Chicken & Waffle Sliders

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Introduction

Chicken & Waffle Sliders are the ultimate indulgence, bringing together the perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite. Imagine crispy, juicy fried chicken sandwiched between two fluffy, warm waffles, all drizzled with a touch of syrup for that perfect comfort food experience. These bite-sized sliders are ideal for brunch, parties, or a fun dinner and are guaranteed to be a hit with anyone who loves the combination of savory and sweet.

The first time I made these sliders, I couldn’t believe how effortlessly they came together—and how quickly they disappeared! The crispy fried chicken paired with the soft, golden waffles was a match made in heaven, and adding just the right amount of syrup made each bite melt in my mouth. Watching my family’s faces light up when they tried them was a true highlight.

What I love most about Chicken & Waffle Sliders is their versatility. You can keep them classic with just chicken, waffles, and syrup, or get creative by adding a slice of cheese, a drizzle of hot sauce for a little kick, or even some fresh fruit for extra flavor. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or enjoying a fun family dinner, these sliders are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests with their sweet and savory goodness.

Perfect for:

  • Brunch gatherings
  • Parties and celebrations
  • Family dinners
  • Comfort food lovers
  • Game day snacks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Chicken & Waffle Sliders will become a favorite:

  • Sweet and Savory Combination: The contrast between the crispy chicken and soft waffle creates the perfect balance of flavors.
  • Perfect Bite-Sized Portions: These sliders are a fun and easy way to enjoy this classic combination in a portable, snackable form.
  • Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite sauces, from syrup to hot sauce or even honey butter, for extra flavor.
  • Comfort Food Classic: This dish delivers all the comfort food vibes, making it perfect for brunch or as a hearty snack.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re hosting a party or making a fun dinner, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 8 sliders
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Chicken & Waffle Sliders:

  • 8 mini waffles (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into small pieces (or chicken tenders)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 4 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (optional)
  • Lettuce or pickles for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Mini Waffles: Small waffles are perfect for sliders, providing the right texture and flavor without overwhelming the chicken.
  • Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and enhances its flavor, while also helping the coating adhere.
  • Spices: Garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper add depth and heat to the crispy coating.
  • Maple Syrup: The classic syrup enhances the sweet-savory balance, adding a rich and smooth finish to the sliders.
  • Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders are ideal for creating juicy, crispy pieces for the sliders.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces, buttermilk, and hot sauce (if using). Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to tenderize the chicken.
  2. Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and coat each piece evenly in the flour mixture.

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 1 inch deep.
  2. Fry the Chicken: Fry the coated chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Prepare the Waffles:

  1. Toast the Waffles: If using frozen mini waffles, toast them according to the package instructions until golden and crispy. If making homemade waffles, cook them until crisp and fluffy.
  2. Optional – Add Butter: For extra flavor, melt a little butter and brush it onto the waffles after toasting.

Assemble the Sliders:

  1. Stack the Sliders: Place a waffle on the bottom of each slider. Top with a piece of crispy chicken, then drizzle with maple syrup or honey.
  2. Add Toppings: If desired, garnish with lettuce or pickles for added crunch and flavor. Top with another waffle to complete the slider.

How to Serve

  • Brunch Platter: Serve the sliders on a platter for a fun brunch option alongside fresh fruit or scrambled eggs.
  • With a Side of Fries: Pair with crispy French fries or sweet potato fries for a hearty meal.
  • As an Appetizer: Serve as individual sliders on small plates for a delicious party appetizer.
  • For Kids: Serve with a side of fruit or a small salad for a balanced meal that kids will love.
  • On-the-Go: Pack the sliders in a lunchbox for a fun and portable lunch option.

Additional Tips

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and waffles ahead of time and assemble them right before serving.
  • Customize the Sauce: Drizzle extra sauces like hot sauce, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce for a twist on the classic syrup.
  • Bake Instead of Frying: For a healthier version, bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Use Frozen Waffles: Store-bought mini waffles save time and still deliver great flavor.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Chicken & Waffles: Add more cayenne pepper or drizzle hot sauce over the chicken for a spicy kick.
  2. Crispy Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful slider.
  3. Honey Butter Chicken & Waffles: Add a dollop of honey butter on the waffle for an extra sweet touch.
  4. BBQ Chicken & Waffle Sliders: Replace the maple syrup with tangy barbecue sauce for a savory twist.
  5. Southern Chicken & Waffles: Add a sprinkle of seasoned salt and serve with a side of collard greens.
  6. Vegan Chicken & Waffles: Use plant-based chicken tenders and vegan waffles for a fully plant-based option.
  7. Cheese-Stuffed Chicken Sliders: Add a slice of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to the chicken for a gooey, melty surprise.
  8. Sriracha Honey Chicken & Waffles: Drizzle a mixture of sriracha and honey for a spicy-sweet fusion.
  9. Fruit-Topped Chicken & Waffles: Top the sliders with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries for a burst of freshness.
  10. Maple Bacon Chicken & Waffles: Add crispy bacon strips for extra crunch and a smoky flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: You can freeze the chicken pieces after frying them. Freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.
  • Storage: Store leftover chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

Special Equipment

  • Waffle Maker: For perfect, crispy waffles to serve as the base of the sliders. You can use a traditional round waffle maker or a mini waffle maker for slider-sized portions.
  • Cast-Iron Skillet: Ideal for frying chicken with a crispy crust, offering even heat distribution for the perfect crunch.
  • Meat Thermometer: To ensure your fried chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for food safety and juiciness.
  • Deep Fryer: A dedicated deep fryer can make frying multiple pieces of chicken at once faster and more consistent.
  • Baking Rack: Placing fried chicken on a baking rack instead of paper towels helps keep it crispy while allowing excess oil to drain.
  • Mini Slider Buns: To hold the waffles and chicken together neatly, ensuring a balanced portion with each bite.
  • Mandoline Slicer: Use it to slice fresh ingredients like pickles or onions into thin, uniform pieces for added crunch and presentation.
  • Pastry Brush: For evenly brushing syrup, honey butter, or any glaze over your waffles or chicken.
  • Food Processor: If you’re preparing homemade chicken coating or sauces, a food processor can quickly blend ingredients like breadcrumbs, seasonings, or marinade.
  • Griddle: A large griddle can be helpful for toasting the mini waffle buns or warming the sliders before serving, giving them a golden finish.

FAQ

  1. Can I use regular waffles instead of mini waffles? Yes, you can use regular waffles, but mini waffles work best for sliders.
  2. Can I make the chicken spicier? Yes, add extra cayenne pepper or use spicy hot sauce to increase the heat.
  3. Can I bake the waffles instead of toasting them? Yes, baking the waffles is a great option if you prefer a crispy texture.
  4. What can I use as a topping besides syrup? Try honey, hot sauce, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce for different flavor combinations.
  5. Can I use frozen chicken tenders? Yes, frozen chicken tenders work well if you’re looking for a quicker option.

Conclusion

Chicken & Waffle Sliders are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, offering crispy chicken paired with soft waffles in a fun, bite-sized form. Ideal for brunch, parties, or whenever you’re craving comfort food, these sliders are easy to make and highly customizable to suit your taste.

Serve them with your favorite sauce, whether it’s maple syrup, honey mustard, or a tangy BBQ sauce, and top them off with extras like pickles or coleslaw for a truly delicious meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, these sliders are sure to be a hit every time.

I can’t wait to see your Chicken & Waffle Slider creations! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you make this recipe your own. Don’t forget to share your favorite toppings or variations in the comments. Happy cooking!

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