Crispy Chicken and Waffle Sliders

Name: Crispy Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Vegetable oil for frying; 8 mini waffles; Maple syrup for drizzling; Hot sauce (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love creating fun and delicious meals that elevate my brunch game, and these crispy chicken and waffle sliders are exactly that! Each slider combines juicy fried chicken with the perfect amount of sweetness from the waffles, making them an irresistible treat. What I love most about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted for different flavors, whether you like buttery syrup or zesty hot sauce. Trust me, once you try these sliders, they will become a staple in your home!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-06T22:22:32.094Z

When experimenting with flavors, I stumbled upon the idea of chicken and waffles together and knew I had to create sliders. The combination of crispy chicken, fluffy waffles, and just the right amount of syrup creates an extraordinary taste experience. I used a simple buttermilk marinade to tenderize the chicken, which, when fried, resulted in a dish that's both crispy and juicy.

While assembling the sliders, I found that a touch of spicy sauce perfectly balances the sweetness of the maple syrup. It’s all about layering flavors; don’t be afraid to try different toppings, like pickles or slaw, to enhance the texture and taste of the sliders. Every bite is a delightful surprise!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The ultimate balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Perfectly customizable with your favorite sauces and toppings.
Fun and interactive way to enjoy a classic brunch dish.

      

Mastering the Perfect Fry

To achieve the ultimate crispy texture, it's essential to monitor the oil temperature while frying. I recommend keeping the heat around 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the coating might burn before the chicken cooks through, while oil that's not hot enough can lead to greasy chicken. An ideal indicator of readiness is small bubbles forming around the chicken as you lower it into the oil.

Frying in batches is key to maintaining that perfect temperature. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry just a couple of pieces at a time, allowing them enough space to cook evenly and get that beautiful golden-brown color on every side.

Waffle Variations

The mini waffles are a highlight of this dish, and you can easily switch things up! For instance, if you prefer a more savory option, try adding shredded cheddar cheese or herbs like chives or parsley to your waffle batter. Consider using a cornbread batter for a different flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the juicy fried chicken.

If you're short on time, you could use store-bought waffles. However, for those who enjoy a DIY approach, making your own waffles can take this dish to the next level. A classic Belgian waffle batter or a buttermilk variant will elevate the sliders with added texture and taste.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders are ideal for a brunch spread and can be served with an assortment of sides. Consider pairing them with crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal. The contrast of flavors will delight your guests and add a vibrant touch to the table.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, serving the sliders with an array of sauces can be a fun twist. Create a DIY sauce bar with honey mustard, spicy buffalo sauce, or even a zesty Sriracha mayo. This not only enhances the flavors but also allows everyone to customize their sliders to their liking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Waffles Sliders

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil for frying
8 mini waffles
Maple syrup for drizzling
Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Marinate the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts into smaller pieces suitable for sliders. Place them in a bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to keep the chicken juicy.

Prepare the Coating

In another bowl, mix together the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This flavorful coating will give a nice crispy texture to the chicken when fried.

Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Take each piece of marinated chicken, coat it in the seasoned flour mixture, and carefully place it in the hot oil. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Assemble the Sliders

Once the chicken is cooked, take the mini waffles and layer them with a piece of fried chicken in between. Drizzle with maple syrup and add a dash of hot sauce if desired.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sliders warm and watch them disappear instantly. They make for a perfect brunch or party snack!

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

Try adding your favorite toppings to these sliders. A little bit of coleslaw or pickles can add an amazing crunch and flavor contrast.

Ingredient Insights

The use of buttermilk for marinating the chicken is a game changer. It not only tenderizes the meat but also adds a slight tang that complements the sweetness of the waffles perfectly. If you can't find buttermilk, a quick substitute can be made by mixing 1 cup of regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before using.

Choosing the right flour is also crucial for coating your chicken. All-purpose flour provides the best texture, but for a gluten-free option, consider using almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Just remember that the coating may behave differently, so keep an eye on it while frying to avoid burning.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning for a crowd, prep can be done ahead of time to ease stress on the day of serving. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, giving the flavors more time to develop. Make sure to keep it covered and refrigerated until you're ready to cook.

Waffles can also be made in advance and frozen. Just ensure they are completely cooled before stacking them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to use them, simply toast the frozen waffles until they are warm and slightly crisp, ready for assembly with the chicken.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your coating is falling off during frying, try letting the coated chicken sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before cooking. This allows the batter to adhere better and helps create that crispy crust while frying.

If your sliders come out greasy, it’s typically a sign that the oil temperature was too low. Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil stays hot enough throughout the cooking process, and consider using a rack to drain excess oil after frying to keep them crispy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen waffles?

Yes, you can use frozen mini waffles if you're short on time! Just toast them before assembling.

→ How do I make these sliders spicy?

You can add your favorite hot sauce to the chicken marinade or directly on the assembled sliders for extra heat.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

These sliders pair well with fresh fruit, a side salad, or some crispy bacon for a complete meal.

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before for enhanced flavor, then fry just before serving.