Description
These Chicken and Waffles Sliders combine crispy fried chicken pieces with buttery toasted mini waffles, crowned with optional bacon and drizzled with sweet maple syrup. Perfect as a fun and flavorful appetizer or a delicious brunch treat, these sliders bring together classic Southern comfort food flavors in a bite-sized form.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into slider-size pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Frying
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 1 inch deep)
Assembly
- 12 mini frozen waffles, toasted
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup, for drizzling
- 6 slices cooked bacon, halved (optional)
- Wooden picks or skewers, for assembling
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Place the cut chicken pieces in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to tenderize and add flavor.
- Prepare Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Heat Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet to about 1 inch depth and heat it over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot enough for frying (around 350°F or until a pinch of flour sizzles).
- Dredge Chicken: Remove chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere a good coating.
- Fry Chicken: Carefully place coated chicken pieces in the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 4 to 5 minutes per side or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Toast Waffles: Toast mini frozen waffles following package instructions until golden and slightly crisp. Brush both sides lightly with melted butter for extra flavor and sheen.
- Assemble Sliders: Take one toasted waffle and place a fried chicken piece on top. Add half a bacon slice if desired. Drizzle with maple syrup, then crown with another waffle to create a slider. Secure with a wooden pick or skewer.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the sliders warm, drizzled with extra maple syrup if preferred. Enjoy as a hearty appetizer or brunch dish.
Notes
- For a spicy variation, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade or drizzle hot honey instead of maple syrup.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful bites; breasts work well too for a leaner option.
- Ensure oil temperature remains consistent for even frying and to prevent greasy chicken.
- These sliders make a great fun finger food for gatherings, brunches, or game days.
- Leftover waffles can be toasted and buttered fresh for the best texture.
