If you have ever dreamed of the perfect harmony between sweet and savory, you are going to fall head over heels for this Chicken Waffles with Blueberry Syrup Recipe. Imagine crispy, juicy fried chicken perched on fluffy, golden waffles, all brought together with a luscious, homemade blueberry syrup that bursts with fruity brightness. This dish combines comforting Southern flavors with a delightful fruity twist that’s as impressive as it is easy to make, turning any brunch or dinner into something unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Waffles with Blueberry Syrup Recipe keeps things simple with ingredients that work magic together. Each one plays an essential role—from the tender buttermilk marinade to the fragrant spices in the fried chicken, the fluffy textured waffles, and the sweet tang of the blueberry syrup. Let’s dive into these flavor-packed components!
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Perfectly tender and juicy when marinated and fried.
- Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and adds subtle tang for unforgettable flavor.
- Hot sauce (optional): Adds a gentle kick to balance the sweetness.
- All-purpose flour: Used for both the fried chicken coating and waffle base for structure and crispiness.
- Paprika and garlic powder: Bring warmth and depth to the chicken’s seasoning.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures a crispy, golden crust without overpowering flavors.
- Waffle ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, milk, eggs, melted butter or oil, vanilla extract): Combined to create light and fluffy waffles with a hint of sweetness and aroma.
- Blueberries (fresh or frozen): Naturally sweet and tangy, they give the syrup its vibrant color and taste.
- Maple syrup: Adds rich natural sweetness that complements the berries and chicken perfectly.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the syrup with fresh acidity.
- Cornstarch slurry (optional): Thickens the syrup for a perfect drizzle consistency.
How to Make Chicken Waffles with Blueberry Syrup Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing buttermilk and a splash of hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous. Submerge your chicken pieces into this cozy bath and let them soak in all the tangy goodness for at least 30 minutes or overnight if you can plan ahead. This simple step guarantees that juicy, tender chicken that’s packed with flavor and never dry.
Step 2: Make the Blueberry Syrup
While the chicken is working its magic in the fridge, whip up your blueberry syrup. Combine blueberries, maple syrup, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice in a small saucepan. Simmer gently so the berries burst and release their beautiful juices. If you like your syrup thicker, stir in the cornstarch mixture and keep it simmering a bit longer until luscious and perfect for drizzling.
Step 3: Prepare the Waffles
Next, let’s get those waffles ready. Mix the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt—in one bowl. In another, whisk the wet ingredients together: milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Combine these two mixtures just until blended to keep your waffles airy and tender. Cook them in a preheated waffle iron until golden and steaming with warmth.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat your oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, mix flour and spices to create a flavorful coating. Remove the chicken from that dreamy buttermilk marinade, toss each piece in the seasoned flour, and fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until they’re irresistibly crispy and golden brown. Drain them on paper towels to keep them crisp and ready for assembly.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Here’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Place a crispy piece of fried chicken on top of each warm waffle, then generously drizzle with that vibrant blueberry syrup. The combination looks stunning and tastes like a dream, perfect for an impressive brunch or a cozy weekend dinner.
How to Serve Chicken Waffles with Blueberry Syrup Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Chicken Waffles with Blueberry Syrup Recipe by adding fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a handful of fresh blueberries to echo the syrup. A few mint leaves add a pop of color and a fresh aroma that brightens every bite, making the dish even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing this dish with some simple yet complementary sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully, or serve alongside roasted vegetables to add a savory and hearty dimension. Crispy sweet potato fries are another winner, offering familiar comfort flavors that everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the waffles stacked high with multiple layers of chicken and syrup, like a showstopping tower. You can also create individual mini waffle sliders topped with bite-sized chicken pieces, perfect for sharing at brunch parties. Serving the blueberry syrup in a small pitcher for guests to drizzle themselves adds an interactive and elegant vibe to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the fried chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps textures intact and flavors fresh so you can enjoy the full magic of this Chicken Waffles with Blueberry Syrup Recipe later.
Freezing
Both the waffles and cooked chicken freeze beautifully if you want to prep ahead. Cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing in freezer bags. Blueberry syrup can also be frozen in small containers. When you thaw and reheat, you will still taste almost like fresh!
Reheating
Reheat waffles and chicken in the oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness instead of using the microwave. Warm the blueberry syrup gently on the stove or in the microwave before drizzling, and you’re all set to enjoy leftovers that taste just as good as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well in this Chicken Waffles with Blueberry Syrup Recipe. Just take care not to overcook them to keep your chicken juicy and tender.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Yes, try baking the chicken instead of frying for a lighter version. You can also use whole wheat flour in the waffles and go easy on the syrup for reduced sugar.
Can I prepare the blueberry syrup in advance?
Definitely! Making the blueberry syrup ahead saves time and lets the flavors deepen. Just reheat gently before serving to keep it smooth and delicious.
What’s the best waffle iron to use?
Any standard waffle iron that produces thick, golden waffles is perfect for this recipe. Non-stick varieties make cleanup easier and help you get that beautiful golden finish.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for frying and waffles. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free too, and you’ll have a tasty gluten-free version of this Chicken Waffles with Blueberry Syrup Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Waffles with Blueberry Syrup Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings joy to every meal. Its blend of crispy chicken, soft waffles, and sweet-tart syrup is simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a special brunch idea or a cozy dinner with friends, give this recipe a try—you’ll be making it again and again before you know it!
Print
Chicken Waffles with Blueberry Syrup Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern-Inspired
Description
Delight in this Southern-inspired Chicken Waffles with Blueberry Syrup recipe featuring crispy fried chicken, fluffy homemade waffles, and a sweet, tangy blueberry syrup. Perfect for brunch or a special dinner that balances sweet and savory deliciously.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Waffles:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Blueberry Syrup:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk and optional hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to tenderize and flavor the chicken.
- Make the Blueberry Syrup: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the blueberries, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Allow to simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes until the blueberries burst. For a thicker syrup, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to keep warm.
- Prepare the Waffles: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, eggs, melted butter or oil, and vanilla extract. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just blended. Preheat the waffle iron and cook the batter according to the manufacturer’s instructions until the waffles are golden brown and crisp.
- Fry the Chicken: In a shallow dish, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk marinade, dredge them thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, then fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the fried chicken onto paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Assemble: Place a piece of the crispy fried chicken onto each freshly cooked waffle. Generously drizzle with the warm blueberry syrup and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a lighter version, bake the chicken instead of frying.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the waffle batter for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
- The blueberry syrup can be made ahead of time and reheated gently before serving.
