These Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders are the perfect bite-sized treat! With crispy chicken tucked between fluffy waffles, they make a fun and tasty meal or snack.
Who wouldn’t love a mini twist on a classic? I like to drizzle a bit of syrup on mine for that sweet flavor. Trust me, you’ll want to make these for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for both the waffles and chicken dredge. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend or almond flour for a different taste.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness. If you don’t have it, you can make a quick substitute by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, letting it sit for about 10 minutes.
Chicken Tenders: Chicken tenders are great for frying, but you can use boneless chicken thighs or even leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. Just adjust the cooking method as needed.
Spices: The paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder bring flavor. You can swap these for your favorite seasoning blend or add some Italian herbs for a different twist.
Maple Syrup: While maple syrup is traditional, you could also try honey or a flavored syrup if you want to switch things up.
How Can You Ensure Your Chicken is Crispy and Juicy?
Getting your chicken crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside is key. Here are some tips:
- Marinate well: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps break down fibers, making it tender.
- Dredge correctly: When coating, make sure to cover all surfaces well. Shake off excess flour to avoid clumps.
- Oil temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough (350°F) before adding chicken. Too cool will lead to soggy chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature. Overcrowding lowers the heat and can result in steaming instead of frying.
- Drain properly: Placing fried chicken on paper towels helps absorb excess oil, keeping it crispy.
With these tips and ingredient insights, you’ll be set for delicious Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders that everyone will love! Enjoy!
How to Make Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mini Waffles:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Non-stick spray or melted butter for the waffle iron
For the Fried Chicken:
- 1 pound chicken tenders or chicken breast strips
- 1 cup buttermilk (for marinade)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder (optional, for spice)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Fresh herbs (like microgreens or thyme) for garnish (optional)
- Toothpicks or small skewers to assemble sliders
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 1 hour to prepare, which includes about 10 minutes to make the batter for the waffles, 30 minutes to marinate the chicken, and around 20 minutes for frying and assembling the sliders. It’s quick enough for a fun meal or snack anytime!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make Mini Waffles:
Start by preheating your waffle iron and greasing it with non-stick spray or melted butter. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring just until mixed—don’t overmix! Pour a tablespoon of batter into the waffle iron to make mini waffles, around 3-4 inches each. Cook until golden and crispy, then set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare Fried Chicken:
While the waffles are cooling, prepare the chicken. In a bowl, whisk together the chicken tenders, buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and some salt and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to a few hours in the fridge for extra flavor). In a separate bowl, stir the flour with cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or cast-iron pan to 350°F (175°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture. Fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side, then drain on paper towels.
3. Assemble the Sliders:
Now it’s time to create those delicious sliders! Grab one mini waffle and use it as the base. You can add a dollop of maple syrup or a little melted butter on top if you like. Place a piece of your crispy fried chicken on the waffle, then drizzle with more maple syrup if desired. Top with another mini waffle to complete the slider. Secure everything together with a toothpick or small skewer, and garnish with fresh herbs if you like.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy these warm Mini Chicken and Waffle Sliders with family and friends! Each bite offers a perfect mix of crispy, sweet, and savory goodness.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it before marinating. It’s safest to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or you can use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker results. Pat it dry before marinating to ensure better flavor absorption.
Can I Make the Waffles in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mini waffles ahead of time. Just cook them and let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster or warm them in the oven until crispy again.
What Kind of Oil Should I Use For Frying?
For frying, use an oil with a high smoke point like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils are ideal because they won’t burn at high temperatures, ensuring your chicken gets crispy without overcooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, separate the components (chicken and waffles) and microwave them on a microwave-safe plate or warm in the oven. A toaster oven works great for restoring crispiness!
