The first time I tasted Chicken and Waffle Sliders, it felt like a culinary hug—a delightful fusion of crispy chicken nestled between soft, golden waffles, all kissed with sweet maple syrup. This dish not only highlights the best of American comfort food but also transforms any meal into a celebration. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or simply craving something special, these sliders are a crowd-pleaser with their fast prep and fun assembly options. Plus, you can easily customize them with seasonal flavors or a spicy twist to keep things exciting. Ready to dive into a recipe that’s as playful as it is delicious? Let’s transform your next gathering into a mouthwatering masterpiece!
Why Are Chicken and Waffle Sliders Amazing?
Flavor Explosion: This dish combines savory crispy chicken with sweet, fluffy waffles, creating a mouthwatering harmony that’s irresistible.
Fast and Fun: Perfect for quick prep, these sliders are ideal for brunches or last-minute gatherings, ensuring no one leaves hungry!
Customization Galore: From spicy versions to cheesy waffles or even bacon-infused layers, there’s a twist for everyone’s palate.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether you’re serving kids or adults, these sliders guarantee smiles and satisfied appetites—everyone loves a good comfort food mashup!
Explore more delicious ideas like Buffalo Chicken Sliders or Flavor Packed Sandwich for your next culinary adventure!
Chicken and Waffle Slider Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Provide the main protein; using chicken tenders helps speed up prep time.
• Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken and adds moisture; Greek yogurt mixed with milk is a great alternative.
• Hot Sauce (optional) – Adds a spicy kick to the chicken marinade; skip if you prefer a milder flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Coats the chicken for that perfect crispiness; for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour instead.
• Paprika, Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper – This seasoning mix elevates flavor; feel free to adjust the spices per your taste preferences.
• Vegetable Oil – Used for frying; its high smoke point ensures a perfectly crispy chicken. Other neutral oils can substitute.
For the Waffles
• Sugar – Adds sweetness to the waffles; if you want less sugar, you can simply reduce the amount.
• Baking Powder – Provides rise for fluffy waffles; don’t skip this essential leavening agent!
• Salt – Enhances flavor in the batter; a crucial step for well-balanced taste.
• Whole Milk – Hydrates the waffle batter; almond or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
• Large Eggs – Bind the waffle ingredients together; alternatives like flax eggs might change the texture slightly.
• Unsalted Butter – Enhances flavor in waffles; consider using applesauce for a lower-fat variation.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic sweetness; swap it for almond extract if you prefer a different flavor.
For Assembling
• Pure Maple Syrup – The perfect sweet topping for your sliders; honey is a tasty alternative if you’re out of syrup.
• Fresh Chives (optional) – Adds a pop of color and freshness; substitute with green onions if needed.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re just steps away from creating delightful Chicken and Waffle Sliders that will impress everyone at your brunch table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk with a splash of hot sauce for optional spice. Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders into the mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate the chicken for at least 20 minutes or ideally overnight to tenderize and infuse flavor, making your Chicken and Waffle Sliders extra juicy.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the chicken marinates, prepare the coating by mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper in a shallow dish. This seasoned mix will create a crunchy exterior for your fried chicken. Set this aside as you’ll need it during the frying step.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
In a deep, heavy-bottomed skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully coat the marinated chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Fry the chicken in batches for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Drain the crispy chicken on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 4: Prepare the Waffle Batter
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, mix 1 cup of whole milk, 2 large eggs, 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Combine the wet and dry ingredients gently without overmixing to maintain a fluffy texture for your waffle batter.
Step 5: Cook the Waffles
Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once hot, lightly grease it with non-stick spray or brush with melted butter. Spoon enough batter into the waffle iron to fill it without overflowing, and close the lid. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy. Continue this process until all the batter is used.
Step 6: Assemble the Sliders
To assemble your Chicken and Waffle Sliders, take one mini waffle as the base and layer a piece of crispy chicken on top. Drizzle generously with pure maple syrup and add another waffle on top to complete the slider. For an extra touch, you can melt a little butter over the top waffle and sprinkle with fresh chives before securing the assembly with a toothpick.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Fridge: Store any leftover Chicken and Waffle Sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain softness, avoid stacking them too tightly.
Freezer: Individually freeze the chicken and waffles separately for up to 1 month. Wrap each waffle in plastic wrap and seal the chicken in freezer-safe bags for optimal freshness.
Reheating Waffles: To reheat frozen waffles, place them directly in a toaster until warm and crispy. This keeps their texture intact better than the microwave.
Reheating Chicken: Reheat chicken pieces in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Enjoy your Chicken and Waffle Sliders fresh and delicious!
Expert Tips for Chicken and Waffle Sliders
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Temperature Check: Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) before frying to avoid greasy chicken and maintain crispiness.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry chicken pieces in small batches to ensure even cooking; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.
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Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken overnight in buttermilk and hot sauce; this elevates your Chicken and Waffle Sliders to another level.
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Perfect Waffle Texture: Combine wet and dry ingredients gently in the waffle batter—overmixing can cause tough waffles. You want them fluffy!
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Instant Assembly: Serve sliders immediately after assembly for the best texture—crispy waffles and warm chicken make for the ultimate experience!
Chicken and Waffle Sliders Variations
Feel free to play with flavors and textures to make these sliders your own—each bite can be a delightful surprise!
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Spicy Chicken: Add cayenne pepper to both the chicken coating and waffle batter for an extra kick that will wake up your taste buds. Perfect for those who crave heat!
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Cheddar Waffles: Mix shredded cheddar cheese into the waffle batter for a savory twist. The cheese melts beautifully as the waffles cook, adding a rich and tangy surprise.
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Bacon Waffles: Fold crumbled bacon into the waffle batter or add crispy bacon slices between the chicken and waffles. This addition brings a beautiful depth of flavor and crunch.
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Pumpkin Spice Waffles: For a seasonal flair, incorporate pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice into your waffle mix. Spread apple butter between the sliders for a delightful fall-inspired treat.
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Herbed Waffles: Blend fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, into the waffle batter to introduce an aromatic and savory element. These pair beautifully with roasted garlic chicken.
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Thai-inspired Sliders: Use a marinade of coconut milk, ginger, and Thai red curry paste for the chicken. Top with a drizzle of sriracha and a sprinkle of cilantro for a bold twist.
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Cinnamon Waffles: Add ground cinnamon and a touch of nutmeg to the waffle batter for a warm, cozy flavor. Serve with a maple-butter glaze for a sweet finish.
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with crispy fried cauliflower or portobello mushrooms. This plant-based option retains the deliciousness while being suitable for vegetarians.
For more delicious ideas and preparation techniques, don’t forget to check out Crockpot Chicken Gravy or Chicken and Vegetables Skillet for more comforting meals that the whole family will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken and Waffle Sliders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Additionally, the waffles can be cooked and stored in the freezer for up to a month—just reheat them in a toaster for that freshly made taste. To maintain quality, store the fried chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in a hot oven and assemble with the waffles, drizzling them with maple syrup for a delicious, hassle-free meal!
What to Serve with Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Pair your delightful sliders with a variety of sides and drinks to create an unforgettable meal experience.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the sliders, adding a refreshing crunch to every bite. Toss in some nuts or fruits for added flavor!
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Creamy Coleslaw: This tangy side complements the sweetness of the waffles, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sliders’ crispy texture.
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Sweet Potato Fries: These fries offer a delightful sweetness and a crispy exterior that pairs perfectly with chicken. Dip them in a spicy aioli for a gourmet touch!
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Fruit Platter: A vibrant array of seasonal fruits brings a burst of natural sweetness to the table. It’s a fresh, colorful complement to your savory sliders.
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Classic Mimosas: For a brunch gathering, bubbly mimosas bring a celebratory flair. The bright citrus notes play off the syrupy sweetness of the sliders exquisitely.
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Maple-Glazed Brussel Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with maple syrup provide a savory-sweet connection to your Chicken and Waffle Sliders, ensuring all flavors harmonize on the plate.
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Mini Fruit Parfaits: End on a sweet note with mini parfaits layered with yogurt and fresh fruit. They add a light, sweet finish to your meal balancing the richness of the sliders.
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Spicy Pickles: These bite-sized tangy treats offer a zesty contrast to the sliders, cutting through the sweetness and adding a delightful pop of flavor.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing iced beverages are a wonderful choice to cleanse the palate and keep your gathering lively, perfectly complementing the meal’s savory and sweet notes.
Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for Chicken and Waffle Sliders?
Absolutely, for Chicken and Waffle Sliders, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for their tenderness and quick cooking. If you’re looking to save time, you can use chicken tenders instead, which cook even faster!
How long can I store Chicken and Waffle Sliders in the fridge?
You can store leftover Chicken and Waffle Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them soft, be sure not to stack them too tightly, as you want to avoid squishing the waffles!
Can I freeze the individual components of Chicken and Waffle Sliders?
Yes! For freezing, individually wrap each waffle in plastic wrap and place the chicken pieces in freezer-safe bags. They can last up to 1 month in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes and pop the waffles directly in the toaster until crispy.
What if my chicken isn’t crispy after frying?
If your Chicken and Waffle Sliders aren’t crispy, it may be due to frying at a temperature that was too low. Ensure your oil reaches about 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature too much and result in steamed chicken instead of crispy.
Are Chicken and Waffle Sliders suitable for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! You can adapt the recipe to meet dietary needs. For gluten-free options, simply use gluten-free flour for the chicken coating and waffles. Dairy-free individuals can swap buttermilk for yogurt mixed with almond milk and use a plant-based milk for the batter. It’s all about making it work for you!
Delicious Chicken and Waffle Sliders for Brunch Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk with hot sauce. Coat chicken and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes or overnight.
- Mix flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish.
- Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Coat marinated chicken in flour mix and fry for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in one bowl. In another bowl, mix milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients gently.
- Preheat waffle iron, grease, and pour batter in. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Layer a crispy chicken piece on a waffle, drizzle with syrup, and top with another waffle. Optionally add butter and chives.
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