Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites

Chloe

Nurturing taste buds (and souls) with every recipe.

Honestly, I can’t even begin to tell you how much of a hit these Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites were at my last get-together. I was looking for something a little different from the usual chips and dip, and these little guys completely stole the show! From the moment I set the platter down, they were disappearing at lightning speed. My picky-eater nephew, who usually avoids anything that isn’t plain pasta, devoured at least five of them! The combination of the crispy, savory chicken with the slightly sweet, fluffy waffle is just unbelievably addictive. And the best part? They are surprisingly easy to make! If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a fun brunch addition, or even just a tasty snack, you absolutely must try these Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites. Trust me, you’ll be making them again and again.

Ingredients

Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast, the star of our savory bites. Provides lean protein and a delicious, meaty texture.
Mini Waffles: Frozen mini waffles, the perfect bite-sized vessel for our chicken. Choose your favorite brand and flavor – plain, buttermilk, or even cinnamon will work!
Buttermilk: Used to marinate the chicken, buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds a subtle tang.
All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of our crispy coating, ensuring a golden-brown and crunchy exterior.
Cornstarch: Adds extra crispiness to the chicken coating, creating a light and airy texture.
Spices (Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Black Pepper, Salt, Cayenne Pepper): A blend of spices to season the chicken and create a flavorful, savory profile with a hint of warmth. Paprika adds color and mild smokiness, garlic and onion powder provide savory depth, black pepper and salt enhance the overall flavor, and cayenne pepper adds a touch of heat.
Vegetable Oil: For frying the chicken, vegetable oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, perfect for achieving crispy results.
Maple Syrup: The classic pairing for chicken and waffles! Pure maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory chicken.
Hot Sauce (Optional): For those who like a little kick, hot sauce adds a spicy dimension to the maple syrup drizzle. Choose your favorite brand and heat level.
Fresh Parsley (Optional): For garnish, chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. You want them to be small enough to sit comfortably on top of a mini waffle. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and pour buttermilk over them, ensuring all pieces are coated. This buttermilk marinade is key to tenderizing the chicken and adding flavor. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for even better flavor and tenderness. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and juicy your chicken will be.
Prepare the Coating: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the dry coating. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Ensure all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. The cornstarch is essential for achieving that extra crispy texture that makes these bites so irresistible.
Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess buttermilk drip off. Do not pat the chicken dry, as the moisture from the buttermilk helps the flour mixture adhere. Working in batches, dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated on all sides. Press the flour mixture lightly onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well. Set the coated chicken pieces aside on a plate or baking sheet.
Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces, about 1-2 inches deep. To test if the oil is hot enough, carefully drop a small pinch of the flour mixture into the oil – it should sizzle immediately and turn golden brown within seconds. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy, less crispy chicken. Fry the chicken for about 4-6 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Drain the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked and golden brown, remove it from the skillet using a slotted spoon or tongs and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. The wire rack allows air to circulate around the chicken, keeping it crispy on all sides, rather than becoming soggy from sitting directly on paper towels.
Prepare the Waffles: While the chicken is frying, prepare the mini waffles according to package instructions. You can toast them in a toaster, toaster oven, or even a regular oven until they are heated through and slightly crispy. If you want extra crispy waffles, you can lightly brush them with melted butter and bake them in the oven for a few minutes longer.
Assemble the Bites: Once the chicken and waffles are ready, it’s time to assemble the Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites. Place a piece of fried chicken on top of each mini waffle. You can gently press the chicken down slightly to secure it to the waffle.
Drizzle with Syrup (and Hot Sauce): In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and hot sauce (if using). The hot sauce adds a wonderful kick that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup and the savory chicken. Drizzle the maple syrup mixture generously over the assembled chicken and waffle bites.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish the Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and crispy and the waffles are warm and fluffy. These bites are best enjoyed fresh, but can be kept warm in a low oven (200°F or 95°C) for a short period if needed.

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving – approximately 2 bites)

Servings: Approximately 15 servings (30 bites total)
Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories
Fat: 8-12g

Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used, waffle brand, and portion sizes. For accurate nutritional information, refer to product labels and use a nutrition calculator.

Preparation Time

Quick and Fun to Make!

The total preparation time for Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites is approximately 45 minutes, including:

Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes cutting chicken, marinating, and preparing coating)
Cook Time: 25 minutes (includes frying chicken and toasting waffles)

This recipe is relatively quick and easy, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you need a delicious appetizer in a hurry. The marinating time is mostly hands-off, allowing you to prepare other aspects of your meal or relax while the flavors develop.

How to Serve

These Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways for different occasions:

As an Appetizer:
- Arrange them beautifully on a platter for parties and gatherings.
- Serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing and dipping.
- Consider offering a variety of dipping sauces alongside the maple syrup drizzle, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
For Brunch:
- Include them as part of a brunch spread alongside other breakfast favorites like eggs, bacon (or vegetarian alternatives), and fruit salad.
- Offer a build-your-own waffle bite bar with different toppings and sauces for a fun and interactive brunch experience.
Game Day Snacks:
- Perfectly portable and easy to eat while watching sports.
- Serve them with napkins and wet wipes for mess-free snacking.
Kid-Friendly Meal or Snack:
- Kids love the fun, bite-sized format and the sweet and savory flavor combination.
- Serve with a side of vegetables or fruit for a more balanced meal.
Elevated Presentation:
- For a more elegant presentation, drizzle the maple syrup using a squeeze bottle for a decorative effect.
- Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers in addition to parsley for a sophisticated touch.
- Serve on individual appetizer spoons or small plates for a refined look.

Additional Tips for Perfect Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites

Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When frying the chicken, work in batches and avoid overcrowding the skillet. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in less crispy and potentially greasy chicken. Give the chicken pieces space to fry evenly.
Maintain Oil Temperature: Monitor the oil temperature while frying. If the oil gets too hot, the chicken will brown too quickly on the outside and may be undercooked inside. If it’s not hot enough, the chicken will be greasy. Aim for a consistent medium-high heat (around 350°F or 175°C).
Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This is the best way to guarantee food safety and perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.
Make-Ahead Option (Chicken): You can fry the chicken ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or air fryer to crisp it up before assembling. This can save time when you’re preparing for a party. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, until heated through and crispy.
Air Fryer Chicken Option: For a healthier option, you can air fry the chicken instead of deep frying. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and air fry the coated chicken for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. The air fryer will still give you crispy chicken, but with less oil.
Spice Level Adjustment: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the coating to control the spice level. For a milder version, omit the cayenne pepper entirely. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicier paprika.
Waffle Variations: Get creative with your waffle choices! Try using cinnamon waffles for a sweeter twist, or savory waffles like cheddar or cornmeal waffles for a different flavor profile. You can also use homemade mini waffles if you prefer.
Dipping Sauce Bar: Offer a variety of dipping sauces to cater to different tastes. In addition to maple syrup and hot sauce, consider honey mustard, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, sriracha mayo, or a creamy avocado dip. Label each sauce clearly so guests know what they are choosing.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites

Q1: Can I make these Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites vegetarian?

A1: Absolutely! To make these vegetarian, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or halloumi cheese. Press the tofu to remove excess water, cut it into cubes, and marinate it in buttermilk (or a plant-based milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice for a similar effect) before coating and frying. Halloumi can be cut into cubes, lightly coated in flour mixture and pan-fried or grilled until golden. Consider using savory waffles and a honey-mustard or spicy mayo drizzle instead of maple syrup for a vegetarian version.

Q2: Can I use regular-sized waffles instead of mini waffles?

A2: Yes, you can use regular-sized waffles, but you will need to cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Quartering or even cutting each waffle into sixths would work well. Keep in mind that the presentation will be slightly different, but the delicious flavor will remain the same.

Q3: Can I make these ahead of time?

A3: You can prepare components ahead of time. The chicken can be fried and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to crisp it up before assembling. Waffles can also be toasted ahead of time and kept at room temperature. Assemble the bites just before serving for the best texture and flavor. Drizzling with syrup should also be done right before serving to prevent the waffles from becoming soggy.

Q4: How do I store leftover Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites?

A4: While best enjoyed fresh, leftover chicken and waffles can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Waffles can be reheated in a toaster or toaster oven. Keep in mind that they will not be as crispy as freshly made. It’s generally recommended to assemble and drizzle with syrup just before serving for optimal quality.

Q5: Can I freeze Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites?

A5: Freezing assembled Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites is not recommended as the waffles can become soggy upon thawing. However, you can freeze the fried chicken separately. Allow the fried chicken to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer until heated through and crispy. Prepare fresh waffles when ready to serve.

Q6: What are some other dipping sauce options besides maple syrup and hot sauce?

A6: There are many delicious dipping sauce options! Consider: honey mustard, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, sriracha mayo, spicy mayo, sweet chili sauce, a creamy avocado dip, or even a simple honey drizzle. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorites!

Q7: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

A7: While frying provides the best crispy texture, you can bake the chicken for a slightly healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and golden brown. The baked chicken will be less crispy than fried chicken, but still delicious.

Q8: What kind of waffles work best for this recipe?

A8: Mini frozen waffles are the most convenient and readily available option. Plain, buttermilk, or even cinnamon mini waffles all work well. You can also use homemade mini waffles or cut regular-sized waffles into smaller pieces. Choose waffles that are slightly sweet and have a good texture that will hold up well when topped with chicken and syrup.