Crispy Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles : A Comfort Food Classic

Few dishes embody the soul of Southern cooking like Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles. It’s the perfect combination of savory, crispy fried chicken paired with fluffy, golden waffles — a mix of textures and flavors that’s comforting, indulgent, and unforgettable. Whether you call it a chicken and waffles recipe easy enough for a weeknight or a showstopper brunch centerpiece, this dish never fails to impress.

With its roots in both soul food tradition and Southern hospitality, this meal brings together the best of meat dinners and breakfast favorites in one plate. Imagine the crunch of perfectly fried chicken followed by a bite of buttery waffle — pure heaven. For another Southern-inspired comfort dish, you might also love my Texas Style Chili Recipe.

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Why This Chicken and Waffles Recipe Works

The magic of fried chicken and waffles lies in contrast. The chicken delivers juicy, flavorful meat inside a crunchy, seasoned coating, while the waffle offers a light, slightly sweet base. The pairing is enhanced by toppings — think creamy butter, warm maple syrup, or even savory gravy.

Here’s why this recipe shines:

• Balanced flavors – The sweet, airy waffles complement the seasoned fried chicken.
• Perfect textures – Crispy crust meets tender meat and fluffy waffles.
• Versatile toppings – Works with both sweet and savory finishes.
• Customizable – Adapt the spice blend, waffle batter, and toppings to fit your taste.

If you’ve ever wanted a savory waffles dish that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this is it. And if you enjoy chicken in creative forms, my Pretzel Crusted Chicken is another crispy favorite.

Ingredients for Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles

This recipe serves 4–6 people generously.

For the Fried Chicken

• 900g (2 lbs) bone-in chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
• 480ml (2 cups) buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 240g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 60g (½ cup) cornstarch
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Waffles

• 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 360ml (1½ cups) milk
• 120g (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For another savory poultry meal, you might enjoy my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Kebabs – perfect for grilling season.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Fried Chicken and Waffles

Step 1 – Marinate the chicken
Place chicken pieces in a large bowl with buttermilk and 1 beaten egg. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum tenderness.

Step 2 – Prepare the waffle batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Set aside.

Step 3 – Heat the oil
In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil to 175°C (350°F).

Step 4 – Coat the chicken
In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove chicken from the marinade, let excess drip off, and dredge in the flour mixture until well coated.

Step 5 – Fry the chicken
Carefully place coated chicken into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 8–12 minutes depending on size. Transfer to a wire rack to drain.

Step 6 – Cook the waffles
Preheat a waffle iron. Pour in the batter and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until golden and crisp.

Step 7 – Assemble and serve
Place a waffle on each plate, top with fried chicken, and finish with your choice of waffle toppings — butter, syrup, gravy, or fresh herbs.

For another fun family recipe, you could also try my Crescent Roll Mummy Hot Dogs — perfect for themed gatherings.

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Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Waffle iron
• Deep skillet or Dutch oven
• Tongs for frying
• Wire rack for draining chicken
• Measuring cups and spoons

Tips for the Best Chicken Waffles Recipe

• Double-dredge – For extra-crispy chicken, dip the coated chicken back into the buttermilk and then the flour mixture again.
• Keep waffles warm – Place cooked waffles on a wire rack in a 95°C (200°F) oven until serving.
• Season well – Don’t skimp on seasoning in the flour mix; it makes the crust flavorful.
• Oil temperature matters – Keep oil at 175°C (350°F) for even cooking and crispiness.

If you like bold flavors, try pairing this meal with my Garlic Butter Corn with Melty Cheese for a delicious side.

Savory Waffles vs Sweet Waffles – Which to Choose?

Savory waffles, made with herbs, cheese, or spices, create a deeper flavor pairing with fried chicken. Sweet waffles, with sugar and vanilla, offer a delicious contrast to the salty crunch of chicken. Try experimenting to see which you prefer. For another unique savory take, check out my Cheesy Zucchini Bread which also pairs well with hearty mains.

Easy Waffle Recipe Variations

• Buttermilk waffles – For tangy flavor and fluffy texture.
• Whole wheat waffles – Healthier with a nutty taste.
• Cheddar and chive waffles – Perfect for savory lovers.
• Gluten-free waffles – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

You might also enjoy making my Pumpkin Greek Yogurt Pancakes for another breakfast twist.

Best Waffle Toppings for Fried Chicken and Waffles

• Classic butter and maple syrup
• Honey drizzle
• Spicy hot sauce and syrup mix
• Country gravy
• Fresh herbs and microgreens
• Fruit compote for a sweet-savory combo

If you’re looking for more topping inspiration, my Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad also makes a refreshing side option.

Healthy Chicken Dinner Twist

To make this dish lighter while keeping it satisfying, try oven-baking or air-frying the chicken instead of deep-frying. Use lean boneless chicken breasts and whole-grain waffles for added nutrition. This keeps it aligned with healthy chicken dinner goals while still tasting amazing. For another healthier meat option, check out my Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Chicken and Waffles

• Frying at the wrong temperature leads to greasy or undercooked chicken.
• Overmixing waffle batter creates tough waffles.
• Skipping resting time for the chicken breading can cause it to fall off during frying.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Stack waffles and chicken for a towering brunch centerpiece.
• Serve on a large wooden board with multiple topping options for guests.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or edible flowers for a refined look.

For party presentation, you might also love my Mini Halloween Pizzas — bite-sized and fun.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Store fried chicken separately from waffles to maintain texture.
• Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Reheat chicken in a 190°C (375°F) oven for 10–12 minutes.
• Warm waffles in a toaster or low oven for crispiness.

For make-ahead ideas, my Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches are perfect to have on hand.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Waffles

Q: Can I make waffles ahead of time?
A: Yes — freeze cooked waffles and reheat in the toaster for quick serving.

Q: What’s the best oil for frying chicken?
A: Peanut oil or vegetable oil are ideal for crisp, golden results.

Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
A: Absolutely. Just adjust cooking time since boneless cooks faster. For another boneless chicken idea, check my One Pan Balsamic Chicken.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken and Waffles Recipe

This Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles recipe is the perfect balance of crispy, juicy chicken and soft, flavorful waffles. Whether you serve it for brunch, lunch, or dinner, it’s a dish that always satisfies. It’s adaptable, easy to make with a few tips, and perfect for impressing family or guests. For another comforting dinner, you may want to try my Creamy White Turkey Chili.

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