Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites

Name: Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons melted butter; Maple syrup for drizzling; Fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Celebration Table Recipes

I love the combination of sweet and savory flavors, and these Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites embody that perfectly. They make for a delightful snack or appetizer that impresses guests at any gathering. The crispy chicken paired with the fluffy waffles creates a satisfying bite that's hard to resist. Plus, the addition of maple syrup takes it to the next level, balancing the flavors beautifully. It’s a fun twist on a classic dish, and I can't wait to share this easy-to-follow recipe with you!

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-01-17T15:40:28.276Z

When I first tried making Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites, I was amazed at how something so simple could bring so much joy. The key to achieving the perfect balance was using a savory buttermilk batter for the chicken, which kept it incredibly moist and flavorful. Pairing that with warm, fluffy waffles creates a delightful contrast that feels indulgent yet comforting.

As I experimented with different toppings, I discovered that a drizzle of outstanding maple syrup elevates the dish even further. It’s a fun dish that reminds me of breakfast-for-dinner parties, and it's always a hit with family and friends!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory and sweet flavors that balance perfectly
Crispy chicken that pairs wonderfully with fluffy waffles
Fun and bite-sized, perfect for sharing at gatherings

      

Mastering the Chicken

When marinating the chicken, using buttermilk is key because it not only tenderizes the meat but also gives it a rich flavor. If you don't have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for about 5 minutes. After marinating for at least 15 minutes, the chicken will have absorbed the spices well, providing an incredibly savory bite once cooked.

Frying the chicken to a perfect golden brown is crucial for achieving that crispy texture. Make sure the oil is preheated to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the chicken; this helps to seal in juices and create a crunchy crust. Be vigilant and avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil’s temperature, which ensures even cooking. Aim for about 5-7 minutes per batch, monitoring for a golden crust to confirm doneness.

Getting the Waffles Just Right

The waffle batter should have a smooth consistency without any lumps, which is important for achieving that fluffy texture. When mixing the dry and wet ingredients, be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough waffles. Just whisk until everything comes together. If you're opting for a lighter version, consider substituting whole milk with almond or oat milk without compromising flavor.

Preheating your waffle iron properly is essential for perfect waffles. A well-heated iron will cook the batter evenly and give you crispy edges. Depending on your appliance, you might need to adjust the cooking time; it's generally around 3-5 minutes per batch. If you notice steam escaping for an extended period without the waffles cooking, raise the temperature slightly on your iron for better results.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving these Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites, presentation matters! Stack them on a platter with vibrant garnishes like finely chopped fresh chives for a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness. You can also drizzle with extra maple syrup on the side for guests to customize their bites with more sweetness.

For a fun twist, consider adding toppings such as a dollop of spicy aioli or hot sauce for those who enjoy a little heat. These bites also pair wonderfully with a side of pickled veggies for balance. If you have leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers; just reheat the chicken in an oven to maintain crispiness before assembling again.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful bites:

For the Chicken

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Waffles

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter

To Serve

Maple syrup for drizzling
Fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have everything measured and ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Waffle Batter

In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Then, whisk in the milk, egg, and melted butter until smooth.

Cook the Chicken

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Dredge the marinated chicken in flour and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Make Waffles

Preheat a waffle iron and pour the batter, cooking according to the manufacturer's instructions until golden and cooked through.

Assemble the Bites

Cut the waffles into bite-sized pieces. Stack a piece of waffle with a piece of chicken on top and drizzle with maple syrup.

Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, try adding a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade!

Make-Ahead Tips

To save time, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This enhances flavor absorption and allows for a quicker assembly on the day of serving. You can also prepare the waffle batter the night before, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge and allowing it to come to room temperature before cooking the next day.

If you want to enjoy these bites throughout the week, consider cooking extra chicken. After frying, let it cool completely and store it in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat the chicken in a hot skillet for a few minutes to re-crisp the exterior before serving again with freshly made waffles.

Flavor Variations

Feeling adventurous? You can experiment with different spices in the chicken marinade. Consider adding cayenne pepper for heat or dried herbs like thyme or oregano for a more aromatic profile. For the waffles, adding a splash of vanilla extract can elevate the sweetness and complement the chicken nicely.

For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend in both the chicken dredging and waffle batter. This will give you the same great texture while accommodating dietary preferences.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chicken isn't getting crispy, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. If it's not bubbling around the chicken, it’s likely too cool, which leads to greasy and soggy results. Always test the oil with a small piece of chicken first; if it sizzles immediately, you're good to go.

For waffles that are too dense, check your baking powder for potency—if it’s older than six months, it may not rise effectively. Also, remember not to overmix your batter, as this can lead to gumminess. Keeping the batter slightly lumpy is perfectly fine and will yield lighter, fluffier waffles.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a few hours before cooking and keep it in the refrigerator.

→ What type of syrup works best?

Pure maple syrup offers the best flavor, but any syrup you enjoy will work!

→ Can I use premade waffles?

Absolutely! You can simplify the process by using store-bought frozen waffles.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your buttermilk and syrup are gluten-free.