Hot Honey Chicken Waffles

Indulge in the ultimate fusion of flavors with this Hot Honey Chicken and Waffles recipe! Crispy fried chicken sits atop golden, fluffy waffles, drizzled with sweet and spicy hot honey and finished with a dollop of herb-infused butter. Perfect for brunch, dinner, or whenever you crave an unforgettable combination of savory, sweet, and spicy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The crispy chicken, fluffy waffles, and spicy-sweet hot honey create a perfect balance.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice to suit your taste, making it family-friendly.
• Impressive Yet Simple: Despite its gourmet vibe, it’s straightforward to prepare.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for kids, adults, or guests, this dish always delivers smiles.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 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 to your spice level)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Waffles:

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

For the Hot Honey:

• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup hot sauce

For the Herb Butter:

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, chives, dill), finely chopped

Necessary Tools

• Large skillet
• Paper towels
• Shallow dish
• Whisk
• Waffle iron
• Saucepan

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

• Chicken Breasts: Substitute chicken thighs with breasts, adjusting cooking time as needed.
• Cinnamon in Waffles: Add a dash of cinnamon for a hint of warmth.
• Spice it Up: Sprinkle extra cayenne or chili flakes into the dredge mixture for a fiery kick.
• Dairy-Free: Replace buttermilk and milk with almond milk or oat milk.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

2. Dredge the Chicken

In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Dredge each chicken thigh in the mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

3. Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken thighs for 6–8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.

4. Prepare the Hot Honey

In a small saucepan, combine honey and hot sauce. Heat over low, stirring until well blended. Set aside.

5. Make the Waffles

In one bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix milk, melted butter, and eggs. Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth. Cook in a preheated waffle iron until golden brown.

6. Make the Herb Butter

Mix softened butter with chopped fresh herbs. Set aside for serving.

7. Assemble and Serve

Place a waffle on a plate, top with a piece of fried chicken, drizzle generously with hot honey, and add a dollop of herb butter. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with fresh fruit like watermelon or orange slices to balance the richness.
• Complement with a chilled mimosa or sweet tea for a complete brunch experience.

Pro Tips for Success

• Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) for crispy chicken without greasiness.
• Rest the Waffle Batter: Let the batter sit for 5–10 minutes to create fluffier waffles.
• Quick Frying Hack: Use a thermometer to monitor frying oil temperature consistently.

Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to retain crispiness. Waffles can be reheated in a toaster.

FAQ

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
A: Yes! Coat the chicken with cooking spray and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q: Can I make the waffles ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Keep cooked waffles warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven until ready to serve.

Q: Is there a substitute for hot sauce?
A: Try sriracha or a mix of chili flakes and vinegar for a similar flavor profile.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Chicken and Waffles is the perfect blend of flavors, textures, and indulgence. Whether it’s for a lazy Sunday brunch or a special dinner, this dish never fails to impress. Sweet, savory, and spicy—it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 620
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 22g

Share Your Creations!

If you try this recipe, I’d love to see your photos and hear your thoughts! Tag your creations with #HotHoneyChickenWaffles on Instagram or Pinterest and inspire others to dive into this flavorful journey. 🧇🔥🍗