“Have you ever craved a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate?” That’s how I feel about these Chicken & Waffle Sliders. This delightful dish captures the joy of comfort food, merging crispy fried chicken with fluffy waffles, offering a bite-sized experience that perfectly balances savory and sweet. Not only are these sliders a hit at casual get-togethers, but they’re also incredibly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients to make them uniquely yours. Plus, they’re meal prep-friendly, making your week a little easier without sacrificing flavor or fun. Whether you’re serving them for Sunday brunch or a quick dinner, these Chicken & Waffle Sliders are bound to become a favorite in your home. Are you ready to dive into this deliciously fun twist on classic comfort food?
Why You’ll Crave These Sliders
Irresistible Comfort: This recipe perfectly captures the warm, cozy essence of home-cooked meals that everyone loves.
Customizable Delight: Add your favorite toppings or sauces, like crispy bacon or spicy mayo, to create your unique flavor combination.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead and pop them in the fridge for a quick lunch or dinner that never disappoints.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these sliders will impress guests of all ages, just like my Street Corn Chicken.
Versatile Serving Options: Present them on a platter with various dips, making it a fun and interactive dining experience.
Quick Assembly: With minimal cooking time, you can whip up a batch of these delightful sliders in no time!
Chicken & Waffle Sliders Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Use boneless, skinless pieces for easy assembly that’s perfect for sliders.
• Buttermilk – This marinade tenderizes the chicken, but feel free to substitute with plain yogurt for a similar effect.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor; fresh garlic can be used for a bolder taste.
• Onion Powder – Provides a mild sweetness, though finely minced onion serves as a great alternative.
• Paprika – Enhances color and flavor; smoked paprika offers a richer profile.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential to bring everything together; adjust according to your taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates that crispy coating; opt for a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
• Cornmeal – Adds crunch and flavor to the mix; use extra flour if cornmeal isn’t available.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the coating lightly; it’s optional based on preference.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – These leavening agents ensure a light, airy texture for the coating.
For the Waffles
• Mini Waffles – The perfect base for sliders; choose store-bought for convenience or make your own for a personal touch.
For Serving
• Maple Syrup – The sweet counterpart to savory chicken; alternative syrups or honey can add a unique twist.
• Fresh Fruit – Use seasonal berries or banana slices to enhance flavor and presentation.
• Cooking Oil – Essential for frying; go for neutral oils like vegetable or canola for best results.
Whether it’s a casual brunch or dinner, these Chicken & Waffle Sliders are a comforting favorite that can be easily adapted to bring joy to your table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken & Waffle Sliders
Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade. Add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Mix
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the dry coating mix. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornmeal, powdered sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Ensure the mixture is well-combined and lump-free, creating a light and airy texture for the crispy coating that will accompany your Chicken & Waffle Sliders.
Step 3: Heat Oil
In a large, deep skillet, pour in about 1 inch of neutral cooking oil, such as vegetable or canola. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready, drop in a small piece of bread; if it bubbles and turns golden brown, your oil is perfect for frying the chicken.
Step 4: Dredge Chicken
Once marinated, remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture and allow any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the dry mix, ensuring a complete coating. This creates the crispy exterior that perfectly contrasts with the fluffy waffles in your Chicken & Waffle Sliders.
Step 5: Fry Chicken
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, frying for 5-7 minutes on each side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use tongs to flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Toast Waffles
While the chicken is frying, toast your mini waffles until they’re crispy—if using store-bought, follow package instructions. Alternatively, if you’re making homemade waffles, ensure they are light and fluffy. The toasty, golden waffles will form the perfect base for your Chicken & Waffle Sliders, providing a delightful texture contrast.
Step 7: Assemble Sliders
To assemble, place one piece of fried chicken atop a mini waffle, and generously drizzle maple syrup over the chicken. Add another waffle on top, pressing down gently to secure the sliders together. For an extra touch, you can top with fresh fruit, such as berries or banana slices, enhancing both flavor and presentation for your Chicken & Waffle Sliders.
What to Serve with Chicken & Waffle Sliders
Pair your Chicken & Waffle Sliders with delightful sides and beverages to create a truly memorable meal experience.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet, earthy flavor that balances the savory chicken while adding a satisfying crunch.
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Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly tangy taste complements the sweetness of the waffles, adding depth and freshness to your meal.
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Classic Coleslaw: With its creamy, tangy dressing, coleslaw serves as a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sliders, providing a textural crunch.
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Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots echo the syrupy vibe of the sliders while introducing a beautiful pop of color to your plate.
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Refreshing Lemonade: A glass of chilled lemonade enhances the overall dining experience with its tangy, sweet flavor, perfectly cutting through the richness.
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Fruity Mimosa: For a festive touch, this cocktail blends citrusy flavors with bubbly, making a bright contrast to the savory elements of your sliders.
Each of these sides adds layers of taste and enjoyment, elevating your Chicken & Waffle Sliders to a complete meal that will leave you and your guests eagerly coming back for more.
Chicken & Waffle Sliders Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make these sliders your own delicious masterpiece!
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Baked Chicken: Swap frying for baking to create a healthier version. Season the chicken and bake until golden for a lighter option that still delights.
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Flavor Boost: Try drizzling different syrups, such as berry compote or honey, for a unique twist. This simple change can elevate the sweet element to new heights, giving every bite a fresh flair.
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Savory Additions: Layer crispy bacon or melted cheese between the waffles for extra richness. Imagine the smoky taste of bacon mingling with the sweet syrup — it’s a symphony of flavors.
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Spicy Variation: Spice things up by marinating chicken in hot sauce. For a fiery finish, top with jalapeños or chipotle aioli for those who crave heat in their comfort food.
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Vegan Delight: Substitute chicken with plant-based nuggets and use vegan waffles for a tasty, cruelty-free alternative. It’s an excellent way to enjoy comfort food while catering to diverse dietary needs.
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Herbed Chicken: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the buttermilk marinade for an aromatic flavor enhancement. Fresh herbs can elevate these sliders, giving them a garden-fresh taste.
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Mini Waffle Swap: Experiment with flavored waffles, like blueberry or chocolate chip, to add an unexpected twist. These variations add a fun surprise to each bite, turning the ordinary into something extraordinary.
As you explore these variations, you might also love serving them with delightful dips like spicy mayo or even a tangy ranch — just like my Chopped Chicken Bacon for a fun twist! For those warmer days, try pairing them with a refreshing drink, similar to my favorite combo with Mexican Chicken Rice. Enjoy your culinary journey!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken & Waffle Sliders are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply. Alternatively, you can fry the chicken ahead of time; just refrigerate it for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to restore its crispy texture. The mini waffles can also be toasted and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and waffles, assemble the sliders with a drizzle of maple syrup, and enjoy a delightful meal that saves you time without compromising on flavor!
Expert Tips for Chicken & Waffle Sliders
Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best results, ensuring a delightful flavor and texture in your Chicken & Waffle Sliders.
Marination Magic: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor; for even richer taste, let it marinate overnight.
Perfect Oil Temperature: Test your oil with a small bread piece; if it bubbles and browns, it’s ready. Proper temperature prevents soggy chicken.
Crispy Coating: Ensure the dry mix is lump-free for that light, airy texture, crucial for achieving the ideal crunch in your sliders.
Don’t Rush Frying: Fry chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through; using a meat thermometer ensures safety at 165°F (74°C).
Customize Flavors: Have fun swapping out toppings or syrups to suit your taste. Options like spicy mayo or sweet berry syrup can elevate your Chicken & Waffle Sliders.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken & Waffle Sliders
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Chicken & Waffle Sliders fresh for the best taste, but if left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, keeping the flavors intact and ready to enjoy again.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual sliders by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, ensuring that crunchiness is preserved.
Chicken & Waffle Sliders Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for Chicken & Waffle Sliders?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, providing an easy and tender option. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs can also work wonderfully, adding extra juiciness.
How should I store leftover Chicken & Waffle Sliders?
I recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and allows you to enjoy the sliders again without losing their delightful taste!
Can I freeze Chicken & Waffle Sliders?
Very! To freeze, wrap each assembled slider tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
How can I prevent the coating from becoming soggy when using leftovers?
To keep your chicken coating crispy, avoid storing the assembled sliders; instead, store the chicken and waffles separately. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken in an air fryer or oven for that fresh-from-the-fryer crunch!
Can these sliders be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure your mini waffles are gluten-free as well. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness of your Chicken & Waffle Sliders without compromising flavor or texture.
Savory Chicken & Waffle Sliders: Your New Comfort Food Obsession
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the dry mix by whisking together flour, cornmeal, powdered sugar, baking powder, and baking soda in a separate bowl.
- Heat 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Remove chicken from marinade, dredge in the dry mix, ensuring a full coating.
- Fry chicken in hot oil for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Toast mini waffles until crispy.
- Assemble sliders by placing fried chicken atop a waffle, drizzling with syrup, and topping with another waffle.