If you love Southern cuisine, chances are you’ve heard of the mouth-watering combination of chicken and waffles. But can you make this delicious dish with bone-in chicken drumettes and wings? The answer is yes, and in this article, we’ll show you how to make the perfect chicken and waffles using this cut of chicken.
Tips for achieving the perfect crispy texture on chicken drumettes and wings
Before we dive into the specifics of making chicken and waffles, let’s talk about the key to success: achieving a crispy texture on your chicken. To do this, you will need to coat your chicken in a breading mixture that includes flour, cornstarch, and a variety of seasonings such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
When it comes to cooking the chicken, it’s important to use a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan with high sides to prevent oil splatters. Fry the chicken at a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes or until the meat is cooked through and the exterior is golden brown and crispy.
Another important tip for achieving a crispy texture on your chicken is to let it rest on a wire rack for a few minutes after frying. This allows any excess oil to drip off and prevents the breading from becoming soggy. Additionally, you can try using a combination of flour and cornstarch in your breading mixture, as the cornstarch helps to create a lighter and crispier coating.
The history of chicken and waffles: Where did this tasty combination come from?
The origins of chicken and waffles can be traced back to the early 1800s in the Southern United States. The dish was a popular breakfast option among African-American slaves who worked in the kitchen of plantation homes. They would use leftover fried chicken from the previous night’s dinner and serve it with waffles and syrup for a hearty morning meal.
Over time, chicken and waffles became a staple in Southern cooking and eventually made its way into restaurants and homes across the country.
Today, chicken and waffles has become a popular dish in many parts of the world, with variations that include different types of waffles, such as Belgian or sweet potato waffles, and different types of chicken, such as spicy or grilled chicken. Some restaurants even serve it as a savory dinner dish, with gravy or hot sauce on top. Despite its humble beginnings, chicken and waffles has become a beloved comfort food that continues to evolve and delight taste buds everywhere.
The best waffle recipes to pair with your bone-in chicken drumettes and wings
When it comes to pairing waffles with chicken, there are countless recipes to choose from. Some people prefer a traditional buttermilk waffle, while others opt for a sweet potato waffle or a savory cheddar cheese waffle.
One popular recipe involves adding bacon and cheddar cheese to the waffle batter for a salty and savory complement to the chicken. Another option is to add cinnamon and pecans to the batter for a sweet and nutty twist on the classic waffle.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try a spicy jalapeno and cornmeal waffle to add some heat to your chicken dish. Or, for a healthier option, you can make a gluten-free waffle using almond flour and coconut oil.
Step-by-step instructions for making chicken and waffles at home
To make chicken and waffles at home, you will need bone-in chicken drumettes and wings, flour, cornstarch, seasonings, waffle batter, and syrup.
1. Preheat your deep fryer or pan with oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Coat the chicken in the breading mixture and shake off any excess flour.
3. Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil and fry for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
4. While the chicken is frying, prepare your waffle batter according to your chosen recipe.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
6. Cook your waffles according to your chosen recipe.
7. To serve, place the chicken on top of the waffles and drizzle with syrup.
For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Simply coat the chicken in the breading mixture and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your chicken and waffles, try adding some hot sauce or honey mustard to the dish. You can also experiment with different types of waffles, such as sweet potato or cornmeal waffles, to give the dish a unique twist.
How to season bone-in chicken drumettes and wings for maximum flavor
When it comes to seasoning your chicken, the possibilities are endless. Some popular options include a classic Southern-style seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, or a spicy cajun seasoning with cayenne pepper and chili powder.
Another option is to use a honey garlic glaze for a sweet and savory flavor. Simply mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan and cook until thickened. Brush the glaze onto the chicken during the last few minutes of frying for a delicious flavor boost.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, try seasoning your chicken with herbs and spices instead of using a heavy sauce. A simple combination of rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest can add a burst of flavor without adding extra calories.
For a unique twist, try using a dry rub made with coffee grounds and brown sugar. The coffee adds a rich, smoky flavor while the brown sugar caramelizes and creates a crispy crust on the chicken.
A healthier twist on the classic Southern comfort food: Baked chicken and waffles recipe
If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider trying a baked chicken and waffles recipe. To make this dish, simply coat chicken drumettes and wings in a mixture of breadcrumbs and seasonings and bake in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Pair the baked chicken with your favorite waffle recipe and enjoy a guilt-free version of this classic Southern comfort food.
Not only is this baked chicken and waffles recipe a healthier option, but it’s also a great way to save time in the kitchen. Instead of frying the chicken and making waffles separately, you can bake the chicken and waffles at the same time in the oven. This means less time spent cooking and more time enjoying your meal.
For an extra burst of flavor, try adding some herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture. Rosemary, thyme, and paprika are all great options that will give your baked chicken a delicious, savory taste.
Creative variations on the traditional chicken and waffles dish
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are endless creative variations on the traditional chicken and waffles dish. Some options include adding a fried egg on top of the chicken and waffles, substituting the chicken for other meats such as pulled pork or shrimp, or adding a spicy sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
Another creative variation on the traditional chicken and waffles dish is to use different types of waffles. For example, you could try using sweet potato waffles or cornbread waffles instead of the classic buttermilk waffles. You could also experiment with different types of breading for the chicken, such as using a panko or cornmeal crust for added texture and flavor.
The best beverages to serve with your chicken and waffles meal
When it comes to beverages, there are a few options that pair well with chicken and waffles. A classic choice is iced tea, which complements the sweet and savory flavors of the dish. Another option is a refreshing mimosa or a spicy bloody mary for a brunch-style meal.
If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, lemonade or a fruit smoothie can also be a great choice. The tartness of the lemonade can help cut through the richness of the waffles and chicken, while a fruit smoothie can add a refreshing and healthy element to your meal.
For those who prefer a hot beverage, coffee or hot chocolate can be a great option. The bitterness of the coffee can help balance out the sweetness of the waffles, while the richness of the hot chocolate can complement the savory flavors of the chicken.
Using leftover bone-in chicken drumettes and wings in other delicious recipes
Finally, if you have any leftover chicken drumettes and wings, consider using them in other delicious recipes. Some options include chicken salad, buffalo chicken dip, or even a chicken pot pie.
With so many possibilities, chicken and waffles is a versatile and delicious dish that can be customized to your liking. Give it a try and enjoy the comfort food goodness!
Another great way to use leftover chicken drumettes and wings is to make a hearty chicken soup. Simply add the leftover chicken to a pot of chicken broth, along with some vegetables and noodles, and let it simmer until everything is cooked through. This is a great way to use up leftovers and create a comforting meal.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try making chicken tacos with your leftover drumettes and wings. Simply shred the chicken and add it to a tortilla with some salsa, avocado, and cheese. This is a quick and easy meal that is perfect for busy weeknights.