These Waffle Chicken Fingers are a crispy, golden-brown masterpiece that combines the savory flavors of fried chicken with the delightful texture of waffles. The tender chicken is coated in a crispy waffle crust, offering an unexpected twist to the classic chicken tenders. Pair them with a drizzle of maple syrup for the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making every bite an indulgent experience.
For a twist on this already fabulous dish, feel free to experiment with different dipping sauces like honey mustard, spicy ranch, or a tangy barbecue sauce. The versatility of this dish makes it perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a fun weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a satisfying snack. It’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb chicken tenders
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2 cups buttermilk
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2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional)
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2 cups waffle mix (prepared according to package instructions)
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon garlic powder
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1 tablespoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Vegetable oil, for frying
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Maple syrup, for serving
Directions:
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In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken tenders to the bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).
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In a shallow dish, combine the waffle mix, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
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Heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil heats, remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk and dredge them in the waffle mix, ensuring they are fully coated.
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Carefully place the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
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Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
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Serve hot with maple syrup for dipping.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The History Behind Waffle Chicken Fingers
Though the precise origins of Waffle Chicken Fingers are unclear, it’s widely believed to be a variation of the Southern classic chicken and waffles. Chicken and waffles is a soul food staple that dates back to the 1600s in the United States, with roots in the African-American communities of the South. It was initially popularized in the 1930s at the Wells Supper Club in Harlem, where the combination of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles became a hit.
Waffle Chicken Fingers take this iconic pairing and transform it into a fun, easy-to-eat finger food. By using chicken tenders and coating them in waffle batter, the dish becomes a more convenient, hand-held version of chicken and waffles. The bite-sized pieces are perfect for dipping in syrup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce, making them an ideal choice for casual meals and entertaining.
Why Waffle Chicken Fingers are a Great Meal Choice
One of the best things about Waffle Chicken Fingers is their versatility. They are simple to prepare and can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether as a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a comforting dinner. The balance of protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the waffles makes this dish both filling and balanced. Plus, it’s a fun and flavorful option for anyone craving something a little different from the usual chicken tenders or waffles.
Another reason to love Waffle Chicken Fingers is their ability to cater to different dietary preferences. While the recipe can be made with traditional ingredients, it can also be easily adapted to accommodate gluten-free or dairy-free diets. For example, you can use gluten-free flour and waffle mix, and choose non-dairy milk to make this dish accessible to a wider audience.
Serving Waffle Chicken Fingers
Waffle Chicken Fingers are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. They’re delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and condiments. For a more traditional touch, serve them with a drizzle of maple syrup. The sweetness of the syrup complements the savory flavor of the fried chicken, creating a perfect balance.
If you want to add more variety to the dish, consider pairing it with a tangy dipping sauce. Honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even spicy buffalo sauce all work well with the crispy chicken tenders. If you’re serving them at a party, set up a dipping sauce bar where your guests can choose their favorite sauces to accompany the chicken.
For sides, Waffle Chicken Fingers can be served with a simple salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. The fresh, crisp flavors of these sides contrast nicely with the rich and savory taste of the chicken fingers. For an extra indulgent touch, you could even serve them with a side of mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries.
Creative Variations of Waffle Chicken Fingers
While the classic Waffle Chicken Fingers are already a treat, there are countless ways to customize the dish to suit your tastes. Here are a few creative variations you can try:
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Spicy Waffle Chicken Fingers: Add a kick to your chicken tenders by mixing some cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the waffle batter. You could also sprinkle some chili powder or smoked paprika over the chicken before frying for extra heat.
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Buffalo Waffle Chicken Fingers: Coat the chicken tenders in buffalo sauce after frying to give them a tangy, spicy flavor. Pair with a creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
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BBQ Waffle Chicken Fingers: For a smoky twist, brush your chicken tenders with barbecue sauce after frying. You can also mix the sauce into the waffle batter for an even more pronounced flavor.
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Vegetarian Option: If you’re not a fan of meat, try using tofu or tempeh as a substitute for chicken. Coat the tofu or tempeh in the same waffle batter and fry until crispy. Serve with a maple syrup or vegan dipping sauce for a plant-based version of this dish.
Why Waffle Chicken Fingers Are Ideal for Entertaining
Waffle Chicken Fingers are the perfect dish to serve at a party or family gathering. They’re fun, easy to make, and offer a great way to please a crowd. Their finger-food nature makes them easy to serve and eat without the need for utensils, which is always a bonus at casual get-togethers.
This dish also lends itself well to customization, so you can create a variety of dipping sauces, add different seasonings to the batter, or even serve it with a selection of sides. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a weekend brunch, or a casual dinner, Waffle Chicken Fingers will be a hit with your guests.
Conclusion
Waffle Chicken Fingers offer a delightful fusion of two beloved dishes—crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles—giving you the best of both worlds in a fun, finger-friendly format. Whether you serve them with maple syrup for a classic touch or mix up the flavors with spicy, BBQ, or buffalo variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Not only are they delicious, but they’re also versatile enough to be served as a snack, appetizer, or main course. With endless possibilities for customization and the option to serve with a variety of sides and dipping sauces, Waffle Chicken Fingers are the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love. Try them for your next meal, and experience the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and sweet flavors all in one bite.
By making this dish your own, you can create a memorable meal that will satisfy both your cravings and your guests’ appetites. So go ahead and give Waffle Chicken Fingers a try—you’re guaranteed to fall in love with this creative, mouthwatering twist on a classic favorite.