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 (bone-in, skin-on recommended); Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 inches deep); 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

If comfort food is calling your name, you’re in for a treat with this Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe. Picture perfectly seasoned, golden fried chicken paired with fluffy buttermilk waffles — all drizzled with warm cinnamon maple syrup. It’s a match made in Southern heaven, and I can’t wait to show you how simple it is to make!

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’ve made this dish countless times, and honestly, it never fails to wow. Crispy, juicy chicken and light waffles drenched in a cozy cinnamon syrup — it’s the kind of meal that feels like an instant celebration, no matter the day.

Perfectly Crispy Chicken: The secret buttermilk brine and seasoned flour coating create a crunchy crust that locks in all the juicy flavor.
Fluffy Buttermilk Waffles: Tender and soft with just the right hint of sweetness, they’re a perfect base to hold up all that chicken.
Warm Cinnamon Maple Syrup: This syrup adds a cozy, spicy-sweet drizzle that ties the whole dish together beautifully.
Family Friendly & Classic: It’s a Southern American staple that’s sure to impress at brunch, dinner, or any time.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you dive in, here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need and why each ingredient plays a crucial role. Pro tip: use fresh, high-quality ingredients like real buttermilk and fresh chicken thighs to elevate the flavors even more.

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 brightens every bite.
Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on): These deliver juicy meat with extra flavor and crispy skin that’s just unbeatable.
Hot sauce or pickle juice: Adds a punch of zest to the brine for that perfect savory kick.
All-purpose flour & cornstarch: The cornstarch helps create an ultra-crispy crust that stays crunchy after frying.
Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper: These spices build a deep, savory flavor profile for both your chicken and flour coating.
Vegetable oil: Ideal for frying because of its high smoke point and neutral taste.
Baking powder & sugar (for waffles): These help the waffles rise beautifully with a hint of sweetness.
Eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract: Provide moisture, richness, and a subtle aromatic warmth to the waffle batter.
Real maple syrup, butter, ground cinnamon, and vanilla: Combined into a luscious syrup that perfectly balances sweet and spicy notes.

📝

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 personalize. Whether you like yours spicy, cheesy, or with a sweet twist, there’s room to make this classic your own!

Spicy Kick: I love adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour coating for an extra kick that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon maple syrup.
Cheesy Waffles: Sometimes, I stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the waffle batter. The salty cheese adds a delightful contrast to the crispy chicken.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in both the coating and waffles to make this recipe friendly for gluten-sensitive friends.
Sweet Variations: For a decadent brunch, sprinkle some mini chocolate chips into the waffle batter — it’s a delicious surprise that kids and adults will adore.
Herb-Infused Syrup: Try adding a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to the cinnamon maple syrup as it simmers for a subtle herbal undertone.

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 Brine

Start by combining your salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper in a large bowl. Stir in the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce until it’s a smooth, fragrant marinade. This brine tenderizes the chicken thighs and infuses every bite with Southern goodness. Tip: Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for the best flavor and moisture!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken for At Least an Hour

Fully submerge your chicken pieces in the brine, cover, and pop them in the fridge for a minimum of 1 hour. I find letting the chicken marinate a bit longer makes it even juicier and packed with flavor. Remember to take the chicken out about 30 minutes before frying to bring it to room temperature—this helps it cook evenly.

Step 3: Prepare Your Seasoned Flour Coating

In a large brown paper or freezer-safe plastic bag, mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. This coating gives your chicken that irresistible crispy crust. Pro tip: Shake the bag well to distribute the spices evenly for consistent flavor on every piece.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Thoroughly

Remove the chicken thighs from the brine, letting excess liquid drip off (you don’t want the coating to get soggy). Add a few pieces to the flour bag at a time, seal it tight, and shake vigorously to ensure every nook and cranny is covered. Repeat until all chicken is beautifully coated with the seasoned flour mix.

Step 5: Heat Your Oil to the Perfect Temperature

Fill a large skillet with about 2 inches of vegetable oil and heat over medium heat until the oil reaches 350°F. Using a thermometer here is crucial—too hot and the crust burns; too cool and it soaks up excess oil. This delicate balance yields that golden, crunchy exterior we all crave.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken to Crispy Perfection

Gently place 3 to 4 coated chicken thighs into the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry bone-in pieces for about 10 minutes per side, flipping carefully, until the internal temperature hits 165°F and the skin is deep golden brown. Then transfer the cooked chicken onto a wire rack to drain excess oil and stay crispy.

Step 7: Whisk Together the Waffle Batter

In a large bowl, mix the sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and melted butter until smooth. Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing just until combined—don’t worry about small lumps, they help keep your waffles fluffy and tender.

Step 8: Cook Your Waffles Fresh and Fluffy

Preheat your waffle iron and coat it lightly with nonstick spray. Pour about three-quarters of a cup of batter onto the iron and cook until golden brown and cooked through. I like to cook the waffles right after the chicken comes out of the fryer, since the chicken needs a few minutes to rest—perfect timing for fresh, warm waffles!

Step 9: Simmer the Cinnamon Maple Syrup

Combine the maple syrup, butter, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a small saucepan. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until the butter melts and the syrup is warm and fragrant. This spiced syrup is the sweet finish that ties your Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe together beautifully.

Step 10: Assemble and Enjoy!

Stack your golden fried chicken atop the fluffy waffles, then drizzle generously with the warm cinnamon maple syrup. Serve immediately for that perfect harmony of crispy, juicy, sweet, and savory — the ultimate comfort food experience.

Top Tip

Mastering the perfect balance between crispy chicken and fluffy waffles can be tricky, but these tips will help you nail that delightful texture and flavor every time.

Oil Temperature Is Key: I learned early on that keeping the oil steady at 350°F is crucial. Too hot, and the crust burns before the inside cooks; too cool, and the chicken gets greasy. Using a thermometer saved my chicken every time.
Marinate for Flavor and Tenderness: Don’t skip marinating the chicken for at least an hour. Buttermilk and spices tenderize and infuse the meat, making every bite juicy and flavorful.
Shake It Well: Coating the chicken in the flour mixture inside a sealed bag lets you get an even, crunchy crust without the mess. I always shake vigorously for full coverage.
Timing Your Waffles: While the chicken rests, that’s the perfect window to quickly whip up the waffles fresh. It ensures everything is warm and ready to serve together.

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

Top your crispy fried chicken and waffles with a sprinkle of chopped fresh chives or sliced green onions to add a fresh pop of color and a mild zing. A dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries alongside can add a lovely, sweet contrast. For an extra indulgent touch, a dollop of whipped cream or a pat of butter melting on the warm waffles is divine.

Side Dishes

Pair this classic Southern favorite with a simple arugula salad tossed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Southern-style collard greens or fried green tomatoes make hearty, traditional sides. For something creamy, a scoop of coleslaw or macaroni and cheese rounds out the meal beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover fried chicken and waffles in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken crisp, place paper towels inside the container to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing

You can freeze the fried chicken and waffles separately wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then placed in freezer-safe bags. They will keep well for up to 1 month. This is great for prepping ahead or enjoying later.

Reheating

To reheat and keep that satisfying crisp, place chicken pieces on a wire rack in a preheated 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through. For waffles, toast them or heat in the oven wrapped loosely in foil for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain crunchiness.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts work well. Just reduce the frying time to about 6-7 minutes per side and ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F for safety.

How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?

Using a kitchen thermometer is the most accurate method. Heat the oil to 350°F. If you don’t have one, test by dropping a small bit of batter into the oil—it should sizzle immediately but not burn.

Can I make the waffles dairy-free?

You can substitute the buttermilk with a mix of dairy-free milk and a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Use a dairy-free butter alternative to keep it fully dairy-free, but texture might slightly vary.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without making them soggy?

Reheat fried chicken in the oven on a wire rack to keep air circulating and maintain crispiness. Waffles do best when toasted or gently heated in the oven wrapped in foil.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Fried Chicken and Waffles Recipe is a heartwarming celebration of Southern comfort food at its finest. The crispy, spiced chicken paired with fluffy, tender waffles and that cozy cinnamon maple syrup creates a harmony of flavors that's simply irresistible. Whether you're cooking for a family brunch or a special dinner, this recipe offers a soulful experience you’ll want to come back to again and again. So gather your ingredients, get frying, and enjoy every delicious bite—you deserve it!