These Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders are a fun twist on a classic dish! You get crispy chicken paired with sweet, fluffy waffles, all in a perfectly bite-sized form.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for both the waffles and the chicken coating. You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, or gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free version.
Buttermilk: It adds moisture and tang to both the waffles and the chicken. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes.
Chicken: I really like using chicken tenders for this recipe because they fry up juicy and tender. You can swap them for boneless thighs for more flavor, or even use tofu for a vegetarian option!
Maple Syrup: This provides a sweet finish to the sliders. If you’re looking for a sugar-free alternative, try using sugar-free syrup or honey—for a fun twist, a spicy honey works great too!
How Do You Make the Waffles Light and Fluffy?
The key to light and fluffy waffles is careful mixing. When adding wet ingredients to dry, mix until just combined—some lumps are okay! Overmixing can lead to tough waffles. Also, preheating the mini waffle iron ensures they cook evenly and get crispy.
What’s the Best Way to Fry the Chicken for a Crispy Crust?
To achieve that perfect crispy chicken, make sure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F). If it’s too cool, the chicken will not crisp up nicely. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Let them drain on paper towels to keep that crunch!
How Can You Assemble These Sliders Effectively?
When assembling, stack the fried chicken between two waffles and drizzle with syrup to keep it from sliding. Use a toothpick to hold everything together, making it easier for serving. Garnishing with a rosemary sprig adds a nice touch and freshness!
Now you’re all set to make some delightful Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and savory in every bite!
Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Ingredients:
For the Waffles:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken tenders or chicken breast strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Assembly:
- Maple syrup, for drizzling
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
- Toothpicks or small skewers
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 30 minutes for preparation and cooking. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes making the waffles and frying the chicken. With a bit of assembly, you’ll have these sliders ready to serve in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Waffles:
First, preheat your mini waffle iron. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and optional chopped rosemary. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently until everything is just combined. Remember, it’s okay if there are a few lumps—this will help keep the waffles light and fluffy!
2. Cook the Mini Waffles:
Next, spoon small portions of the batter onto the preheated mini waffle iron. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove them and set them aside on a wire rack to keep them crispy.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
While your waffles are cooking, take your chicken tenders and place them in a bowl with the buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 20 minutes—this will help to tenderize the chicken and infuse flavor. If you have a bit more time, letting them soak for up to 2 hours is even better!
4. Prepare the Dredging Mixture:
In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This will be the seasoning for your crispy coating!
5. Coat the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Then, dredge each piece into the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat. Make sure each piece is well coated for that perfect crunch!
6. Fry the Chicken:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken pieces in batches and fry them until golden brown and cooked through—this usually takes about 4-5 minutes on each side. Once done, drain them on paper towels to keep them nice and crispy.
7. Assemble the Sliders:
Now, it’s time to put everything together! Place one mini waffle on your serving board, add a piece of freshly fried chicken on top, then drizzle with maple syrup. Place a second mini waffle on top to finish the slider. Secure each slider with a toothpick and add a small rosemary sprig for decoration.
8. Serve Immediately:
Serve these delightful sliders warm, with extra maple syrup on the side for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy the crispiness of the chicken paired with the sweetness of the waffles in every bite!
Bon appétit and enjoy your delicious Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders—crisp, sweet, and savory goodness all in one hub of joy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before marinating. The best way to thaw is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or using the cold water method by sealing it in a bag and submerging it in cold water for about 1-2 hours.
How Do I Make Waffles Crispy?
To achieve crispy waffles, ensure your waffle iron is properly preheated before adding the batter. Cooking them until they are golden brown and not undercooking helps also maintain their crispiness. Placing them on a wire rack after cooking will keep them from becoming soggy.
Can I Prepare Any Components in Advance?
Yes! You can make the waffle batter and marinate the chicken in advance. Just store the batter in the refrigerator for up to a day and marinate the chicken for a few hours to ensure it absorbs the flavors. Fry the chicken and cook the waffles right before serving for the best taste and texture.
What Can I Serve with Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders?
These sliders are fantastic on their own, but they pair well with simple sides like a fresh fruit salad or crispy roasted potatoes. You might also consider serving extra syrup or spicy honey as a dipping sauce for a fun twist!