If you have ever dreamed of the perfect Southern comfort meal that combines crispy, juicy chicken with fluffy, golden waffles topped off with a sweet and spicy kick, then you are in for a treat with this Homemade Fried Chicken ‘n’ Waffles with Jalapeno Honey Butter Sauce Recipe. It’s the ultimate harmony of textures and flavors, where every bite bursts with the savory crunch of fried chicken, the warm softness of waffles, and the tantalizing zing of jalapeno honey butter. This dish is as delightful to make as it is to eat, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for brunch, lunch, or dinner that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is like setting the stage for a culinary performance. Each component plays a vital role in balancing flavor, texture, and that irresistible southern charm that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicier and more flavorful than breasts, perfect for frying crispy on the outside and tender inside.
- Buttermilk: Essential for marinating the chicken to tenderize and infuse rich tangy notes.
- Spices (salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper): These add a beautiful spice and depth, creating that signature Southern fried chicken flavor.
- All-purpose flour and cornstarch: The magic duo that delivers the crisp, crunchy coating on the chicken.
- Vegetable oil: A neutral frying oil that heats evenly, ensuring crispy, golden perfection.
- Flour, sugar, baking powder, salt (for waffles): The dry ingredients that give your waffles a light, airy texture and just the right sweetness.
- Milk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract: These wet ingredients blend into a creamy batter that crisps up perfectly in your waffle iron.
- Honey, unsalted butter, jalapeno, salt (for jalapeno honey butter sauce): The star trio that combines sweet, spicy, and buttery goodness to crown your dish with unforgettable flavor.
How to Make Homemade Fried Chicken ‘n’ Waffles with Jalapeno Honey Butter Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by making your chicken irresistibly tender and flavorful. Combine the boneless, skinless chicken thighs with buttermilk and the vibrant mix of salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour, or better yet, overnight. This overnight soak allows the spices to deeply penetrate, ensuring every bite sizzles with seasoning.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating and Fry the Chicken
Mix together the all-purpose flour and cornstarch in a separate bowl for that perfect balance of crunch and lightness. Take each marinated chicken piece out, letting excess buttermilk drip off before dredging generously in the flour mixture. Heat about two inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat, then fry the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes per side until beautifully golden and cooked through. Let the cooked chicken drain on a paper towel-lined plate to keep it crisp and ready to wow.
Step 3: Whip Up the Waffles
Preheat your waffle iron and get ready for the fluffy cloud of goodness. In one bowl, combine the dry ingredients – flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Then gently fold the wet into the dry, stopping once just incorporated to keep waffles light and tender. Cook the batter in the preheated waffle iron until the waffles are golden and crisp – these will be your perfect base.
Step 4: Make the Jalapeno Honey Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the finely chopped and deseeded jalapeno, letting it sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in honey and salt and simmer for another minute so the flavors meld beautifully. This sauce is what turns the dish from wonderful to absolutely spectacular with its sweet and spicy flair.
How to Serve Homemade Fried Chicken ‘n’ Waffles with Jalapeno Honey Butter Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and add a fresh contrast, consider topping your creation with thinly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. For an extra pop of color, a few crisply fried shallots or a dash of smoked paprika on top feel just right. These small touches shine a spotlight on the flavors and textures waiting underneath.
Side Dishes
Classic Southern sides complement this dish brilliantly. Serve alongside creamy coleslaw, tangy pickles, or a simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. If you want to make it a full feast, some roasted sweet potatoes or braised greens like collards can bring an authentic touch of soul food to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond just stacking the chicken on waffles. You can make sliders by cutting waffles into smaller squares and topping with bite-sized fried chicken pieces, drizzled generously with the jalapeno honey butter sauce. Alternatively, layer the elements open-faced, letting the sauce pool artfully around the plate for dipping. Presentation is your chance to make this crowd-pleaser an eye-catching centerpiece at brunch or dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, keep the fried chicken and waffles in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This method maintains textures and flavors better than storing together. The jalapeno honey butter sauce can be stored in a small sealed jar or container.
Freezing
Both fried chicken and waffles freeze well when wrapped individually in plastic wrap and placed in freezer bags. Freeze the chicken and waffles flat so you can reheat them quickly. The sauce should be refrigerated only; it doesn’t freeze as well because of the butter content.
Reheating
To revive your leftovers, reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 15 minutes to restore crispiness without drying it out. Pop the waffles in a toaster or oven for a few minutes until warm and crisp. Warm the jalapeno honey butter sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave for a few seconds before drizzling.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless thighs?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken works wonderfully and adds extra flavor, but you’ll need to increase the frying time to ensure it cooks through while maintaining crispiness.
Is it necessary to deseed the jalapeno in the honey butter sauce?
Deseeding reduces the heat for a milder sauce, but if you love a bit more kick, feel free to leave some seeds in. Adjust according to your spice preference.
Can I substitute regular milk with a dairy-free option for the waffles?
Yes, plant-based milks like almond or oat milk can replace regular milk in equal amounts. The waffles will still come out deliciously fluffy.
How long can I marinate the chicken for?
While an hour is the minimum to tenderize and flavor the chicken, marinating overnight greatly enhances taste and juiciness, making it worth the wait.
Can I make the jalapeno honey butter sauce ahead of time?
You sure can! It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just warm it gently before serving to bring back that melted butter goodness.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the combination of crispy fried chicken, soft waffles, and the uniquely vibrant jalapeno honey butter sauce. This Homemade Fried Chicken ‘n’ Waffles with Jalapeno Honey Butter Sauce Recipe is a wonderful way to impress family and friends or treat yourself to a cozy, soul-satisfying meal. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make it your own – I promise you’ll love the smiles around the table!
