Chicken and Waffles

Chicken and Waffles is a delicious and indulgent combination of savory and sweet flavors that has become a popular dish across America. The origins of this meal are somewhat debated, but whether it’s considered Southern comfort food or a nod to soul food traditions, chicken and waffles is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s loved by many.

History and Origins

The pairing of crispy fried chicken and golden waffles may seem unusual at first glance, but it’s a long-standing favorite in American cuisine. The origin of this dish is often credited to the African American community, with roots that trace back to the early 20th century. While the dish may have earlier influences from Pennsylvania Dutch cooking (where savory meat was served with waffles), the modern version of chicken and waffles became popularized in Harlem, New York.

In the 1930s, a restaurant called Wells Supper Club in Harlem was famous for serving chicken and waffles to jazz musicians and club-goers in the late hours of the night. The combination provided the best of both worlds: hearty fried chicken for dinner and fluffy waffles for breakfast. Since then, it has spread throughout the country, with variations appearing on menus from diners to upscale restaurants.

Classic Ingredients for Chicken and Waffles

To make the perfect chicken and waffles, you need a balance between crispy, juicy fried chicken and light, buttery waffles. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Fried Chicken:

• Chicken Pieces: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks are typically used, but boneless fried chicken tenders also work well.
• Buttermilk: For marinating the chicken, which makes it tender and flavorful.
• Flour: For dredging the chicken before frying.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
• Oil: For frying, usually vegetable oil or peanut oil.

For the Waffles:

• Flour: All-purpose flour is the base for fluffy waffles.
• Baking Powder: For leavening, to give the waffles their light, airy texture.
• Eggs: Provide structure and richness.
• Milk or Buttermilk: Adds moisture to the batter.
• Butter: Melted butter adds richness to the waffle batter.
• Sugar: Just a little for sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: For flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken and Waffles

Fried Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs (or any preferred chicken pieces)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, in the refrigerator. This step helps tenderize the chicken and enhances the flavor.
2. Prepare the Seasoned Flour: In a separate large bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
3. Dredge the Chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Coat each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring that every part of the chicken is covered. Shake off any excess flour.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 12-15 minutes per side, depending on the size of the chicken, until the outside is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack to drain and cool slightly.

Waffles

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ¾ cups milk or buttermilk
• ½ cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Waffle Iron: Before making the waffle batter, plug in your waffle iron and let it preheat according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if the batter has a few lumps.
5. Cook the Waffles: Grease the preheated waffle iron with a little cooking spray or butter. Pour the batter into the waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually for 3-5 minutes or until golden and crispy on the outside.
6. Keep Waffles Warm: If you’re making multiple waffles, you can keep them warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you finish cooking the rest.

Serving Chicken and Waffles

To serve, place a warm waffle on a plate and top it with a piece of crispy fried chicken. Many people enjoy drizzling the entire dish with maple syrup, which adds a delightful sweetness to the savory chicken. For an extra layer of flavor, you can serve it with a dollop of butter, hot sauce, or even honey butter. Some variations also include a dusting of powdered sugar over the top.

Variations and Add-ons

• Spicy Chicken: Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken for a spicy kick.
• Cheddar Waffles: Mix shredded cheddar cheese into the waffle batter for a savory twist.
• Southern Gravy: Serve the dish with a side of country-style gravy for a richer and more decadent version.
• Bacon: Some people add crispy bacon either on the side or crumbled over the chicken for an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken and waffles is a fun and versatile dish that marries two very different foods—crispy fried chicken and soft, sweet waffles. While it might seem like an odd pairing at first, the combination of savory and sweet flavors works incredibly well, creating a meal that is both comforting and flavorful. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, chicken and waffles is a dish that’s bound to please any crowd.