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Chicken and waffles have long occupied a revered place in the hearts and kitchens of comfort food enthusiasts. This delightful dish, known for its harmonious blend of savory and sweet flavors, combines crispy fried chicken with fluffy waffles, creating a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day. It’s no wonder this iconic pairing has gained immense popularity across the United States, often gracing brunch menus and family gatherings alike.

Golden Buttermilk Waffle Chicken Bites

Discover a delightful twist on a classic favorite with Golden Buttermilk Waffle Chicken Bites. This recipe perfectly marries crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles into bite-sized treats, ideal for sharing or snacking. Marinated to perfection and paired with a touch of maple syrup, these bites are packed with flavor and texture. Elevate your comfort food experience with this fun and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed any time of the day! Perfect for gatherings or a cozy meal.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup cornmeal

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 cup buttermilk

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup melted butter

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Oil for frying

Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: In a medium-sized bowl, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Toss the chicken until it is evenly coated with the spices. Allow it to marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature to let the flavors meld.

    Make the Waffle Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar. Whisk together until fully blended. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, milk, and melted butter until smooth.

      Combine Ingredients: Gently pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir with a spatula or wooden spoon just until combined. It’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy; avoid overmixing to keep the waffles fluffy.

        Cook the Chicken: In a deep skillet or fryer, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Working in small batches to avoid overcrowding, add the marinated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

          Create the Waffles: Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer's instructions and lightly coat it with non-stick cooking spray. For each batch, pour approximately 1/4 cup of waffle batter into the center of the waffle maker. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Continue this process until all of the batter is used.

            Assemble the Bites: Once the waffles are cooked, cut each waffle into bite-sized squares. For each serving, create stacks by layering one waffle square with a piece of crispy fried chicken on top. Drizzle with maple syrup just before serving for a touch of sweetness.

              Serve: Arrange your Golden Buttermilk Waffle Chicken Bites on a beautiful serving platter. For a pop of color, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired. Serve warm alongside extra maple syrup for dipping.

                Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6