Chicken and waffles is a popular dish that combines fried chicken and waffles. It originated in the American South, but has become popular nationwide. There are a few main reasons why people enjoy eating chicken and waffles together:
The combination of flavors and textures
Chicken and waffles features two different foods with contrasting flavors and textures. The fried chicken provides a savory, crunchy, and salty flavor. The waffles offer a sweet, soft, and doughy texture. The interplay between the seasoning on the chicken and the syrup on the waffles is often described as a perfect sweet and salty balance.
It’s a filling and satisfying meal
Both fried chicken and waffles are hearty, filling foods on their own. Put together, they make for a very substantial meal. The protein from the chicken coupled with the carbs from the waffles provide a satisfying combination that can power you through the day. It’s a stick-to-your-ribs kind of dish.
The history and origins
Chicken and waffles has long cultural roots in soul food and Southern cuisine traditions. It likely originated in the late 1700s or early 1800s when African Americans started combining leftover fried chicken with homemade waffles. The dish allowed cooks to use up leftovers in a creative way. The unique pairing endured over time and became a beloved staple.
It brings people together
Nowadays, chicken and waffles is often enjoyed at weekend brunch gatherings with friends and family. Going out for chicken and waffles has become a social tradition in many places. The dish draws people together to laugh, talk, and savor the unexpected pairing.
The novelty factor
There’s something novel and playful about taking two breakfast items – chicken and waffles – and bringing them together as a meal. The unique mashup intrigues people and inspires creativity. While unusual sounding at first, the combo just works once people try it. The novelty makes it fun to eat and share.
Where to Find the Best Chicken and Waffles
Chicken and waffles has become a menu staple at restaurants across the United States. Here are some of the top spots praised for serving up exceptional chicken and waffles:
Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles (California)
This soul food chain launched in 1975 and now has locations throughout California. Roscoe’s is credited with helping popularize chicken and waffles on restaurant menus.
Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room (Georgia)
This comfort food institution in Savannah has been serving fried chicken alongside waffles since 1943. Expect hearty portions and southern hospitality.
The National Cafe (Pennsylvania)
This Philadelphia restaurant plates up chicken and waffles with flair. Get ready for elevated soul food paired with live jazz music.
Gladys Knight’s Chicken and Waffles (Georgia)
The legendary singer owns this Atlanta eatery serving up chicken and waffles with a side of Southern charm.
Yardbird Southern Table & Bar (Multiple Locations)
This hip restaurant group offers chicken and waffles with contemporary twists across its locations in Miami, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Singapore.
How to Make Chicken and Waffles at Home
Want to try making chicken and waffles yourself? Here are some easy steps to follow:
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken breast or chicken tenders
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 8 frozen waffles
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and soak in buttermilk for 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour and seasonings.
- Drain the chicken from the buttermilk and toss in the seasoned flour until fully coated.
- Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
- While chicken is frying, toast waffles according to package directions.
- Place chicken over waffles and drizzle with maple syrup to serve.
Tips
- Brining the chicken in buttermilk makes it extra juicy and tender.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is between 325-350°F for crispy chicken.
- Let the chicken rest on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up excess grease after frying.
- Serve the chicken and waffles immediately while everything is still warm and crispy.
- Add hot sauce, berries, or whipped cream to customize your version.
The Best Waffle Irons for Homemade Waffles
To take your homemade chicken and waffles to the next level, invest in a quality waffle maker. Here are top options for waffle irons:
| Waffle Iron | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Cuisinart Round Classic Waffle Maker | Dual indicator lights, 5-setting browning dial, nonstick plates |
| Chefman Anti-Overflow Belgian Waffle Maker | Quad cooking system, removable drip tray, beeping timer |
| Presto FlipSide Belgian Waffle Maker | Rotating design, countdown timer, extra-thick waffles |
| All-Clad 99011GT Stainless Steel Belgian Waffle Maker | Advanced heating technology, steam-release system, scratch-resistant surface |
| Krups GQ502D Belgian Waffle Maker | Adjustable browning control, deep-pocketed waffle plates, compact design |
Conclusion
Chicken and waffles combine salty, savory fried chicken with sweet, fluffy waffles for a satisfying soul food staple. The contrasting flavors and textures pair wonderfully together. This hearty meal has long origins in Southern cuisine traditions. Today, enjoying chicken and waffles has become a fun social experience at weekend brunches. You can also whip up your own version at home with juicy buttermilk fried chicken and homemade waffles.