
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of crispy, golden-brown fried chicken sitting atop a warm, fluffy waffle. It’s the kind of meal that brings a smile before you even take the first bite. The crunch of perfectly seasoned chicken, the light sweetness of the waffle, and that drizzle of maple syrup tying it all together—every element works in harmony. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and honestly, a little nostalgic. Whether I’m enjoying it at a restaurant or making it for my family at home, this dish always feels like a treat. My mother in-law even calls it a Southern-style happiness on a plate.
Difficulty Level: moderate
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 2 cups cooked waffles
- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, combine the buttermilk and eggs.
- Dip each chicken thigh into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat with the flour mixture. Set aside on a wire rack.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken thighs for about 12-15 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
- While the chicken is frying, prepare the waffles according to your favorite recipe or package instructions.
- To serve, place a waffle on each plate, top with a fried chicken thigh, and drizzle generously with maple syrup.
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