waffles light and fluffy.
Step 3: Coat and Fry the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the dry coating, pressing to ensure a thick, crispy layer.
- Fry the chicken in batches for 6-8 minutes per side (or until golden brown and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is reached).
- Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Cook the Waffles
- Heat a waffle iron and lightly grease with butter or nonstick spray.
- Pour batter into the waffle maker and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until golden brown.
Step 5: Make the Honey Drizzle
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, melted butter, and hot sauce (if using).
- Warm the mixture slightly for a smooth, pourable consistency.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
- Place a waffle on a plate and stack crispy fried chicken on top.
- Generously drizzle with warm honey butter sauce.
- Serve immediately with extra honey on the side for dipping.
Pro Tips for the Best Honey Fried Chicken and Waffles
✔ Marinate Longer for Juicier Chicken: Overnight marination enhances the tenderness and flavor of the chicken.
✔ Use Cornstarch for Extra Crunch: Adding cornstarch to the flour mixture creates a light, crispy crust.
✔ Keep Fried Chicken Warm: Place fried chicken on a wire rack in a 200°F oven to keep it crispy while you finish cooking.
✔ Crisp Up Your Waffles: For extra crunch, place cooked waffles in a preheated oven at 250°F for a few minutes before serving.
✔ Balance the Sweetness: If you prefer a savory touch, add a sprinkle of sea salt or crushed red pepper flakes to the honey drizzle.
What to Serve with Honey Fried Chicken and Waffles
Looking to elevate your meal? Here are some delicious side options:
- Scrambled eggs or a sunny-side-up egg for extra protein
- Cheddar grits for a classic Southern touch
- Fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries to add a refreshing contrast
- Crispy bacon for extra savory goodness
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C), place the breaded chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet, and spray lightly with cooking oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and fully cooked.
Can I use pancake mix instead of making waffles from scratch?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use a quality waffle mix—just add vanilla extract and melted butter to enhance the flavor.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Chicken: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Waffles: Keep in an airtight container or freeze them. Reheat in a toaster or oven at 300°F (150°C) for a crispy texture.
Final Thoughts
Honey fried chicken and waffles is the ultimate comfort food that blends crispy, savory, and sweet flavors into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re making it for a cozy brunch or a special weekend treat, this recipe will impress your family and friends.
Now it’s your turn—try this recipe and let us know how it turned out! Did you add your own twist? Share your thoughts in the comments!
