:🧇 Backyard Chicken and Waffles

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There’s something special about the combination of crispy fried chicken and golden, buttery waffles — that perfect balance of savory, sweet, and soul-satisfying crunch. Backyard Chicken and Waffles brings Southern comfort right to your backyard, combining everything you love about brunch and BBQ into one unforgettable meal.

The Story Behind the Recipe

This dish came to life after a weekend BBQ that accidentally stretched into brunch the next morning — the grill was still warm, the waffle iron was still plugged in, and the rest was history. What started as a “let’s throw something together” moment became one of my most-requested backyard dishes.

Here on the Delmarva Peninsula, I’m always chasing ways to blend backyard BBQ flavors with Southern classics, and this recipe nails it. The crispy chicken has that deep, smoky seasoning kick, while the waffles add just enough sweetness to balance it out. Add a drizzle of syrup (or a splash of hot honey if you’re feeling bold), and you’ve got a dish that turns every meal into a celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️

🍗 Crispy, Juicy Chicken: Buttermilk marinade and a seasoned coating for the perfect crunch.
🧇 Golden, Fluffy Waffles: The ideal base for soaking up syrup — and chicken drippings.
🔥 Backyard Twist: Southern comfort meets BBQ-style boldness.
🍯 Sweet + Savory Harmony: Every bite delivers that perfect balance of flavors.

Backyard Chicken and Waffles Recipe

🕒 Prep Time: 30 min ⏱ Cook Time: 15 min ⏳ Total Time: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 4

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 Large Organic Chicken Breasts

  • ½ Gallon Buttermilk

  • 3 cups All-Purpose Flour

  • 1 cup Cornstarch

  • 2 tsp Baking Powder

  • 1 Tbsp Paprika

  • 1½ tsp Salt

  • 1½ Tbsp Garlic Powder

  • 1½ Tbsp Onion Powder

  • ½ tsp Cayenne Pepper

  • 1 Tbsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper

  • Enough Cooking Oil to cover chicken in your frying pan

For the Waffles:

  • 2 cups Favorite Waffle Mix (or homemade – see below)

  • 2 Eggs (separated)

  • ¼ cup Unsalted Butter (melted)

  • 1½ cups Whole Milk

  • Butter and Maple Syrup (for serving)

Instructions

1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken
Dry the chicken with paper towels. Place in a container or zip-top bag, cover with buttermilk, and refrigerate for at least 12 hours (overnight for best flavor).

2️⃣ Preheat and Prep
When ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to 350°F (176°C).
Preheat your waffle iron and frying oil to 350°F as well.

3️⃣ Make the Waffle Batter
Separate 2 eggs — yolks in one bowl, whites in another.
Whip the egg whites until foamy (about 90 seconds), then add melted butter and whisk in egg yolks. Pour in milk and mix until smooth.

4️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper.

5️⃣ Coat the Chicken
Remove chicken from the buttermilk. Dip into the seasoned flour, back into buttermilk, and again into the flour. Press to ensure full coverage.

6️⃣ Fry the Chicken
Place the chicken in hot oil (350°F), laying each piece away from you to avoid splatters. Fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
If not at 160°F internal, transfer to a 350°F oven on a wire rack to finish.

7️⃣ Make the Waffles
Slowly add waffle mix into the egg mixture, stirring gently until smooth and pudding-like.
Spray the waffle iron, pour the batter, and cook until golden brown and crisp on the edges.

8️⃣ Assemble and Serve
Butter the waffles, top with fried chicken, drizzle with maple syrup or honey, and enjoy that perfect harmony of flavors.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken and Waffles 💡

🍗 Crispy Secret: Let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying to set the breading.
🧇 Crisp Waffles: Keep finished waffles on a wire rack in the oven (200°F) while you cook the rest.
🌶️ Add Heat: Mix cayenne or hot sauce into the buttermilk marinade for a spicy twist.
🥛 Don’t Overmix: Some lumps in the waffle batter keep it fluffy.
🍯 Mix It Up: Try spicy honey or bourbon maple syrup for a gourmet finish.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic here is in the contrast — crispy, savory chicken against light, buttery waffles. The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, while the cornstarch in the breading ensures a golden, shatter-crisp crust. And those waffles? They soak up the syrup and drippings, bringing everything together in one perfect bite.

💬 What’s your go-to topping — syrup, honey, or hot sauce? Drop it in the comments — let’s see who’s team sweet vs. team heat.

FAQ

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F until golden and crispy (about 25–30 minutes). It’ll be lighter, though not quite as crunchy.

Q: What type of waffles work best?
A: Buttermilk or Belgian waffles — their fluffy texture pairs perfectly with fried chicken.

Q: How do I keep the chicken crispy?
A: Place fried chicken on a wire rack in the oven (200°F) while cooking the rest to keep it crunchy.

Q: Can I make waffles ahead of time?
A: Yes — store in the fridge or freezer and reheat in a toaster or oven before serving.

Q: What’s the best sauce pairing?
A: Classic maple syrup, honey butter, or even spicy honey for an elevated kick.

🔧 Recommended Gear

  • Waffle Iron – Essential for perfectly crisp, golden waffles every time.