Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly marries the comfort of Southern cuisine with a spicy twist! Imagine sinking your teeth into crispy, golden-brown fried chicken, perfectly paired with fluffy cornmeal waffles that soak up every drop of syrup. This Spicy Fried Chicken Cornmeal Waffles recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're planning a weekend brunch or a cozy dinner, this dish promises to deliver a flavor explosion that will leave everyone raving. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to impress with this irresistible combination!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Waffle batter (for 4 waffles)
- Syrup for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, marinate chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight) in the refrigerator to tenderize and enhance flavor.
- In a separate shallow dish, mix all-purpose flour, cornmeal, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a spicy breading mixture.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each chicken thigh thoroughly in the seasoned flour-cornmeal mixture, ensuring complete and even coating.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet to 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain consistent temperature.
- Carefully place breaded chicken thighs into hot oil, frying for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While chicken is frying, prepare waffle batter according to your preferred recipe. Preheat waffle iron to medium-high heat.
- Pour waffle batter into preheated waffle iron and cook until crispy and golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Remove fried chicken from oil and let drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Place a freshly made waffle on each plate, top with a fried chicken thigh, and drizzle with warm maple syrup.
- Garnish with optional chopped chives or hot sauce for extra flavor and serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, marinate your chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least an hour, but overnight is even better. This step not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a rich flavor.
- Get the Right Frying Temperature: Use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect crispy texture without becoming greasy.
- Double-Dip for Extra Crispiness: For an even crunchier coating, consider dipping the chicken in the buttermilk again after the first dredge in the flour-cornmeal mixture, then dredging it a second time.
- Keep Waffles Warm: If you're making multiple batches of waffles, keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish frying the chicken to ensure everything is served hot.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the cayenne or add a pinch of sugar to balance the heat.
- Serve with Style: For an extra touch, garnish your dish with chopped chives or a splash of hot sauce before drizzling with syrup. This adds both color and an extra layer of flavor to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
