Welcome to our fun and delicious meals section! Today, we’re sharing a delightful recipe for Chicken and Waffle Sliders. This dish combines crispy fried chicken with fluffy mini waffles, drizzled with sweet maple syrup, making it perfect for brunch, parties, or a special treat. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 12 mini waffles (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice Chicken: Slice each chicken breast into 6 small pieces, making a total of 12 pieces.
- Marinate in Buttermilk: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for best results.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
- Heat Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Bread Chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, coating each piece thoroughly.
- Fry Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
- Prepare Waffles: If using store-bought mini waffles, toast them according to the package instructions. If using homemade waffles, prepare them in a mini waffle maker.
- Assemble Sliders: Place a piece of fried chicken on top of a mini waffle. Drizzle with a bit of maple syrup. Top with another mini waffle to form a slider.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Sprinkle the sliders with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the chicken and waffle sliders immediately while they are warm and crispy. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Chicken: For even cooking, make sure the chicken pieces are roughly the same size.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy coating. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb more oil and become greasy.
- Waffles: You can use frozen mini waffles, or make your own using a mini waffle maker. Homemade waffles can add a special touch to the dish.
Variations
Spicy Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Add extra cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for a spicier version.
Sweet and Savory Sliders
Add a slice of cheddar cheese on top of the chicken before placing the top waffle for a delicious sweet and savory combination.
Maple Bacon Sliders
Add a slice of cooked bacon to each slider along with the maple syrup for an extra layer of flavor.
Honey Butter Sliders
Mix 1/4 cup of softened butter with 2 tablespoons of honey and spread on the waffles before assembling the sliders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble the sliders just before serving to keep the chicken crispy and the waffles fresh. However, you can prepare the chicken and waffles separately in advance and reheat them before assembling.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer to maintain its crispiness, and toast the waffles before reassembling the sliders.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken pieces in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning.
What can I serve with these sliders?
These sliders are delicious on their own but can also be served with a side of coleslaw, fruit salad, or sweet potato fries.
Can I use different types of syrup?
Yes, you can use different types of syrup such as honey, agave nectar, or flavored syrups to drizzle over the sliders.
These Chicken and Waffle Sliders are a fun and delicious twist on a classic dish. With crispy fried chicken, fluffy mini waffles, and sweet maple syrup, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful sliders with your family and friends!
