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: 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; 6 chicken thighs; Vegetable oil for frying (about 4 cups for 2 inches deep 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

Nothing beats the soul-soothing comfort of a perfectly balanced blend of savory and sweet. This Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe hits that spot every time with golden, crispy chicken paired with fluffy buttermilk waffles and a luscious cinnamon maple syrup drizzle.

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

To be honest, frying chicken and making waffles from scratch is one of my favorite kitchen adventures. The crispy edges, juicy chicken, and tender waffles bring friends and family together like nothing else.

Crispy Perfection: The chicken brine and flour coating create an irresistibly crunchy crust.
Fluffy Waffles: Made with buttermilk, these waffles are soft inside with just the right hint of tang.
Flavor Harmony: Sweet cinnamon maple syrup ties the whole dish together perfectly sweet and savory.
Versatile Meal: Great for brunch, lunch, or dinner — anytime you want to impress!

Ingredients & Why They Work

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward this Southern classic. Fresh chicken thighs and good-quality buttermilk make all the difference, while pantry spices create that signature flavor.

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

Buttermilk: It tenderizes the chicken and adds a subtle tang that makes the flavors pop.
Egg: Helps bind the brine and adds moisture for juicier chicken.
Hot sauce or pickle juice: Adds a little kick and depth to the brine’s flavor.
Kosher salt: Seasonal salt that amplifies everything without overpowering.
Garlic powder & Onion powder: Classic aromatics that enhance chicken’s savory notes.
Paprika: Adds smoky sweetness and a beautiful color to the crust.
Black pepper: Just enough bite to balance the flavors.
Chicken thighs: Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for frying with skin on.
Vegetable oil: The frying medium to get an even, crispy crust without burning.
All-purpose flour: Essential for coating the chicken and making tender waffles.
Cornstarch: Gives extra crispness to the chicken crust.
Baking powder: Helps the waffles rise nice and fluffy.
Sugar: Balances the savory notes in the waffles with a touch of sweetness.
Eggs for waffles: Provide structure and richness.
Unsalted butter: Adds moisture and flavor to the waffle batter and syrup.
Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the waffles and syrup.
Maple syrup: The star sweetener, especially when warmed and infused with cinnamon.
Ground cinnamon: Adds that cozy, fragrant note to the syrup.

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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

One of the best things about this Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe is how easy it is to customize to your taste buds. Feel free to put your own spin on it—whether that’s making it spicy, cheesy, or extra sweet, the possibilities are deliciously endless!

Spicy Kick: I love adding a bit more hot sauce or cayenne powder to the chicken brine and the flour coating for an extra fiery crunch. It really wakes up the palate and pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cinnamon maple syrup.
Cheddar Cheese Waffles: Toss in a handful of shredded sharp cheddar into the waffle batter before cooking. The savory cheese balances the crispy chicken perfectly and takes this classic to another level.
Sweet & Fruity Twist: For a brunch variation, serve with fresh sliced strawberries or blueberries on top alongside the maple syrup to brighten the plate and add a fresh contrast.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the all-purpose flour in the coating and waffles for a gluten-free blend. Just be sure it includes xanthan gum or similar for structure, and your crispy fried chicken and waffles will be just as tender and flavorful.
Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 2 cups of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. This keeps the chicken tender and the waffles fluffy.

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: Whip Up the Flavorful Buttermilk Brine

Start by combining 1 tablespoon Kosher salt, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 2 teaspoons paprika, and ½ teaspoon black pepper in a large bowl. Pour in 2 cups of buttermilk, 1 egg, and 1 tablespoon of hot sauce or pickle juice, then stir everything together until smooth and fragrant. This brine is the magic that tenderizes the chicken thighs and infuses them with mouthwatering Southern flavors. Make sure it’s well blended so every bite is perfectly seasoned.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken for Juiciness

Submerge all 6 chicken thighs fully in the brine you just made. Cover the bowl and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial—the chicken soaks up all that buttermilk goodness, making each bite especially juicy and tender. If you’re prepping ahead, you can let it marinate longer for even deeper flavor.

Step 3: Mix Your Flavorful Flour Coating

While the chicken marinates, take a large brown paper or freezer bag and add 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, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Seal the bag and shake vigorously to blend all the spices evenly. This seasoned flour coating is what delivers that irresistible crispy crust we all crave.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken in the Flour Mixture

Take the chicken thighs out of the brine and shake off any excess liquid (no dripping, please!). Add about 3 to 4 pieces to the flour mixture bag at a time, then seal and shake vigorously so every nook and cranny gets a good coating of seasoned flour. Set the coated chicken aside on a plate or tray. Repeat until all pieces are well covered. This double-dipping in flavors forms the perfect crunchy crust once fried.

Step 5: Heat the Oil to the Perfect Frying Temp

Pour vegetable oil into a deep, heavy skillet or Dutch oven until it reaches about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium heat and use a kitchen thermometer to monitor until it reaches exactly 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintaining this steady temperature is key to getting that golden crust without burning and ensuring the chicken cooks evenly inside.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Carefully add 3 to 4 coated chicken thighs to the hot oil, making sure not to crowd the pan. Fry each side for about 10 minutes (since these are bone-in thighs), or until the internal temperature hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll see that gorgeous golden brown crust develop and hear that satisfying sizzle. Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with remaining pieces.

Step 7: Whisk Up the Buttermilk Waffle Batter

While the chicken rests, in a large bowl whisk 2 eggs, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 cups buttermilk, and ½ cup melted unsalted butter until smooth. In a separate bowl, mix 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your waffles tender and fluffy.

Step 8: Cook Waffles to Fluffy, Golden Goodness

Preheat your waffle iron and spray it lightly with nonstick spray before each waffle. Pour about ¾ cup of batter into the center of the iron and cook until the waffles turn golden brown and are cooked through. This usually takes just a few minutes. Use this time wisely while the chicken rests—the timing is perfect to get everything ready simultaneously.

Step 9: Simmer Cinnamon Maple Syrup for the Perfect Drizzle

In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup real maple syrup, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until the butter melts and the syrup is hot. This rich, spiced syrup ties the whole dish together with cozy sweetness.

Step 10: Serve and Savor Every Bite

Stack warm waffles onto plates, top with your crispy fried chicken, and generously drizzle with the cinnamon maple syrup. The combination of textures and flavors—savory, sweet, spicy, and crunchy—is nothing short of spectacular. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting magic of this Southern classic!

Top Tip

Mastering the art of a crispy crust and tender juicy chicken can make all the difference in your Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe. Here are some tips that really helped me perfect this Southern classic and will do the same for you!

Room Temperature Chicken: Always take your chicken out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before frying. This simple step prevents uneven cooking and ensures every bite is juicy.
Oil Temperature Matters: Use a kitchen thermometer to keep the oil steady at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Too hot will burn the crust; too cool will make your crust soggy. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way!
Shake It Well: When coating the chicken in the flour mixture, shake that bag vigorously! This guarantees an even, crunchy coating that sticks perfectly to the marinated chicken.
Rest Your Chicken: Let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack for 4-5 minutes while you cook the waffles. This makes the crust even crispier and keeps the chicken tender inside.

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

To brighten up and add a fresh twist to your chicken and waffles, try garnishing with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley. For an extra pop of color and flavor, add some sliced strawberries or a dollop of whipped cream alongside the cinnamon maple syrup. A pat of butter melting on top of the warm waffles and chicken also brings that irresistible shine and richness.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider light and refreshing sides like a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, or classic Southern-style collard greens. For a heartier meal, creamy mac and cheese or buttery mashed potatoes complement the savory fried chicken beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover fried chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they will keep well for up to 3 days. Keeping them separate prevents the waffles from getting soggy and the chicken from losing its crispness.

Freezing

You can freeze both fried chicken and waffles for up to 1 month. Wrap each piece of chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Do the same with waffles, layering them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

To revive the crispy texture, reheat fried chicken in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes. For waffles, pop them in a toaster or toaster oven until heated through and slightly crisp. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that delightful crunch!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You can, but bone-in thighs stay juicier and have more flavor. If you use breasts, consider adjusting cooking time and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety.

What’s the secret to perfectly crispy chicken?

The key is marinating the chicken in the flavorful buttermilk brine and frying it at a consistent 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, letting it rest after frying locks in the juiciness and crisps up the crust.

Can I make the waffles ahead of time?

Absolutely! Waffles freeze and reheat well. Cook them fresh for best texture, but leftovers can be frozen and toasted later for a quick meal.

How do I store leftover cinnamon maple syrup?

Store leftover syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Warm it gently before serving to restore its pourable consistency.

Final Thoughts

Making this Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe has become one of my favorite kitchen adventures. The harmony of crunchy, juicy chicken paired with buttery waffles and that dreamy cinnamon maple syrup is pure comfort food bliss. Whether you’re serving it for a special brunch or a cozy dinner, this dish invites smiles and happy bellies. So go ahead, dive in, and enjoy each delicious bite—you’ve earned it!