Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites

Name: Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 bites
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons melted butter; Maple syrup or honey; Optional: Hot sauce for drizzling

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love the combination of savory and sweet in these Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites. The crispy chicken pairs perfectly with the fluffy waffles, creating a delightful bite-sized treat that's perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a brunch with friends, these little bites bring both fun and flavor to the table. I often serve them with a drizzle of maple syrup or a spicy honey sauce, making them irresistible. Once you try them, you'll see why I can’t get enough!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-17T14:54:27.742Z

When I first made these Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites, I was amazed at how quickly they disappeared! The mix of textures is delightful; the crispy chicken contrasts beautifully with the soft, fluffy waffles. It took a few tries to find the right balance, but now I've mastered it. A little sprinkle of seasoning on the chicken goes a long way in enhancing the flavors.

The method I use ensures that each bite has just the right amount of both chicken and waffle. By using a mini waffle maker, you can control the size and create consistent bites that are easy to manage. Paired with honey or maple syrup, they become a flavorful treat I can't resist!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy, juicy chicken in every bite
Fluffy waffles offer the perfect contrast
Versatile for breakfast, brunch, or appetizers

      

Perfecting the Waffle Texture

Achieving the ideal waffle texture is crucial for these Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites. Aim for a batter that’s slightly lumpy; overmixing can lead to dense waffles. You want the waffles to be light and fluffy with a crisp exterior. Using a mini waffle maker not only cooks faster but also helps maintain the correct ratio of chicken to waffle, giving each bite perfect balance.

Additionally, consider letting the batter rest for about 5 minutes before using it. This allows the flour to absorb moisture, resulting in a smoother consistency that yields airy waffles. When cooking, keep an eye on the cooking time; ideally, each waffle should take about 3-5 minutes, or until the exterior is golden brown with a crispy texture.

Frying Chicken to Perfection

Frying chicken can be intimidating, but achieving crispy, golden pieces is well worth it. Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for consistent frying. If the oil is too hot, the coating may burn before the chicken cooks through; too cool, and excess oil will be absorbed, leaving you with greasy pieces. Use a thermometer for accuracy and avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can drop the oil temperature and affect crispiness.

To prevent the coating from falling off during frying, make sure each piece of chicken is coated evenly and let them rest for a minute before frying. This helps the flour adhere better. If you notice that the chicken is not browning, it may need a few more minutes or the oil might not be hot enough.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

For Chicken

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

For Waffles

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter

For Serving

Maple syrup or honey
Optional: Hot sauce for drizzling

Once you have everything ready, we can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces and buttermilk. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes to ensure they're tender and flavorful.

Prepare the Chicken Coating

In another bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat each piece of marinated chicken thoroughly in the flour mixture.

Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Make the Waffles

In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter. Combine the two mixtures until just combined.

Cook Waffles

Preheat your mini waffle maker. Pour a small amount of batter, then add a piece of fried chicken on top before covering with more batter. Cook until golden brown.

Serve

Drizzle with maple syrup or honey and serve warm for an irresistible appetizer or brunch dish!

Enjoy your delicious bites with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding spices to your chicken marinade or experimenting with different types of syrup.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While maple syrup is a classic accompaniment, consider offering a variety of toppings. Spicy honey adds a delightful kick, while a creamy garlic aioli can provide a savory contrast. For an elegant touch, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro over the bites for a pop of color and flavor.

You can also experiment with the waffle flavors by adding ingredients like cinnamon or vanilla extract to the batter. For a savory twist, consider incorporating shredded cheddar or diced jalapeños into the waffle mix. These small adjustments can elevate your Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites and surprise your guests.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're preparing for a gathering, consider making the chicken and waffles ahead of time. You can fry the chicken and freeze it, then reheat in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again. The waffles also freeze well; just separate each with parchment paper and store in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, pop them in a toaster for a quick crisp-up.

For the best texture, store leftovers separately in an airtight container. Reheat the chicken in the oven to maintain its crispness and microwave the waffles if you prefer a softer texture. Just remember that adding moisture while reheating can make them soggy, so modified methods help retain their original crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the waffles ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the waffles ahead of time and reheat them in the toaster for a crispy finish.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice; let it sit for 5 minutes.

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating and frying.

→ How do I keep the chicken crispy?

To maintain crispiness, keep the fried chicken on a wire rack instead of on paper towels before assembling.