Name: Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 6 chicken thighs; 2 cups buttermilk; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon hot sauce or pickle juice; 1 tablespoon Kosher salt; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 2 teaspoons paprika; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Vegetable oil for frying (about 4 cups to fill 2 inches in pan); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon Kosher salt; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 2 teaspoons paprika; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 cups buttermilk; 2 eggs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup real maple syrup; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

There’s nothing quite like the perfect balance of savory and sweet, and that’s exactly what this Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe delivers. Imagine biting into golden, spiced fried chicken paired with fluffy buttermilk waffles drizzled in warm cinnamon maple syrup—it’s Southern comfort food at its finest!

The image shows a white plate with a single golden-brown waffle at the bottom, having a crisp texture and deep grid pattern. On top of the waffle, there are two large pieces of fried chicken with a crunchy, textured coating that is shiny with a sweet syrup drizzled over it, creating a glossy finish. The syrup pools slightly around the base of the waffle. In the background, there is another white plate with a similar waffle and fried chicken, and small bottles of hot sauce are visible, placed on a blue and gray checkered cloth on a white marbled surface. The whole scene is brightly lit and clear. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I remember the first time I made this dish—it instantly became a weekend favorite at my house. The crispy crust on the chicken combined with the tender, airy waffles is like a flavor hug. Plus, the cinnamon maple syrup adds just the right touch of sweetness to make every bite memorable.

Perfectly Crispy Chicken: Marinating in a spiced buttermilk brine makes the chicken unbelievably tender and flavorful.
Fluffy Buttermilk Waffles: Light, airy waffles that soak up syrup and complement the chicken perfectly.
Warm Cinnamon Maple Syrup: A comforting drizzle that ties the dish together with a sweet and spicy note.
Simple Technique: With clear steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip this up any day of the week.

Ingredients & Why They Work

One of my favorite things about this crispy fried chicken and waffles recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet they come together for an incredible taste experience. When shopping, look for fresh chicken thighs with skin on for maximum crispiness, and don’t skip the buttermilk—it’s key to that tender, juicy chicken you crave.

Flat lay of fresh raw chicken thighs with skin, two whole uncracked brown eggs, a small white bowl of creamy buttermilk, a small white bowl of golden vegetable oil, a small white bowl filled with pale all-purpose flour, a small white bowl of pale cornstarch powder, a small white bowl of vibrant red paprika powder, a small white bowl of coarse kosher salt, a small white bowl of granulated white sugar, a small white bowl of garlic powder, a small white bowl of onion powder, a small white bowl of black pepper, a small white bowl of melted butter with golden-yellow color, a small white bowl of rich amber maple syrup, and a small white bowl of ground cinnamon—all arranged symmetrically on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Chicken thighs: Perfect for frying due to their balance of meat and fat, which stays juicy under the crispy coating.
Buttermilk: Essential for marinating; its acidity tenderizes the chicken and adds subtle tang.
Egg: Helps bind the brine and coating for maximum flavor absorption and crust adherence.
Hot sauce or pickle juice: Adds a gentle kick and depth to the marinade.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors throughout the chicken, coating, and waffles.
Garlic powder & onion powder: Staple seasoning duo bringing savory warmth without overpowering.
Paprika: Adds mild smokiness and beautiful color to both the brine and flour coating.
Black pepper: For balanced heat and spice in every bite.
Vegetable oil: The frying medium that ensures the chicken crisps to golden perfection when heated to 350°F.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of the crunchy coating and the waffles’ structure.
Cornstarch: Added to the flour coating for an extra crispy crust.
Baking powder: Makes waffles rise into light, fluffy clouds of deliciousness.
Sugar: Sweetens the waffles just enough to balance the savory chicken.
Unsalted butter: Melted into the waffles batter and cinnamon syrup for rich flavor.
Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and sweetness to the waffles and syrup.
Real maple syrup: For that authentic sweet drizzle infused with cinnamon for a lovely aromatic finish.
Ground cinnamon: Added to syrup for cozy, spicy notes that elevate the entire dish.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

The beauty of this Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe is how easily you can tailor it to your tastes. Whether you want to spice things up or add a fun twist, there’s plenty of room to get creative and make this classic your own.

Spicy Delight: I love adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the flour coating for an extra kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cinnamon maple syrup.
Cheesy Waffles: Stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the waffle batter for a savory surprise that balances wonderfully with the fried chicken.
Sweet Treat: For a dessert-like twist, toss chocolate chips into the waffle batter. It’s a fun variation especially popular with kids!
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs while still enjoying all the crispy goodness.
Herb-Infused Oil: Try frying the chicken in oil infused with fresh rosemary or thyme for a subtle herbal aroma that elevates the dish.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe

A white plate sits on a white marbled surface, holding a golden waffle as the base layer with its grid texture visible. On top of the waffle, there are two large pieces of fried chicken with a crispy, dark golden-brown crust, glazed with a shiny brown syrup that drips over the edges onto the plate. The syrup adds a glossy, sticky texture that contrasts with the crunchy chicken skin and soft waffle beneath. In the blurred background, a bottle of hot sauce adds a pop of red color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken to Tender Perfection

Start by mixing together the buttermilk, egg, hot sauce (or pickle juice), Kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper in a large bowl. This flavorful brine does more than just season the chicken—it tenderizes it as well. Submerge the chicken thighs completely, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This resting time is key for juicy, tender chicken with rich flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Flavor-Packed Flour Coating

While the chicken marinates, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, extra Kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper in a large brown paper or freezer bag. This seasoning blend gives your crust its signature crispy texture and savory depth. Using a bag makes coating the chicken quick and mess-free—just add pieces a few at a time and shake vigorously to coat every inch.

Step 3: Heat the Oil and Fry with Care

Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep frying pan and heat it over medium until it reaches 350°F. Use a thermometer to monitor the temp—the right heat is crucial to get a golden, crunchy crust without burning or undercooking the chicken. Fry 3 to 4 pieces at a time (don’t overcrowd!), cooking bone-in thighs for 10 minutes per side, or boneless for 6-7 minutes each side. When the internal temperature hits 165°F and the crust is deep golden, your chicken is perfectly cooked. Drain on paper towels and let rest briefly.

Step 4: Whip Up Light & Fluffy Buttermilk Waffles

While the chicken rests, mix sugar, eggs, vanilla, buttermilk, and melted butter together until smooth. Then gently fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt—remember, don’t overmix to keep waffles tender and airy. Preheat your waffle iron and spray it with nonstick spray before adding about ¾ cup batter for each waffle. Cook until golden and cooked through. I like to keep them warm in a low oven until ready to plate.

Step 5: Make the Warm Cinnamon Maple Syrup

In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the maple syrup, butter, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Stir occasionally until the butter melts and the syrup is warm and fragrant. This cozy drizzle is what ties the sweet and savory elements together, making it irresistible.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve Immediately

Stack the crispy fried chicken thighs on top of the warm, fluffy waffles. Drizzle generously with the cinnamon maple syrup to soak in every delightful bite. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of textures and flavors—the crispy crust, tender chicken, soft waffles, and that aromatic syrup. It’s Southern comfort food at its finest!

Top Tip

Mastering the Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe comes down to a few key details that really elevate the final dish. These tips come straight from my kitchen trials, so you can skip the pitfalls and enjoy perfect results!

Marinating Timing: Let the chicken soak in the spiced buttermilk brine for at least an hour — this step tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor, making all the difference.
Oil Temperature Control: Keep that frying oil steady at 350°F. If it’s too hot, the crust burns before the inside cooks; too cool, and the chicken soaks up oil and becomes greasy.
Flour Coating Technique: Shake the chicken vigorously in the seasoned flour bag to get an even, thick crust. This creates that signature crunch everyone loves!
Rest Before Cooking: Always bring the chicken to room temperature before frying — frying cold chicken leads to uneven cooking and a soggy crust.

How to Serve Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe

The first image shows raw chicken pieces soaking in a creamy light orange batter inside a clear bowl. The second image has the same chicken pieces placed on a white plate filled with a layer of white flour, with the chicken coated in the flour. The third image shows two chicken pieces frying in hot oil in a black pan, bubbling and turning golden brown. The fourth image displays a golden brown waffle with a crispy texture, divided into four sections, in a black waffle maker. The background for all images is a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Add a fresh pop of color and flavor with garnishes like thinly sliced scallions or chives, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, or even pickled jalapeños for a subtle kick. A dusting of powdered sugar on the waffles adds a pretty, sweet touch too.

Side Dishes

For a well-rounded Southern feast, serve your chicken and waffles with creamy coleslaw, tangy pickled vegetables, or baked beans. A crisp green salad or some roasted seasonal veggies help balance the richness beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover fried chicken and waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. For best texture, reheat promptly and avoid long storage to preserve that crispy crust.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked fried chicken and waffles separately. Wrap each item tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in freezer-friendly bags or containers. They’ll keep their quality for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To revive that crunch, reheat fried chicken in a 350°F oven on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes until heated through. Warm waffles similarly or toast them lightly in a toaster or oven. Reheat the cinnamon maple syrup gently on the stove or microwave until warm before drizzling.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in thighs are fantastic and even more flavorful, but do allow about 10 minutes per side when frying to ensure they cook all the way through to 165°F.

How important is the marinating time?

Marinating for at least 1 hour is key for tender, juicy chicken. The buttermilk and spices break down the meat fibers and pack in flavor. Overnight marinating is even better if you have time!

Can I make the waffles gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour in the waffles with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be mindful that texture and crispness may vary slightly.

How do I get the waffles extra fluffy?

Mix the waffle batter just until combined; overmixing can make waffles dense. Also, using fresh baking powder and properly heated waffle iron helps achieve that perfect fluffy texture.

Final Thoughts

Nothing quite says comfort like this Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe — a nostalgic Southern classic that marries savory, crunchy chicken with sweet, fluffy waffles and warm cinnamon maple syrup. Whether you're serving it for a special brunch or a cozy dinner, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Give yourself the joy of slow-cooked flavor with quick-fried crispiness and savor every bite. Happy cooking!