Mini Chicken and Waffles Recipe

There’s something irresistibly fun about serving up a dish like Mini Chicken and Waffles Recipe. Picture a cozy gathering where everyone is munching on these delightful bites, and you can’t help but smile. I fondly remember the first time I saw these unique creations at a friend’s barbecue. They brought a playful twist to the classic chicken and waffles, transforming the meal into finger food that everyone could enjoy. The combination of crispy, juicy fried chicken nestled between warm, fluffy waffles is simply divine. This dish is not just about flavor; it’s about creating memories with loved ones over a meal that sparks joy and laughter.

Essential Ingredients for Mini Chicken and Waffles Recipe

The key to a successful Mini Chicken and Waffles Recipe lies in its simple yet effective ingredients. Using fresh and quality components elevates the dish, ensuring every bite is delicious. The combination of crispy fried chicken with the soft, sweet waffles is a match made in culinary heaven.

• 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour – This serves as the base for your waffle batter, providing structure and texture.
• ½ cup powdered sugar – Adds sweetness to the batter, making the waffles delightful and light.
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda – Helps the waffles rise and become fluffy.
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder – Works alongside baking soda for the perfect rise.
• 2 cups cultured low-fat buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tang to the batter.
• ¼ cup 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Provides richness and moisture to the waffle batter.
• 3 large egg whites – They help the batter achieve an airy texture.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – A touch of sweetness and aroma.
• Canola Oil for frying – Necessary for achieving the perfect crispy chicken.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – For seasoning the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds a slight kick to the chicken.
• 4-6 chicken breast tenders, skinless & boneless – The main protein, perfect for frying.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour – Used for coating the chicken before frying.
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder – A secret ingredient that boosts flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon ground garlic or garlic powder – For a touch of savory depth.
• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika – Adds color and a hint of sweetness.
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper – Gives a mild heat to the chicken.
• ¾ cup cold soda water – Helps keep the batter light and crispy.
• Maple syrup for dipping or drizzling – The sweet finishing touch for your dish.

How to Prepare Mini Chicken and Waffles Recipe

Preparing the Mini Chicken and Waffles Recipe is a joyous experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Follow along as we create this dish step-by-step, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor!

1. Set your waffle iron to MEDIUM temperature. Let it preheat while you prepare the batter. A properly heated waffle iron ensures that your waffles cook evenly and get that perfect golden color.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup powdered sugar, ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, ¾ teaspoon baking soda, and ¾ teaspoon baking powder. Mixing the dry ingredients thoroughly helps to achieve a consistent batter.
3. Next, add in 2 cups cultured low-fat buttermilk, ¼ cup melted unsalted butter, 3 large egg whites, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract to the bowl. Whisk everything together until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps, as this will affect the texture of your waffles.
4. Once your batter is well mixed, monitor the waffle iron. It’s ready when the indicator light shows a consistent red, signaling it’s hot enough for cooking.
5. For a traditional 9-inch waffle maker, use about half of the batter for each waffle. Follow the specific instructions for your iron. Close the lid and cook until the waffle is golden brown and still steaming. It usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining batter, placing each cooked waffle on a plate. As they come off the iron, the waffles should be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
7. Prepare for frying by placing a cooling rack over a baking sheet. This will catch any excess oil from the chicken.
8. In a heavy skillet, heat 2 cups of oil to 375°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy to avoid under or overcooked chicken. The oil should be shimmering, signaling it’s hot enough for frying.
9. Season the chicken tenders on both sides with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Seasoning is crucial for flavor; don’t skip this step!
10. In a medium dish, whisk together ½ cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon mustard powder, ¼ teaspoon ground garlic, ½ teaspoon sweet paprika, and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper. This blend will be the coating for your chicken.
11. Dredge each seasoned chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow any excess to drip off before frying. This process will create a delicious crust.
12. Carefully lower the chicken into the hot oil, frying until golden brown on one side, then flip using tongs. Fry on the other side until it’s also golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should read 160°F. Remember, the chicken will continue cooking once removed from the heat.
13. Transfer the chicken to the cooling rack to drain away excess oil. This helps maintain that nice crispy texture.
14. While the chicken cools, cut each cooked waffle square into fourths. Also, cut each chicken tender into fourths, making them easier to assemble.
15. Now it’s time to assemble! Skewer one piece of chicken between two mini waffle squares onto an appetizer skewer. This presentation is not just fun; it makes for easy serving!
16. Serve immediately with a side of maple syrup for dipping or drizzled over the chicken waffle appetizers. Enjoy every bite of this delightful creation!

Making Adjustments

There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Here are some tips to help you make the Mini Chicken and Waffles Recipe your own.

• Storage: Keep leftover waffles and chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
• Freezing: Waffles can be frozen for up to a month. Individually wrap each waffle in plastic, then store in a freezer bag.
• Pairing: Try serving these mini delights with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Spice it up: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the chicken coating for a flavor boost.
• Try different syrups: Maple syrup is great, but consider using fruit-based syrups for a fun twist!

How to Serve Mini Chicken and Waffles Recipe

When it comes to serving the Mini Chicken and Waffles Recipe, presentation and occasion play important roles. Here’s how to do it right:

• Perfect for brunch: These mini bites are exceptional for brunch gatherings, adding a fun twist to the menu.
• Game day treat: Serve them as an appetizer during game day or casual get-togethers.
• Kid-friendly: The mini size makes them ideal for children’s parties. They are easy to handle and fun to eat.
• Garnish options: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for added color and flavor. A sprinkle of parsley or chives can elevate the presentation.
• Serving style: Present them on a large platter with small bowls of syrup for dipping to encourage sharing.
• Seasonal events: They are also great for seasonal festivities, making them a perfect addition to holiday celebrations.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Mini Chicken and Waffles Recipe perfectly combines comfort and fun, creating a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its crispy chicken and fluffy waffles, it’s a delightful treat for any occasion. So why not give it a try? You’ll love the process of making these mini bites just as much as the experience of enjoying them together with loved ones!

Mini Chicken and Waffles Recipe

The ultimate comfort food, Mini Chicken and Waffles Recipe blends crispy fried chicken with fluffy waffles for a delightful treat. Perfect for brunch or as a fun appetizer, this easy weeknight dinner delivers flavor and joy in every bite. You'll want to make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Appetizers, Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

• 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• 2 cups cultured low-fat buttermilk
• ¼ cup 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large egg whites
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Canola Oil for frying
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 4-6 chicken breast tenders, skinless & boneless
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground garlic or garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ¾ cup cold soda water Note: The cold soda water keeps the batter light and crispy.
• Maple syrup for dipping or drizzling

Instructions

 

• Set waffle iron to MEDIUM temperature. Let it preheat while you prepare the batter. A properly heated waffle iron ensures that your waffles cook evenly and get that perfect golden color.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup powdered sugar, ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, ¾ teaspoon baking soda, and ¾ teaspoon baking powder. Mixing the dry ingredients thoroughly helps to achieve a consistent batter.
• Next, add in 2 cups cultured low-fat buttermilk, ¼ cup melted unsalted butter, 3 large egg whites, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract to the bowl. Whisk everything together until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps, as this will affect the texture of your waffles.
• Once your batter is well mixed, monitor the waffle iron. It’s ready when the indicator light shows a consistent red, signaling it’s hot enough for cooking.
• For a traditional 9-inch waffle maker, use about half of the batter for each waffle. Follow the specific instructions for your iron. Close the lid and cook until the waffle is golden brown and still steaming. It usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes.
• Repeat the process with the remaining batter, placing each cooked waffle on a plate. As they come off the iron, the waffles should be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
• Prepare for frying by placing a cooling rack over a baking sheet. This will catch any excess oil from the chicken.
• In a heavy skillet, heat 2 cups of oil to 375°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy to avoid under or overcooked chicken. The oil should be shimmering, signaling it’s hot enough for frying.
• Season the chicken tenders on both sides with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Seasoning is crucial for flavor; don’t skip this step!
• In a medium dish, whisk together ½ cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon mustard powder, ¼ teaspoon ground garlic, ½ teaspoon sweet paprika, and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper. This blend will be the coating for your chicken.
• Dredge each seasoned chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow any excess to drip off before frying. This process will create a delicious crust.
• Carefully lower the chicken into the hot oil, frying until golden brown on one side, then flip using tongs. Fry on the other side until it’s also golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should read 160°F. Remember, the chicken will continue cooking once removed from the heat.
• Transfer the chicken to the cooling rack to drain away excess oil. This helps maintain that nice crispy texture.
• While the chicken cools, cut each cooked waffle square into fourths. Also, cut each chicken tender into fourths, making them easier to assemble.
• Now it’s time to assemble! Skewer one piece of chicken between two mini waffle squares onto an appetizer skewer. This presentation is not just fun; it makes for easy serving!
• Serve immediately with a side of maple syrup for dipping or drizzled over the chicken waffle appetizers. Enjoy every bite of this delightful creation!

Notes

• Tip 1: Keep leftover waffles and chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
• Tip 2: Waffles can be frozen for up to a month. Individually wrap each waffle in plastic, then store in a freezer bag.
• Tip 3: Try serving these mini delights with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Tip 4: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the chicken coating for a flavor boost.
• Tip 5: Maple syrup is great, but consider using fruit-based syrups for a fun twist!

Keyword Chicken and Waffles recipe, Easy Chicken Waffles, Fun Party Appetizer, Mini Chicken and Waffles

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Meet Eva Sterling

I have a restless palate and I love that our blog covers such a wide range of food. I am always excited to cook something we haven’t tried before. I jump into every cooking session with enthusiasm, ready to chop, sauté, bake, or grill. I love the collaborative energy of our kitchen we all learn from each other, and that makes every dish we publish better.