Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Highlighted under: Global Gourmet Plates
Delight in these bite-sized Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders that combine crispy fried chicken with fluffy waffles for a fun and delicious treat.
These Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders are perfect for brunch, parties, or a fun weeknight dinner. The combination of savory and sweet is sure to please everyone!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Crispy chicken perfectly paired with soft, fluffy waffles
- A delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors
- Perfectly sized for parties and gatherings
The Perfect Party Treat
Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders are the ultimate party food that will leave your guests raving. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to handle, allowing guests to mingle while enjoying these delicious sliders. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or a more formal gathering, these sliders add a fun twist to your menu. You can even prepare them ahead of time and warm them up, making your hosting duties a breeze.
The combination of crispy chicken and fluffy waffles creates a unique flavor profile that appeals to all ages. Kids will love the sweetness of the waffles, while adults can appreciate the savory notes of the seasoned chicken. These sliders are not just a meal; they are an experience that guests will remember long after the party ends.
Customization Options
One of the best features of Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders is their versatility. You can easily customize them to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. For a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to your buttermilk marinade or incorporating cayenne pepper into your flour mixture. Alternatively, for a more gourmet touch, swap regular maple syrup for flavored syrups like bourbon or pecan, which can elevate the dish even further.
If you're looking for a healthier option, try baking the chicken tenders instead of frying them. Coat the chicken in a light layer of oil and bake until crispy for a guilt-free version of this delightful treat. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of waffles, such as whole grain or even cornbread waffles, to create a unique flavor that fits your style.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your sliders, consider serving them with a variety of dipping sauces. A spicy honey mustard or a tangy barbecue sauce can complement the flavors beautifully. Place the sauces in small bowls around your serving platter for an appealing presentation that will entice guests to dive in. You can also serve the sliders alongside fresh fruit or a light salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
For a themed gathering, pair these sliders with other Southern-inspired dishes like collard greens or mac and cheese. This will create a cohesive menu that transports your guests to a Southern cookout. No matter how you choose to serve them, Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
For the Waffles
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
For Assembly
- Maple syrup for drizzling
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Make sure to have everything prepared before you start cooking!
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken tenders with buttermilk and let them marinate for at least 20 minutes.
Prepare the Waffle Batter
In another bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
Fry the Chicken
In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Cook the Waffles
Preheat your waffle maker. Pour the batter into the preheated waffle maker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions until golden and crispy. Remove and cut into small squares.
Assemble the Sliders
Place a piece of fried chicken between two squares of waffle. Drizzle with maple syrup and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Enjoy these sliders warm for the best experience!
Frying Tips
When frying the chicken, make sure to maintain the oil temperature at around 350°F. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a perfect golden-brown crust. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn while the inside remains raw. Use a thermometer for accuracy, and adjust the heat as needed during cooking.
For best results, do not overcrowd the skillet. Fry the chicken in batches to allow for even cooking and crispiness. If necessary, keep the cooked chicken warm in a low oven while you finish frying the rest.
Waffle Cooking Techniques
Preheating your waffle maker is crucial for achieving fluffy, crispy waffles. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the ideal cooking time and temperature. A well-preheated waffle maker ensures that the batter cooks evenly and releases easily once done.
If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding vanilla extract or cinnamon to your waffle batter. This subtle enhancement can elevate your dish and make it even more inviting. Additionally, for an extra crispy texture, let the cooked waffles rest for a minute or two before cutting them into squares.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the waffles ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the waffles ahead and reheat them in a toaster or oven before assembly.
→ What type of chicken can I use?
You can use chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer, just cut them into strips.
→ Can I bake the waffles instead of using a waffle maker?
A waffle maker is recommended for the best texture, but you can try baking the batter in a greased baking dish at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Delight in these bite-sized Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders that combine crispy fried chicken with fluffy waffles for a fun and delicious treat.
Created by: Leo
Recipe Type: Global Gourmet Plates
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
For the Waffles
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
For Assembly
- Maple syrup for drizzling
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine the chicken tenders with buttermilk and let them marinate for at least 20 minutes.
In another bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Preheat your waffle maker. Pour the batter into the preheated waffle maker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions until golden and crispy. Remove and cut into small squares.
Place a piece of fried chicken between two squares of waffle. Drizzle with maple syrup and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 20g