Chicken & Waffles from Slim Chickens feature crispy, golden-brown fried chicken paired with fluffy, warm waffles, drizzled with sweet maple syrup, delivering a savory and sweet comfort food experience.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Waffle maker
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Ladle
- Baking sheet
- Cooling rack
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken tenders
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (for waffles)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs (for waffles)
- 1 3/4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Maple syrup
Ensure you use fresh chicken tenders that are properly trimmed for even cooking and optimal crispiness. The combination of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in the flour mixture is key to achieving the signature bold flavor of the fried chicken. When preparing waffles, measure ingredients accurately to maintain the perfect balance between fluffiness and sweetness. Use buttermilk in the chicken batter for tenderization and enhanced flavor, while the vegetable oil should reach the right temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken. Your Chicken & Waffles from Slim Chickens copycat menu will closely match the original's crispy, golden-brown fried chicken paired with fluffy waffles and sweet maple syrup when these ingredient tips are followed.
Instructions
- Preheat the deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and buttermilk.
- Dredge chicken tenders in the flour mixture, dip in the egg mixture, then dredge again in the flour mixture.
- Place coated chicken on a baking sheet.
- Using tongs, carefully lower chicken into the hot oil.
- Fry chicken in batches until golden-brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
- Remove chicken and drain on a cooling rack.
- Preheat the waffle maker.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, sugar, baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and whisk until just combined.
- Ladle batter into preheated waffle maker and cook until waffles are golden and crisp.
- Place hot waffles on a cooling rack.
- Plate fried chicken atop warm waffles.
- Drizzle generously with maple syrup.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Chicken & Waffles from Slim Chickens copycat menu combines crispy fried chicken with tender waffles, topped with sweet maple syrup for a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. You can substitute boneless chicken thighs for tenders if you prefer juicier meat or need a more budget-friendly option. Buttermilk in the chicken marinade can be replaced with plain yogurt or milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar to maintain tenderness. If you don't have a deep fryer, use a heavy-bottomed skillet for frying and ensure the oil temperature stays consistent to achieve optimal crispiness. For waffles, if you lack buttermilk, a mixture of milk and lemon juice or vinegar works well to activate the baking powder.
Tips
Ensure your oil temperature remains steady at 350degF (175degC) to achieve perfectly crispy chicken without greasiness or undercooking. When dredging the chicken, double-coating with flour and egg mixture creates a flavorful, crunchy crust that holds during frying. Whisk waffle batter just until combined to avoid tough, dense waffles; a few lumps are okay. Serve your Chicken & Waffles immediately to enjoy optimal texture--crispy chicken alongside fluffy waffles with the sweetness of fresh maple syrup.
Nutritions
Chicken & Waffles from Slim Chickens provide a rich combination of protein from 1 lb of boneless chicken tenders and energy from 2 cups of all-purpose flour in both chicken batter and waffles. The dish contains essential fats from 1/2 cup melted butter and 2 cups vegetable oil used in frying, contributing to calorie density. Maple syrup adds simple sugars, enhancing sweetness but increasing overall sugar content. You should enjoy this indulgent comfort food in moderation due to its balance of macronutrients and added sugars.
Storage
Store leftover fried chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers to maintain crispness. Refrigerate your chicken for up to 3 days and waffles for up to 2 days; reheat chicken in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for 10 minutes and waffles in a toaster or oven to restore their texture. Ensure both components reach an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) before serving to guarantee food safety.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, try marinating your chicken tenders overnight in buttermilk and hot sauce to add extra tang and spice. Swap out the all-purpose flour in the chicken coating for a mixture of cornstarch and flour to achieve an even crispier crust. You can enhance your waffles by folding in cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor. Substitute maple syrup with honey or spicy sriracha honey for a unique twist on sweetness and heat.
Allergies
Chicken & Waffles from Slim Chickens contain common allergens including eggs, milk (in buttermilk, milk, and butter), and wheat (all-purpose flour). The dish also includes spices that could potentially trigger sensitivities in some individuals. You should inform restaurant staff of any allergies to avoid cross-contamination or harmful reactions.
Why this recipe?
Slim Chickens' Chicken & Waffles menu is cherished for its perfect harmony of crispy, tender fried chicken paired with fluffy, golden waffles, delivering a satisfying blend of savory and sweet flavors. The dish is crafted with high-quality ingredients, including freshly seasoned chicken and batter-made waffles, ensuring a flavorful and comforting experience. You'll find unique house-made syrups and sides that elevate every bite, making it a standout meal worth recreating at home. Copycat versions allow you to enjoy this popular Southern-inspired comfort food whenever you crave that distinctive taste and texture combination.