Perfect Pairings: What Goes With Chicken and Waffles?

Originally posted on November 18, 2023 @ 6:36 am

Chicken and waffles is a classic American dish that has been enjoyed for generations, but have you ever wondered what sides, sauces, and drinks best complement this sweet and savory combination? Look no further! In this article, we explore the best accompaniments for chicken and waffles, including both traditional and unique options that will take your meal to the next level.

Whether you prefer savory sides like mashed potatoes and collard greens or sweet sides like maple syrup and honey butter, we have something for everyone. And no chicken and waffles meal is complete without a delicious sauce, such as spicy sriracha aioli or classic gravy. We also provide refreshing drink pairings and creative serving suggestions that will make your dish stand out.

If you’re feeling adventurous, we even suggest some recipe variations that introduce exciting new flavors, such as Korean-style fried chicken and sesame waffles. And for those who want to perfect their cooking skills, we offer expert tips on achieving crispy, juicy chicken and fluffy, golden waffles.

So, whether you’re preparing for a cozy family dinner or a fancy brunch affair, we’ve got you covered with our guide to perfect pairings for chicken and waffles.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover the best sides, sauces, and drinks that complement chicken and waffles.
• Experiment with creative variations and serving suggestions for a unique twist on this classic dish.
• Perfect your cooking skills with expert tips on achieving crispy, juicy chicken and fluffy, golden waffles.
• Learn how to tailor your chicken and waffles experience to suit different occasions, from casual meals to special gatherings.
• Indulge in the sweet and savory combination of chicken and waffles with confidence and creativity.

Delicious Savory Sides for Chicken and Waffles

If you’re looking for the best sides for chicken and waffles, look no further than these savory accompaniments. These dishes will add depth and richness to your meal, making it a truly satisfying experience.

Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

A classic pairing, mashed potatoes and gravy add a comforting element to your chicken and waffles meal. The creamy potatoes and rich gravy complement the crispy chicken and fluffy waffles perfectly.

Collard Greens

Add a touch of Southern charm to your chicken and waffles dish with a side of collard greens. The slightly bitter greens balance out the sweetness of the waffles, while the smoky bacon and tangy vinegar give it a kick.

Crispy Bacon

Bacon makes everything better, and chicken and waffles are no exception. The salty, smoky flavor of bacon complements the sweet and savory components of the dish, adding an extra layer of crunch.

Mac and Cheese

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, pair your chicken and waffles with a side of mac and cheese. The rich, cheesy goodness of the mac and cheese balances out the crispy chicken and fluffy waffles, creating a harmonious flavor combination.

Sweet Potato Fries

Add a twist to your classic fries and pair your chicken and waffles dish with sweet potato fries. The sweetness of the fries complements the sweetness of the waffles, while the crispy texture adds a contrast to the soft waffles.

Garlic Green Beans

If you’re looking for a healthier option to pair with your chicken and waffles, garlic green beans are a delicious choice. The garlic adds a savory flavor to the fresh green beans, balancing out the sweetness of the waffles and the richness of the chicken.

With these delicious savory sides, your chicken and waffles meal will be a flavor-packed experience you won’t forget.

Delectable Sweet Sides for Chicken and Waffles

If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll love these sweet sides for chicken and waffles that will take your taste buds on a journey of delight. Whether you prefer traditional toppings or a unique twist to match your palate, these accompaniments will bring out the sweetness of the waffles and create a delicious balance with the savory chicken.

Maple Syrup and Honey Butter

Nothing beats the classic combination of maple syrup and butter, especially when paired with fluffy waffles and crispy fried chicken. Add a dollop of honey butter on top of the stack for an extra layer of sweetness and richness.

Fruit Compote

For a fruity twist, try serving your chicken and waffles with a homemade fruit compote. You can use any fruit you like, such as berries, peaches, or apples, and simmer them with sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice. The result is a burst of bright, sweet flavors that complement the tender chicken and fluffy waffles.

Cinnamon-Spiced Apples

If you’re a fan of cinnamon, this side dish is perfect for you. Cook sliced apples in a skillet with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until they’re tender and caramelized. Serve them on top of your chicken and waffles for a warm and comforting combination of flavors.

Banana Foster

For a decadent dessert-style twist on chicken and waffles, try making a banana foster sauce. Sauté sliced bananas in butter and brown sugar until they’re caramelized and tender, then add a splash of rum and ignite to create a flambe. Serve it over your crispy chicken and fluffy waffles for a sweet and boozy treat.

“These sweet sides take your classic chicken and waffles to the next level of flavor.”

Mouthwatering Sauces for Chicken and Waffles

No chicken and waffles meal is complete without a delicious sauce to top it off. The richness of the dish pairs perfectly with the tanginess or spiciness of a sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

Classic Gravy

A staple of Southern cuisine, classic gravy is a perfect sauce for chicken and waffles. Use the leftover drippings from frying the chicken to make a roux, add some chicken broth, and season with salt and pepper to create a rich and savory gravy that will complement the fluffy waffles and crispy chicken.

Maple Mustard Sauce

For a sweet and tangy twist, try a maple mustard sauce. Mix together dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil to create a perfectly balanced sauce that pairs well with the sweetness of the waffles and the saltiness of the chicken.

Spicy Sriracha Aioli

If you prefer some heat with your chicken and waffles, try a spicy sriracha aioli. Mix together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, honey, and lime juice to create a creamy and spicy sauce that will add an extra layer of flavor to your meal.

Honey Butter

If you’re in a rush and don’t have time to make a sauce from scratch, a simple honey butter can do the trick. Melt some butter and mix with honey to create a sweet and buttery sauce that will complement the flavors of the waffles and the chicken.

Whether you prefer classic or creative, sweet or spicy, there’s a sauce out there that will elevate your chicken and waffles to the next level. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and combinations to find the perfect sauce for you!

Refreshing Drink Pairings for Chicken and Waffles

Pairing the perfect drink with your chicken and waffles can be just as important as selecting the right sides and sauces. The right drink can balance out the flavors of the dish and refresh your palate. Here are some refreshing drink accompaniments to try with your chicken and waffles:

• Iced Tea: Classic and refreshing, iced tea is a great option for those who prefer a non-alcoholic beverage.
• Lemonade: A sweet and tangy lemonade can complement the sweetness of the waffles perfectly.
• Sangria: A light and fruity sangria can offer a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken and waffles.
• Beer: For those who prefer a cold beer, a crisp and light lager can be a great pairing with the richness of the dish.

No matter which drink you choose, make sure it complements the flavors of the chicken and waffles. For an extra touch, try adding fresh fruit or herbs to your drink for added flavor and visual appeal.

Exploring Recipe Variations for Chicken and Waffles

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try some exciting recipe variations for chicken and waffles? Here are some creative ideas to get you started:

Buffalo Chicken and Blue Cheese Waffles

Add some heat to your chicken and waffles by tossing the chicken in buffalo sauce and serving it on top of homemade blue cheese waffles. Sprinkle with scallions for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Korean-Style Fried Chicken and Sesame Waffles

Give your chicken and waffles an international twist by using Korean fried chicken and sesame waffles. Drizzle with a sweet and spicy sauce made with gochujang and honey for a taste explosion.

Jalapeno Cornbread Waffles and BBQ Chicken

Combine two classic Southern dishes by serving BBQ chicken with jalapeno cornbread waffles. Top with a dollop of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.

Chicken and Waffles Benedict

Transform your chicken and waffles into a luxurious brunch dish by topping the waffles with poached eggs, crispy chicken, and hollandaise sauce. Garnish with chives and enjoy!

Experiment with different ingredients and cooking methods to create your own unique chicken and waffles recipes. Who knows, you may even come up with the next viral sensation!

Creative Serving Suggestions for Chicken and Waffles

When it comes to serving chicken and waffles, the possibilities are endless. Impress your guests with these creative serving ideas:

1. Build a Waffle Tower

Stack your waffles and chicken on top of each other to create a tower. Top it with fresh herbs or fruit for added color and flavor.

2. Chicken and Waffles Sliders

Cut your waffles and chicken into smaller pieces to create mini sliders. Add a toothpick and a cherry tomato for a cute and easy-to-eat appetizer.

3. Brunch Board

Set up a brunch board with various toppings like whipped cream, syrup, fruit compote, and fried chicken tenders. Let your guests build their own personalized chicken and waffles dish.

Ingredients	Toppings
Fried chicken tenders	Whipped cream
Waffles	Syrup
Fruit compote	Fresh berries
Scrambled eggs	Butter

4. Waffle Cone Tacos

Swap out your tortillas for waffle cones and fill them with fried chicken and your favorite toppings like lettuce, cheese, and sauce.

5. Skewers

Thread your waffles and chicken onto skewers for a fun and easy-to-eat presentation. Drizzle with syrup or sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

With these creative serving suggestions, you can take your chicken and waffles experience to the next level. Get creative and have fun with it!

Flavor Combinations to Try with Chicken and Waffles

While chicken and waffles are a match made in food heaven, there’s always room to experiment with different flavor combinations to elevate your dish. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Spicy and Sweet: Add a kick to your chicken by seasoning it with cayenne pepper or hot sauce and serving it with sweet waffles drizzled with honey or maple syrup.
2. Savory and Tangy: Pair your chicken and waffles with a side of tangy coleslaw or pickles for a refreshing contrast to the savory dish.
3. Fruity and Savory: Top your waffles with a compote made from seasonal fruits like berries or figs, and serve it with a side of fried chicken for a unique and delicious combination of flavors.
4. Savory and Spiced: Season your chicken with herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika, and serve it with waffles sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar.
5. Crispy and Creamy: Top your chicken with a dollop of creamy avocado or sour cream and serve it with a side of crispy bacon for a mouthwatering combination of textures.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match different flavors to find your perfect pairing. With so many delicious options, the possibilities are endless!

Tips for Perfectly Cooking Chicken and Waffles

Preparing chicken and waffles requires different cooking techniques for each component, and timing is crucial. Follow these tips to ensure a delicious outcome:

Crispy and Juicy Chicken

• Brine the chicken before cooking to keep it moist and add flavor. Use a mixture of water, salt, sugar, and spices for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
• Pat dry the chicken before seasoning it with salt, pepper, and other preferred spices.
• For deep-fried chicken, use a deep pot with enough oil to submerge the chicken. Heat the oil to 350 – 375 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal crispiness.
• For oven-baked chicken, place the chicken on a wire rack on top of a baking sheet. Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 – 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Fluffy and Golden Waffles

• Use a waffle mix or make your own batter from scratch. Add ingredients in the following order: dry ingredients, wet ingredients, and egg whites (whipped to stiff peaks), folding them gently into the batter to keep the airiness.
• Preheat the waffle iron and spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
• Pour the batter onto the waffle iron, following the manufacturer’s instructions on the amount of batter and cooking time.
• Once the waffles are done, remove them from the iron and place them on a wire rack to avoid sogginess.

“The secret to perfectly cooked chicken and waffles lies in the timing, seasoning, and cooking method. Don’t rush the process and follow these expert tips to impress your taste buds.”– Chef John Doe

Pairing Chicken and Waffles for Different Occasions

Chicken and waffles is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for many occasions. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a special event, there are plenty of ways to tailor your chicken and waffles experience. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

Cozy Family Dinner

For a cozy family dinner, serve up classic chicken and waffles with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy. The creamy texture of the potatoes will perfectly complement the crispiness of the chicken, while the savory gravy will add depth of flavor to the dish.

Game Day Feast

For a game day feast, switch things up by turning your chicken and waffles into sliders. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces and sandwich them between mini waffles, adding some coleslaw or pickles for a refreshing crunch. These bite-sized snacks will be a hit with your friends and family.

Fancy Brunch Affair

If you’re hosting a fancy brunch affair, elevate your chicken and waffles by adding some smoked salmon and a poached egg on top. The richness of the salmon and the creaminess of the egg will complement the sweetness of the waffles and the spiciness of the chicken, creating a sophisticated flavor profile.

Conclusion

Thank you for taking the time to learn about the perfect pairings for chicken and waffles. We hope this guide has given you some new ideas to try and inspired you to get creative in the kitchen.

Remember, chicken and waffles is a classic American dish with endless possibilities. You can switch up the sides, sauces, and drinks to create your own unique flavor combinations. Don’t be afraid to experiment with recipe variations and serving suggestions to make your dish stand out.

Tips for Success

Before you get started, remember these tips to ensure your chicken and waffles turn out perfectly:

• Brine the chicken for extra flavor and juiciness.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked.
• Be patient when cooking the waffles – they are ready when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and fluffy on the inside.
• Experiment with different flour types and ratios to find the perfect waffle batter.

Enjoying Chicken and Waffles for Every Occasion

Whether it’s a lazy Sunday breakfast, a midweek dinner, or a special occasion, chicken and waffles is a perfect meal for any time. Try serving it as a brunch board with a variety of toppings, as sliders for a game day feast, or as a fancy dinner dish with champagne.

However you choose to enjoy it, we hope you have fun, get creative, and savor every bite of this classic American dish.