Start by mixing together the buttermilk and TABASCO Garlic Pepper Sauce in a shallow bowl. This marinade is essential for infusing the chicken with flavor. Once combined, add the chicken tenders and stir gently to coat them evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours. This step allows the flavors to meld and enhances the tenderness of the chicken.
After marinating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture. Whisk an egg into the remaining buttermilk and return the chicken to the bowl, stirring to coat again. The egg will help the breading stick better.
In a separate pie plate, combine the Panko crumbs, flour, seasoned salt, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and ground white pepper. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even coating.
Next, pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil into a cast iron pan or a Dutch oven. Heat the oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s important to have the right temperature for frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Once the oil is hot, remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk mixture and coat them in the Panko mixture. Carefully place them in the hot oil, frying for 6 to 8 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when they are golden brown and crispy.
Once cooked, remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. This step keeps your chicken crispy and not greasy.
Now, let’s make the waffles. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well mixed.
In a blender, separate the eggs and place the egg whites in first. Blend until frothy. Then add the egg yolks, vegetable oil, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Blend these ingredients until they are well combined.
Pour the blended mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make your waffles tough.
Now it’s time to cook the waffles! Follow the instructions on your waffle iron. Each waffle should come out golden brown and fluffy.
While the waffles are cooking, let’s prepare the TABASCO Maple Syrup. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted butter, and TABASCO Sauce. This will add a unique flavor that enhances the sweetness of the syrup.