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What do they call chicken and waffles in Pennsylvania?

Chicken and waffles is a popular soul food dish that originated in the American South. It typically consists of fried chicken served alongside waffles, often topped with butter and syrup. While the dish is beloved across the United States, it goes by a few different regional nicknames, including in Pennsylvania.

Quick Answer: Amish Chicken and Waffles

In Pennsylvania, specifically in areas influenced by Amish culture, chicken and waffles is commonly referred to as “Amish chicken and waffles.” This name connects the dish to the Amish communities found across the rural parts of the state.

The History of Chicken and Waffles in Pennsylvania

Chicken and waffles has long been a part of Pennsylvania’s culinary tradition. In the 1700s and 1800s, chicken and waffles was a common dish in the southern part of the state, which had stronger cultural ties to neighboring Maryland and Virginia where the dish was popularized.

As German immigrants began settling in Pennsylvania in the 1800s, many opened restaurants that served chicken alongside traditional German waffles. This gradually evolved into the classic soul food recipe we know today.

Additionally, as more Amish communities were established in rural Pennsylvania in the 1800s, they brought their traditional dishes and cooking methods with them. This likely influenced the development of chicken and waffles using local ingredients and preparation techniques.

The Amish Influence

Today, Amish chicken and waffles often features buttermilk-brined chicken dredged in homemade flour before frying. The waffles are made from scratch as well, resulting in a heartier, more cake-like texture compared to regular waffles.

The Amish communities in Pennsylvania are concentrated in the southeastern and southcentral parts of the state, so this style of chicken and waffles is most common in those areas. The nickname “Amish chicken and waffles” connects this regional preparation to its Amish cultural roots.

Other Nicknames in Pennsylvania

While “Amish chicken and waffles” is the most common nickname, there are some other regional variations as well:

  • Pennsylvania Dutch chicken and waffles – Refers to the influence of German immigrants in central PA
  • Pennsylvania red chicken and waffles – Uses a ketchup-based sauce to coat the fried chicken
  • Sweet and salty chicken waffles – Features sweet toppings like peaches or honey
  • Pittsburgh chicken waffle stacks – Taller waffle stacks populatized in Pittsburgh

Chicken and Waffles Outside Pennsylvania

Beyond Pennsylvania’s borders, chicken and waffles goes by other colorful regional names:

Region Nickname
Mid-Atlantic Chicken ‘n waffles
Midwest Chicken on a raft
South Chicken and gravy waffles
West Coast Hollywood chicken waffles

The Best Places for Chicken and Waffles in PA

From small town diners to urban restaurants, great chicken and waffles can be found across Pennsylvania. Here are some of the most famous spots to try it:

  • Brown’s Family Restaurant (Philadelphia) – Beloved for their crispy fried chicken and light waffles
  • Cherry Street BBQ (West Reading) – Creative chicken and waffle sandwiches
  • Quaker Steak & Lube (Multiple Locations) – Part of their “cbunker” chicken wing options
  • The Porch at 30th Street Station (Philadelphia) – Gourmet chicken and waffles plates
  • Waffles Incaffeinated (Multiple locations) – Specialize in unique chicken and waffle flavors

How to Make Classic PA Chicken and Waffles at Home

To make authentic Amish-style chicken and waffles at home:

  1. Make waffles from scratch using a classic recipe with flour, eggs, milk, oil, baking powder, sugar, and salt
  2. Brine chicken pieces in buttermilk overnight to make them extra juicy
  3. Coat chicken in flour, spices, and cornmeal before frying in oil until crispy
  4. Serve fried chicken over fresh waffles, adding butter, syrup, honey, or other desired toppings

This traditional preparation brings the comforting flavors of Pennsylvania’s chicken and waffles to your own kitchen. Be sure to go light on the syrup so you can enjoy the amazing combination of crisp, savory chicken and soft, sweet waffles.

Conclusion

In Pennsylvania, especially among Amish communities, chicken and waffles is affectionately dubbed “Amish chicken and waffles.” The dish has deep roots in Pennsylvania’s culinary history and connects back to the traditions of German immigrants and rural Amish farming culture. While nicknames and preparations vary by region, Pennsylvania’s take on chicken and waffles stands out as a delicious soul food tradition. From Amish home kitchens to popular restaurants, chicken and waffles remains a staple dish across the state.