Why You’ll Love This Spicy Honey Butter Chicken Waffles
Spicy Honey Butter Chicken Waffles is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. The crispy chicken, paired with fluffy waffles, creates a perfect texture contrast. The spicy honey butter adds a kick that elevates the dish to new heights. This recipe is perfect for brunch, family gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this dish will surely impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds!
What You’ll Need for Spicy Honey Butter Chicken Waffles
To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together beautifully.
Complete Ingredients List
- 4 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup honey (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick, divided)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Cooking oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
- Maple syrup for serving
Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives
If you have dietary restrictions, there are several substitutions you can make. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend. You can replace buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar for a dairy-free version. If you prefer less spice, reduce the hot sauce or omit it altogether. Feel free to experiment with different types of honey for unique flavor profiles!
How to Make Spicy Honey Butter Chicken Waffles
Making Spicy Honey Butter Chicken Waffles is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to create this delicious dish.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Spicy Honey Butter
In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Stir in the honey and a pinch of salt until well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Waffle Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and paprika (if using). In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the milk. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat about 1 inch of cooking oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat (around 350°F or 175°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Dredge each piece in flour, ensuring an even coating. Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil and fry for about 7-10 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Cook the Waffles
Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pour the waffle batter into the preheated waffle maker, using the recommended amount for your specific model. Cook until golden brown and crisp, usually about 4-5 minutes.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Place a warm waffle on a plate, top it with a piece of fried chicken, and drizzle generously with the spicy honey butter. Finish with a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness.
Serving Suggestions for Spicy Honey Butter Chicken Waffles
How to Serve Spicy Honey Butter Chicken Waffles
Serve the waffles warm, topped with crispy chicken. Drizzle the spicy honey butter over the top for an extra kick. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped herbs for a pop of color.
Perfect Pairings & Toppings
This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or blueberries. For drinks, consider serving it with a refreshing iced tea or a mimosa for brunch.
Storing & Preserving Spicy Honey Butter Chicken Waffles
Best Storage Methods
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to separate the chicken and waffles to maintain their textures.
Reheating or Freezing Tips
To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Waffles can be toasted in a toaster or reheated in the oven for a crispy finish. You can freeze the cooked chicken and waffles for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them tightly!
Tips for Perfect Spicy Honey Butter Chicken Waffles Every Time
Avoid These Common Mistakes
One common mistake is overmixing the waffle batter, which can lead to tough waffles. Also, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken to avoid greasy results.
Helpful Tricks for Success
For extra crispy chicken, double-dip it in the flour. This creates a thicker crust. Additionally, let the waffles rest for a minute before serving to allow them to set properly.
Fun Variations of Spicy Honey Butter Chicken Waffles
Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists
Try adding spices like paprika or garlic powder to the flour for the chicken for added flavor. You can also mix in chocolate chips or blueberries into the waffle batter for a sweet twist!
Dietary-Friendly Adjustments
To make this dish vegan, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use plant-based milk and egg replacements. For a low-carb option, consider using almond flour for the waffles.
FAQs
What If My Spicy Honey Butter Chicken Waffles Doesn’t Turn Out Right?
If your waffles are too soggy, try cooking them longer in the waffle iron. For chicken, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying.
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the waffle batter a day ahead. Just store them separately in the fridge.
What Ingredients Can I Swap?
You can swap buttermilk for regular milk or a dairy-free alternative. For the chicken, try using a different protein like shrimp or a plant-based option.
PrintSpicy Honey Butter Chicken Waffles
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Spicy Honey Butter Chicken Waffles is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors with crispy chicken and fluffy waffles, topped with a spicy honey butter.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup honey (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick, divided)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Cooking oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
- Prepare the Spicy Honey Butter: In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Stir in the honey and a pinch of salt until well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Waffle Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and paprika (if using). In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the milk. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat about 1 inch of cooking oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat (around 350°F or 175°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Dredge each piece in flour, ensuring an even coating. Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil and fry for about 7-10 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Cook the Waffles: Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pour the waffle batter into the preheated waffle maker, using the recommended amount for your specific model. Cook until golden brown and crisp, usually about 4-5 minutes.
- Assemble the Dish: Place a warm waffle on a plate, top it with a piece of fried chicken, and drizzle generously with the spicy honey butter. Finish with a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness.
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Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- Waffles can be toasted in a toaster or reheated in the oven for a crispy finish.
- For extra crispy chicken, double-dip it in the flour.
- Let the waffles rest for a minute before serving to allow them to set properly.
- Prep Time: 2 hours (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Frying and Waffle Making
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Spicy Honey Butter Chicken Waffles, Chicken and Waffles, Brunch Recipe