Hot Honey Chicken and Waffles with Herb Butter
Introduction
If there’s one brunch dish that effortlessly blends comfort and luxury, it’s Hot Honey Chicken and Waffles with Herb Butter. Imagine biting into crispy fried chicken perfectly balanced atop fluffy waffles, all kissed by a sweet and spicy hot honey drizzle. This brunch treat captivates the senses with its dazzling interplay of flavors and textures. Subscribe to receive this delectable recipe in your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to adore about this dish. The combination of spicy, sweet, and savory notes is a veritable dance of flavors. It’s impressively simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a family brunch or a gathering with friends. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with children and adults alike. The customizable spice level ensures this dish caters to everyone’s taste preferences.
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (for waffles)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/4 cups milk
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup hot sauce
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons mixed fresh herbs (parsley, chives, dill), finely chopped
Necessary Tools
– Large skillet
– Paper towels
– Shallow dish
– Whisk
– Waffle iron
– Saucepan
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Customize your chicken and waffles experience by swapping chicken thighs for breasts or adding a dash of cinnamon to the waffle batter for a hint of warmth. For those who enjoy some extra heat, consider adding more cayenne or even a touch of chili flake to the frying flour.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the chicken thighs in a mix of buttermilk, salt, and pepper for at least an hour or overnight to ensure maximum flavor infusion.
2. Mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne in a shallow dish. Dredge the marinated chicken thoroughly and set aside.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet on medium-high. Fry the chicken until it’s golden and crispy, about 6–8 minutes per side, then drain on paper towels.
4. For the hot honey, mix honey and hot sauce in a saucepan over low heat until blended, then set aside.
5. Prepare waffles by combining flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in one bowl. In another, whisk together milk, melted butter, and eggs, then combine the mixtures.
6. Cook waffles in a preheated, greased waffle iron until golden brown.
7. Make herb butter by mixing softened butter with finely chopped herbs.
8. Assemble by placing waffles on a plate, topping with chicken, drizzling hot honey over, and adding a dollop of herb butter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to complement the richness of the chicken and waffles. A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice can add a refreshing brightness to the meal.
Pro Tips for Success
For the crispiest chicken, ensure oil is hot enough before frying. Let the waffle batter rest a few minutes before cooking for fluffier results.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat the chicken in the oven to maintain crispiness and waffles in a toaster for best results.
FAQ Section
– Can I use chicken breasts instead? Yes, just adjust the cooking time as needed.
– What herbs work best for the butter? Try parsley, chives, and dill, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Conclusion
Hot Honey Chicken and Waffles with Herb Butter is a delectable dish worth adding to your brunch repertoire. Its exciting balance of flavors and ease of preparation will leave you and your guests thoroughly impressed. Don’t forget to leave a review, share your results in photos, or tag your culinary creation on social media!
Nutritional Information
Approximately 620 calories per serving, including 35g of fat, 50g of carbohydrates, and 22g of protein.
