Chicken and waffles are a beloved combination, bringing together savory and sweet flavors in a delightful symphony. However, the traditional way of serving this dish can be cumbersome, especially for parties or on-the-go snacks. Our recipe for Mini Chicken and Waffles on a Stick simplifies the process, making it not only easy but also incredibly fun to eat. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you achieve perfection every time.
Mini Chicken and Waffles on a Stick Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Waffles:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 3/4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Additional:
- Wooden skewers
- Maple syrup for serving
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Chicken
- Marinate the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. This will tenderize the meat and add flavor.
- Season the Flour: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoned flour will give the chicken a deliciously crispy coating.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, ensuring an even coat.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Making the Waffles
- Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs and add the milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the waffles tough.
- Cook the Waffles: Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease the waffle iron with non-stick spray or a small amount of vegetable oil. Pour the batter onto the preheated waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crisp. Repeat until all the batter is used.
- Cut the Waffles: Once the waffles are cooked, cut them into small, bite-sized pieces that will fit nicely on the skewers with the chicken.
Assembling the Mini Chicken and Waffles on a Stick
- Prepare the Skewers: Take a wooden skewer and thread a piece of waffle, followed by a piece of chicken. Repeat this pattern until the skewer is full, leaving some space at the end for handling.
- Serve with Maple Syrup: Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and drizzle with maple syrup. Alternatively, you can serve the syrup on the side for dipping.
Read More:
Classic Sloppy Joe Recipe
Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe
Tips for Perfect Mini Chicken and Waffles
- Uniform Sizes: Ensure that the chicken pieces and waffle bites are roughly the same size for even cooking and a balanced bite.
- Hot Oil: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken. If the oil is not hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Fresh Waffles: For the best texture, make the waffles fresh right before assembling the skewers. If needed, you can keep them warm in a low oven until ready to use.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Spicy Kick: Add some cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy version of the chicken.
- Herbed Waffles: Mix fresh herbs like chives or parsley into the waffle batter for an extra layer of flavor.
- Sauce Options: Besides maple syrup, serve these mini delights with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even hot sauce for a different taste experience.
Conclusion
Our Easiest Mini Chicken and Waffles on a Stick Recipe is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to game day parties. This fun twist on a classic dish is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your recipe collection. By following these detailed steps, you’ll achieve crispy, flavorful chicken paired with fluffy, golden waffles every time.
