Crispy Chicken and Waffle Sliders

Name: Crispy Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, cut into strips; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 eggs; 1 3/4 cups milk; 1/2 cup melted butter; 1 tablespoon sugar; Maple syrup or honey for drizzling; Fresh fruit for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Everyday Meals

I love the combination of savory and sweet, and these Crispy Chicken and Waffle Sliders are the perfect representation of that balance. Each bite is a delightful fusion of tender, flavorful chicken nestled between fluffy waffles, making this dish a fun twist on a classic breakfast staple. Whether I'm serving them at brunch or a casual gathering, they never fail to impress my guests. Plus, they’re easily customizable, allowing me to play with different sauces and toppings to match any occasion.

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-01-06T22:22:32.223Z

When I first experimented with these sliders, I knew I wanted to create something that combined my love for fried chicken with the comforting charm of waffles. After some trial and error, I found that marinating the chicken in buttermilk resulted in a juicy and crispy finish that pairs perfectly with the waffles. I also discovered that using a Belgian waffle maker gives that ideal texture, making the outside crisp while keeping the inside fluffy.

One tip I discovered is to keep the waffles warm in the oven while you cook the chicken. This way, everything stays warm and delicious until it’s time to serve. It’s a small detail, but it really elevates the whole experience, ensuring that each slider is as enjoyable as the first!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        The perfect mix of sweet and savory in every bite
Crispy chicken that delights the taste buds
Customizable toppings for endless flavor options
Fun and unique presentation for gatherings

      

The Art of Marinating Chicken

Marinating the chicken in buttermilk is key to achieving a tender and flavorful outcome. The acidity in buttermilk helps break down the proteins in the chicken, making it juicier and more succulent. Make sure to cover the chicken well with the marinade and leave it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting it rest for a few hours will enhance the flavor even further.

Adding spices like paprika and garlic powder not only seasons the chicken but also contributes to a beautiful, golden crust when fried. If you're looking for a spicier kick, consider including cayenne pepper or using a spiced buttermilk alternative. This step is crucial; skip the marinating, and you might end up with bland chicken that doesn’t meet the expectations of these delightful sliders.

Waffle Perfection

When preparing the waffle batter, it's essential to whisk the dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them. This helps prevent overmixing, which can lead to tough waffles. You'll know the batter is ready when it's mixed just until combined, and a few lumps remain. The fluffy texture of the waffles is vital, giving a contrast to the crispy chicken ensuring each bite is a blend of textures.

Make sure your waffle maker is preheated before adding the batter. This not only ensures even cooking but also helps create a crispier exterior. The cooking time can vary between machines, but generally, you should aim for around 4-5 minutes, checking for a golden-brown color before removing. Keeping cooked waffles warm in the oven (set to about 200°F) prevents them from getting soggy while you finish frying the chicken.

Customizing Your Sliders

The beauty of these sliders lies in their versatility. You can easily swap out maple syrup for honey, or even try out citrus-infused syrup for a refreshing twist. If you're in the mood for something a little different, consider including a spicy aioli or a creamy slaw to accompany the chicken, adding layers of flavor and texture to each bite.

For an even heartier option, consider adding cheese between the chicken and waffles. A slice of sharp cheddar or pepper jack can enhance the savory profile and provide a melty surprise. Additionally, adding toppings like avocado slices or sautéed greens can not only elevate the nutrition of your sliders but also create a feast for the eyes.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

For the Waffles

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
1 3/4 cups milk
1/2 cup melted butter
1 tablespoon sugar

For Assembly

Maple syrup or honey for drizzling
Fresh fruit for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking for the best results.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Add the chicken strips, cover, and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.

Prepare the Waffle Batter

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, eggs, milk, and melted butter until well combined. Preheat your waffle maker.

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Dredge marinated chicken strips in flour and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Make the Waffles

Pour waffle batter into the preheated waffle maker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions until golden brown. Keep the waffles warm in the oven.

Assemble the Sliders

Take a waffle, place a piece of fried chicken on top, and add another waffle to form a slider. Drizzle with maple syrup or honey and garnish with fresh fruit if desired.

Serve immediately for the best taste and texture!

Pro Tips

Feel free to use a variety of spices in your flour mixture for the chicken to create custom flavor profiles. Adding some cayenne pepper will give it a nice kick!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Crispy Chicken and Waffle Sliders can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep. You can fry the chicken and make the waffles a couple of hours in advance. Keep them separately wrapped; the chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, while waffles can be stored in a zip-lock bag.

If you want to freeze them, allow the fried chicken and waffles to cool completely before wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then in foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your chicken isn't crispy enough, it could be due to two main factors: oil temperature and dredging technique. Ensure your oil is hot enough, ideally around 350°F, before adding chicken; otherwise, it will absorb too much oil and become soggy. Use a thermometer for best results, as perfectly cooked chicken should be golden brown and should not take more than 5 minutes per side.

For waffles, if they come out too dense, double-check your baking powder, ensuring it's fresh, as an expired chemical leavener can lead to heavy texture. Also, be cautious not to overmix the batter, as this creates gluten that can make waffles tough instead of fluffy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the waffles ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the waffles ahead and keep them in the oven at a low temperature to keep them warm until you're ready to assemble the sliders.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating for the best texture.