When I heard about the limited-edition Chicken and Waffles being tested in select locations, my curiosity (and appetite) skyrocketed. I couldn’t wait to try it! But let’s face it—we can’t always make it out to those exclusive testing spots. That’s why I decided to take matters into my own hands and create a homemade version of Chick-fil-A Chicken and Waffles.
How to make Chick-fil-a Chicken and Waffles
Chick-fil-A Chicken and Waffles is a limited-time menu item from Chick-fil-A that combines their fried chicken with sweet, maple-flavored waffles.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pickle juice (for marinating)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Waffles:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 3/4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (to infuse the waffles)
For Serving:
- Butter
- Maple syrup
- Optional: applewood smoked bacon and honey butter spread
Instructions
Step 1: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour in the pickle juice. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
Step 2: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Remove the chicken from the pickle juice and pat dry with paper towels. Dip each piece into the buttermilk and then dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. Repeat the buttermilk and flour dredging for an extra-crispy coating.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat about an inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the chicken in batches, about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s directions. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Pour the batter onto the preheated waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crisp.
Step 5: Place a waffle on each serving plate, top with a piece of fried chicken, and add butter if desired. Drizzle with maple syrup and enjoy your Chick-fil-a Chicken and Waffles! Optionally, add crispy bacon and a honey butter spread for extra indulgence.
Tips
- Marinate Longer: For even juicier chicken, extend the marinating time.
- Double Dip: For exceptionally crispy chicken, ensure to double-dip in the buttermilk and flour mixture.
- Waffle Crispiness: For crispier waffles, cook them a little longer on a medium-high heat setting.
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper and other spices to tailor the heat level to your liking.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken coating and waffle batter ahead of time. Just make sure to store them properly in the fridge.
What to serve with
While Chick-fil-a Chicken and Waffles is already a flavorful and satisfying dish on its own, pairing it with complementary sides, beverages, and even sauces can turn your meal into a restaurant-worthy experience.
- Smoked Bacon or Sausages: Crispy applewood smoked bacon or savory breakfast sausages are perfect additions. The smoky flavor complements the sweetness from the waffles and richness of the fried chicken.
- Homemade Mac & Cheese: Creamy mac & cheese makes for a decadent side that pairs wonderfully with the crispy chicken. Opt for a rich, cheesy recipe with a breadcrumb topping for added crunch.
- Southern-Style Grits: Serve cheesy or buttery grits for a real Southern comfort food experience. The creamy texture of grits complements the crunchy fried chicken.
- Roasted or Fried Potatoes: Crispy roasted baby potatoes or seasoned home fries are another satisfying (and filling) accompaniment. You can season them with garlic, paprika, and rosemary for extra flavor.
Ingredients Substitutes
If you’re itching to make Chick-fil-a Chicken and Waffles but need ingredient substitutes due to dietary restrictions, preferences, or simply availability, here’s a detailed guide to substitutions that won’t compromise flavor or texture.
Substitutes for Fried Chicken
Pickle Juice Substitute
Why it matters: Pickle juice is key to Chick-fil-A’s signature tangy chicken flavor.
Alternatives: If you don’t have pickle juice:
- Use a mixture of 1/2 cup white vinegar, 1/2 cup water, and 1 teaspoon sugar for a similar tangy marinade.
- Lemon juice (mixed with water and a pinch of salt) can also mimic the acidic tenderness pickle juice provides.
Buttermilk Substitute
Why it matters: Buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and adds richness to its flavor.
Alternatives:
- Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 10 minutes to curdle—it works in a pinch as an alternative.
- Use plain yogurt or sour cream thinned with a little water.
All-Purpose Flour Substitute (For Gluten-Free Options)
Alternatives:
- Use gluten-free all-purpose flour blends (look for brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur).
- Almond flour or rice flour can recreate the crispness but might make the coating slightly heavier.
- For a Paleo-friendly version, use coconut flour mixed with arrowroot powder.
Vegetable Oil Substitute
Why it matters: Vegetable oil is ideal for achieving crispy, evenly fried chicken, but healthier alternatives are available.
Alternatives:
- Avocado oil: A healthier, high smoke-point oil, perfect for frying.
- Peanut oil: A staple in Southern cooking, this adds rich flavor (though unsuitable for those with nut allergies).
- Canola oil: A low-cost, neutral-flavored option that works well for frying.
Spice Substitute (Adjusting for Allergies or Heat Levels)
Why it matters: Chick-fil-A’s flavor comes from paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
Alternatives:
- For mild seasoning: Omit cayenne for less heat or use smoked paprika for a deeper, earthy flavor.
- For garlic/onion allergies: Try celery seed or ground mustard powder as substitutes.
Substitutes for Waffle Batter
All-Purpose Flour Substitute (For Gluten-Free Options)
Alternatives:
- Gluten-free flour blends work wonderfully for waffles.
- Almond flour or oat flour can produce a fluffy texture, though you may need to adjust the liquid-to-flour ratio, as these flours absorb more moisture.
- Buckwheat flour: For a distinct nutty flavor (though not everyone may enjoy this flavor).
Milk Substitute (For Dairy-Free Options)
Why it matters: Milk brings creaminess and moisture to the waffle batter.
Alternatives:
- Use unsweetened almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
- Cashew milk can add creaminess while keeping the flavor neutral.
Butter Substitute
Why it matters: Melted butter adds richness to waffle batter and helps achieve crispness.
Alternatives:
- Use coconut oil, avocado oil, or vegetable oil for dairy-free or vegan versions.
- If avoiding oils, use mashed avocado or Greek yogurt for moisture and richness.
Egg Substitute (For Vegans or Egg Allergies)
Why it matters: Eggs bind the batter and help waffles rise.
Alternatives:
- Flaxseed Meal: Mix 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons water to replace one egg. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens.
- Unsweetened applesauce: Replace 1 egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce.
- Commercial egg replacers like Bob’s Red Mill or Ener-G are quick, reliable substitutes.
Maple Syrup Substitute
Why it matters: Maple syrup infuses flavor into the waffle batter and serves as a topping.
Alternatives:
- Honey: A thick, sweet alternative that pairs well with chicken.
- Agave syrup: A mild-flavored option that works well as both a batter ingredient and topping.
- Brown sugar (melted in water): Boil 1 cup water with 1 cup brown sugar until a syrupy consistency forms—voilà, a maple syrup mimic!
Final Thoughts
By carefully selecting sides, sauces, and drinks that enhance the flavors of your Chick-fil-A Chicken and Waffles, you’ll create a meal that’s equal parts comforting, indulgent, and absolutely unforgettable.
More Chick-fil-A Recipes:
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pickle juice
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Vegetable oil
- For the Waffles:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 3/4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- For Serving:
- Butter
- Maple syrup
- Optional: applewood smoked bacon
Instructions
Step 1: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour in the pickle juice. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
Step 2: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Remove the chicken from the pickle juice and pat dry with paper towels. Dip each piece into the buttermilk and then dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it's well-coated. Repeat the buttermilk and flour dredging for an extra-crispy coating.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat about an inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the chicken in batches, about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's directions. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Pour the batter onto the preheated waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crisp.
Step 5: Place a waffle on each serving plate, top with a piece of fried chicken, and add butter if desired. Drizzle with maple syrup and enjoy your Chick-fil-a Chicken and Waffles! Optionally, add crispy bacon and a honey butter spread for extra indulgence.
