Delicious Mini Fried Chicken Waffles for Brunch

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Mini Fried Chicken Waffles are a delightful Southern-inspired dish that brings together the best of both worlds: crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles. This amazing recipe features tender chicken marinated in buttermilk, coated in a seasoned batter, and fried to golden perfection. When paired with warm, mini waffles, topped with a maple honey butter, honey drizzle, and fresh chives, it creates an irresistible culinary experience perfect for brunch, lunch, or an exciting dinner. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Mini Fried Chicken Waffles

There are countless reasons to adore these Mini Fried Chicken Waffles. First, they offer a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them an ideal choice for any meal. If you’re searching for bite-sized chicken and waffles, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. They are not only cute and fun to eat, but they also serve as a fantastic party food or appetizer. Plus, they can easily be customized with your favorite sauces or toppings, making them versatile.

These small chicken and waffle bites are quick to prepare, ensuring you won’t spend all day in the kitchen. Whether you choose to serve them for breakfast or as a delightful brunch option, they are bound to impress your family and friends. With roots in Southern cuisine, this dish celebrates traditional flavors with a modern twist.

Ingredients for Mini Fried Chicken Waffles

Gather these items:

2 large boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1 1/2 inch (4 centimeter) pieces
2 cups (470 milliliters) buttermilk
1/4 cup (60 grams) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
1 1/2 tablespoons (22 milliliters) honey
1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) maple syrup
Pinch salt
1 cup (125 grams) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (70 grams) cornstarch
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 cups (470 milliliters) vegetable oil
30 mini waffles (frozen or homemade)
Honey, for drizzling
Fresh chives, for garnish

How to Make Mini Fried Chicken Waffles Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, cover the chicken pieces with buttermilk, stirring to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 6 hours or overnight to tenderize and infuse flavor.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened butter, honey, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use, bringing it to room temperature before serving.
Step 3: In a wide bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, onion powder, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to integrate all the spices evenly into the flour mixture.
Step 4: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or saucepan and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches the right temperature for frying, around 350°F (175°C).
Step 5: Remove chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture. Carefully add a few pieces to the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for about 3-5 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove and place on a towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces.
Step 6: While frying the chicken, preheat your oven to 375˚F (190˚C). Arrange the mini waffles on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until heated through and toasted.
Step 7: Spread a small amount of the prepared maple honey butter on each warm waffle. Top with a piece of the fried chicken, drizzle with additional honey, and garnish with fresh chives. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Mini Fried Chicken Waffles

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for best flavor.
Adjust seasoning to your taste preference.
Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.
Consider making homemade chicken and waffle bites for a fresher taste.
For an added kick, try using cayenne pepper in the batter.

Best Ways to Serve Mini Fried Chicken Waffles

These Miniature Fried Chicken Waffles are perfect for brunch or as a fun appetizer for parties. You can serve them with a variety of sauces, such as spicy hot sauce or a tangy barbecue sauce, alongside traditional maple syrup. For a unique twist, try adding a dollop of whipped cream or flavored syrups to create a sweet and savory combination. They also make excellent chicken waffle sliders when served in sandwiches with your favorite toppings.

How to Store and Reheat Mini Fried Chicken Waffles

To store any leftover delicious mini fried chicken and waffles, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place the waffles in a toaster or oven until warmed through, and fry the chicken again briefly to restore its crispiness. This meal prepping tip ensures you can enjoy your mini chicken waffles for brunch even on busy days!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mini Fried Chicken Waffles

What’s the secret to perfect Mini Fried Chicken Waffles?

The secret lies in the marination process! Marinating the chicken in buttermilk overnight ensures it stays tender and flavorful. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of crispy outside and juicy inside.

Can I make Mini Fried Chicken Waffles ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and waffles in advance! Simply fry the chicken and toast the waffles, then store them separately in the fridge. Reheat them just before serving for the best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mini Fried Chicken Waffles?

To avoid mistakes, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture. Don’t overcrowd the frying pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.

Variations of Mini Fried Chicken Waffles You Can Try

Get creative with your miniature southern chicken waffles by experimenting with different marinades or batters. For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour and baking the chicken instead of frying. You can also add spices like cayenne or jalapeños for a spicy kick. For dessert-style versions, try adding chocolate chips to your waffle batter!

For more delicious recipes, check out Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese or Irresistible Thai Red Curry Kabobs. If you’re interested in more brunch ideas, consider Creamy Sausage Potato Chowder for a hearty option!