Chicken & Waffle Sliders

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few combinations are as iconic as chicken and waffles. But what if we could take that classic duo to the next level, making it easier to serve at gatherings or even as a fun, portable meal? That’s where Chicken & Waffle Sliders come in! These bite-sized delights are packed with crispy fried chicken, perfectly seasoned waffles, and a drizzle of syrup, all in a handheld size. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, planning a family dinner, or just craving a snack, these sliders are sure to hit the spot. Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with this delicious twist on a beloved classic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for Chicken & Waffle Sliders. Here are just a few:

• Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The crispy chicken paired with fluffy waffles and a sweet syrup drizzle makes for an irresistible combination.
• Portable and Bite-Sized: These sliders are ideal for parties, picnics, or any occasion where you want to serve something delicious and easy to eat.
• Crowd-Pleasing: With familiar flavors and a fun twist, everyone from kids to adults will love them.
• Quick to Make: You can whip these up in no time, whether you’re using store-bought waffles or making them from scratch.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the toppings, add a little heat with some hot sauce, or even make mini waffle sandwiches!
• Great for Any Time of Day: Serve these sliders for brunch, lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. They’re versatile and fit into any meal plan.
• No Forks Needed: The sliders are handheld, making them perfect for casual dining or parties where utensils are optional.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love these mini sandwiches, and you can even let them get involved in the assembly process.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the sliders ahead of time and warm them up right before serving for an easy, stress-free meal.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 12 sliders
• Calories per slider: Approximately 300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 14g, Fat: 12g, Carbohydrates: 34g, Fiber: 2g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these mouthwatering Chicken & Waffle Sliders:

For the Chicken:

• 12 small boneless chicken tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Waffles:

• 1 box frozen mini waffles (or make your own)
• 1 tbsp butter, melted
• Maple syrup, for drizzling

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Tenders: The crispy chicken is the star of the show, and using tender pieces ensures they’re easy to eat in slider form.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra-crispy coating that perfectly complements the fluffy waffles.
• Mini Waffles: Bite-sized waffles make these sliders fun and easy to assemble. You can use store-bought or homemade, depending on your preference.
• Maple Syrup: The perfect finishing touch to bring everything together with just the right amount of sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Set Up Your Dredging Stations: In three shallow bowls, place flour mixed with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in one bowl. In the second, place the beaten eggs. In the third, place the panko breadcrumbs.
2. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender first into the flour mixture, then into the eggs, and finally coat with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure they stick.
3. Fry the Chicken: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the chicken tenders in the oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

2: Prepare the Waffles

1. Toast the Waffles: While the chicken is frying, toast your mini waffles according to package instructions, or if you’re using homemade waffles, cook them until golden brown and crispy.
2. Butter the Waffles: Brush each waffle with a little melted butter to enhance the flavor and give them a nice glossy finish.

3: Assemble the Sliders

1. Assemble the Sliders: Place one waffle on a serving platter, then top with a fried chicken tender. Drizzle with maple syrup, and then add another waffle on top to complete the slider.
2. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the sliders immediately, and enjoy the crispy chicken, fluffy waffles, and sweet syrup all in one bite!

How to Serve

Here are some fun serving ideas to make your Chicken & Waffle Sliders even more special:

1. Serve on a Platter: Arrange the sliders on a large serving platter for a beautiful presentation.
2. Add a Side: Pair with a side of crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad to balance out the richness.
3. Family-Style: Place the sliders on a tray or cutting board and let everyone grab their own.
4. Mini Slider Bar: Set up a slider bar with different toppings and sauces, such as hot sauce, pickles, or jalapeños.
5. Make It a Meal: Serve a few sliders per person, along with some sides, for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

To make the most of your Chicken & Waffle Sliders, keep these tips in mind:

1. Customize the Waffles: Try using flavored waffles, such as cinnamon or chocolate chip, for an extra kick.
2. Add Spice: Spice things up by adding a drizzle of hot sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken batter.
3. Try Buttermilk: For even juicier chicken, marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for 30 minutes before dredging and frying.
4. Keep the Chicken Crispy: To keep your fried chicken crispy, serve the sliders immediately after assembling. If you need to make them ahead, you can keep the chicken warm in the oven at a low temperature.
5. Make Your Own Waffles: If you have the time, homemade waffles will take your sliders to the next level.
6. Keep It Simple: If you’re in a rush, store-bought frozen mini waffles and chicken tenders work just as well and save time.

Recipe Variations

Here are a few ways to mix up your Chicken & Waffle Sliders:

• Spicy Chicken: Add a little heat to the chicken by seasoning the flour with cayenne pepper or paprika for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and waffles to make these sliders suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with crispy fried cauliflower or a veggie patty for a meat-free version.
• Add Cheese: Top each slider with a slice of cheddar or pepper jack cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
• Maple Bacon: Add crispy bacon strips inside the sliders for a savory twist.

Freezing and Storage

To make these sliders ahead of time, follow these storage tips:

• Storage: Leftover sliders can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the fried chicken tenders and mini waffles separately. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven.
• Reheat the Sliders: To reheat sliders, wrap them in foil and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Special Equipment

Here are some helpful tools for making Chicken & Waffle Sliders:

• Frying Pan: For frying the chicken tenders.
• Tongs: To flip the chicken and remove it from the oil.
• Toaster or Waffle Iron: To toast or make your waffles.
• Serving Tray: To display the sliders for a party or gathering.

FAQ Section

Got questions about making Chicken & Waffle Sliders? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some commonly asked questions to help you get the most out of this recipe:

How can I make the sliders spicier?
If you’re a fan of spice, there are plenty of ways to kick up the heat! You can add sliced jalapeños to each slider, drizzle on some hot sauce, or even incorporate cayenne pepper into your seasoning mix for the chicken tenders. Another great idea is to spread a spicy sriracha mayo on the waffles to give your sliders that extra zing.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders instead of homemade ones?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, frozen chicken tenders are a convenient and tasty substitute. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking them to get that perfect crispy texture. However, homemade chicken tenders do bring that extra flavor and crunch, so if you have the time, I’d recommend making them from scratch for the best results.

Can I make the waffles ahead of time?
Yes, you can! In fact, making the waffles ahead of time is a great way to save time when putting everything together. Just cook the waffles, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to assemble the sliders, simply reheat them in the toaster or oven for that fresh, crispy texture.

What other sauces can I use besides maple syrup?
The possibilities are endless! While maple syrup is a classic pairing, you can mix things up with other sauces to suit your taste. Honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, or even barbecue sauce can bring an exciting twist to your sliders. If you love a little heat, try a sweet chili sauce for a balance of spicy and sweet.

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Conclusion

Chicken & Waffle Sliders are a fun and delicious twist on a beloved comfort food. Whether you’re serving them for brunch, dinner, or just as a snack, these bite-sized sandwiches are sure to be a hit with everyone. They’re crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media – I love seeing your delicious creations!