Savory Southern Fried Chicken Waffles (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Fried Chicken

01 - 4 large bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
02 - 480 ml buttermilk
03 - 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
04 - 120 g all-purpose flour
05 - 1 teaspoon paprika
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
09 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
10 - Vegetable oil, for deep frying

→ Waffles

11 - 240 g all-purpose flour
12 - 2 tablespoons sugar
13 - 1 tablespoon baking powder
14 - 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
15 - 0.5 teaspoon salt
16 - 2 large eggs
17 - 420 ml buttermilk
18 - 120 ml melted butter
19 - Cooking spray, for greasing waffle iron

→ For Serving

20 - Maple syrup
21 - Whipped cream (optional)
22 - Fresh berries (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using) in a large bowl. Submerge chicken thighs in the mixture, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
02 - In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Remove chicken from marinade and coat thoroughly in seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
03 - Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to a depth of approximately 5 cm. Heat oil over medium-high heat to 175°C. Test by adding a small bread piece; it should sizzle when ready.
04 - Add chicken thighs, skin side down, to the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for about 10 minutes per side until golden and cooked through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 74°C. Drain on paper towels.
05 - In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat eggs then incorporate buttermilk and melted butter. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just blended; do not overmix.
06 - Preheat the waffle iron and lightly coat with cooking spray. Pour batter onto the iron, close, and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden and crisp. Repeat with remaining batter.
07 - Place a warm waffle on a plate, top with fried chicken, and drizzle with maple syrup. Garnish with whipped cream and fresh berries if desired.
08 - Enjoy the dish while both chicken and waffles are hot for optimal texture and flavor.

# Notes:

01 - For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to achieve maximum tenderness and flavor.
02 - Do not overcrowd the pan when frying or the oil temperature will drop, resulting in less crispy chicken.
03 - Avoid overmixing the waffle batter to ensure light, fluffy waffles.