Ever stared at a plate of chicken and waffles and wondered, “How exactly am I supposed to eat this beautiful mess?” Don’t worry – you’re not alone! This sweet and savory combo has been confusing (and delighting) diners for decades, and I’m here to share all the delicious ways you can enjoy this iconic dish
As someone who’s eaten my fair share of chicken and waffles across the country I’ve picked up some tricks along the way. Let’s dive into the world of this comfort food classic!
The Classic Ways to Eat Chicken and Waffles
Soul Food Style
The soul food version of chicken and waffles is probably what most people think of – crispy fried chicken perched atop fluffy waffles. Here’s how you can enjoy it:
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Eat them separately – If you’re not into mixing flavors eat the chicken first and save the waffles for dessert (or vice versa if you’re a major chicken fan and want to save the best for last).
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Dig in together – Place the chicken on top of the waffles and cut pieces of both at the same time to get that perfect sweet-savory combo in each bite.
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Add some syrup or honey – Drizzle sweet maple syrup or honey over both the chicken and waffles. You can pour it directly on top or keep it on the side for dipping.
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Kick it up with hot sauce – Many people love adding a bit of spice! You can either pour hot sauce directly over the chicken or make a spicy syrup by whisking together maple syrup with your favorite hot sauce.
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Try spicy honey – For a next-level experience, try making spicy honey by simmering sliced Fresno chili peppers and dried chili peppers in light honey for about 5 minutes.
Pennsylvania Dutch Style
Did you know there’s another traditional way to eat chicken and waffles? The Pennsylvania Dutch style is completely different:
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Pile shredded chicken on waffles – Unlike the soul food version, this style uses shredded roasted or stewed chicken (not fried) on top of waffles.
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Pour on the gravy – Instead of sweet syrup, this version uses savory chicken or turkey gravy.
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Add mashed potatoes – Many people enjoy having mashed potatoes on the side for the ultimate comfort food experience. You can even pour some of the gravy over your potatoes or mix everything together!
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Try a twist – For a fun variation, make mashed potato waffles and top them with chicken and gravy.
Creative Ways to Eat Chicken and Waffles
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are tons of fun variations to try:
1. Chicken and Waffle Sandwich
Make a sandwich using waffles as the “bread” and fried chicken as the filling. You can add greens, bacon, cheese, or whatever toppings you like! Mini versions make great sliders using popcorn chicken and small waffles.
2. Chicken and Waffle Kebabs
Thread mini waffles (or waffle pieces) and pieces of fried chicken onto skewers for a fun, handheld treat. These are perfect for parties and can be served with dipping sauces like maple syrup, honey mustard, or hot sauce.
3. Chicken and Waffle Cone
This creative twist uses a waffle cone filled with mashed potatoes and popcorn chicken, often topped with a drizzle of spicy honey sauce. It’s like a savory ice cream cone!
4. Buffalo Chicken Waffle Nachos
Turn your chicken and waffles into “nachos” by cutting waffles into triangles, topping with buffalo chicken, and drizzling with sriracha and maple mustard syrup.
5. BLT-Style with Bacon Inside Waffles
Mix crumbled bacon directly into your waffle batter, then top with fried chicken, lettuce, and tomato for a BLT-inspired creation.
6. Korean Fried Chicken and Waffles
Give your dish an international twist by using Korean-style fried chicken with its signature sweet and spicy sauce on top of traditional waffles.
7. Grilled Cheese Version
Add cheese between your chicken and waffles, then press together until melty and delicious.
8. Ice Cream Sundae Style
Yes, really! Some brave souls top their chicken and waffles with ice cream for an extreme sweet and savory experience.
Tips for Perfect Chicken and Waffles
No matter how you choose to eat your chicken and waffles, here are some tips to enhance your experience:
- Temperature matters: Make sure both components are hot when served together – cold waffles or chicken can ruin the experience.
- Quality counts: Use real maple syrup if possible, not the artificial stuff.
- Get the right balance: The ideal bite has both chicken and waffle in equal measure.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Try different sauces, toppings, and combinations until you find your perfect match.
- When dining out: Ask your server for recommendations – many restaurants have their own special way of serving this dish.
Vegetarian Options
Don’t eat meat? You can still enjoy chicken and waffles:
- Top waffles with breaded tofu or chickpea-based “chicken”
- If you eat eggs, try topping waffles with a breaded poached egg
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow end up with leftover waffles (it happens!), here’s what to do:
- Cool waffles completely
- Store in an airtight container or bag
- Label them with the date
- Keep in refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for 1-2 months
- Reheat in a toaster or oven
Making Your Own Chicken and Waffles
If you wanna make this dish at home, here’s a quick tip from a chef I know:
“For the best chicken and waffles, start with a homemade Belgian waffle. For the chicken, I prefer using chicken tenders or thighs with a thin breading. Season flour with salt and pepper, dip the chicken in beaten eggs with a splash of water, then coat with panko breadcrumbs. Deep-fry in peanut oil for extra flavor, or canola oil works too. For an amazing syrup, try combining maple syrup with a bit of whiskey – the alcohol cooks off but leaves behind an incredible flavor!”
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, there’s no “wrong” way to eat chicken and waffles – that’s the beauty of this versatile dish! Whether you prefer to keep the components separate, mix them all together, or try one of the creative variations we’ve covered, the important thing is that you enjoy every bite.
I personally love the classic soul food style with both hot sauce AND maple syrup (yes, together!), but my husband thinks that’s weird and keeps his completely separate. We agree to disagree!
What’s your favorite way to eat chicken and waffles? Have you tried any of these methods or do you have your own special technique? Whatever your preference, this comfort food classic is sure to satisfy your cravings for both sweet and savory flavors in one delicious meal.
So next time you’re faced with a plate of chicken and waffles, remember – there are no rules! Dig in however you please and savor every bite of this amazing culinary creation.
How to Eat Chicken and Waffles
There’s no wrong way to enjoy chicken and waffles, but there are certainly some strategies for maximizing the experience! Syrup lovers face the choice of a generous pour over the top or a side dip. Aim for a forkful that combines the tender chicken, crisp coating, and soft waffle, possibly with a hint of syrup or hot sauce. Each bite is an opportunity to experiment with flavors and textures.
Where Can I Get Chicken and Waffles?
While homemade is always an option, sometimes you just need to satisfy that craving with minimal effort. Local diners often boast their own takes on the classic, but for those seeking the quintessential experience, we have to mention Metro Diner’s own Fried Chicken and Waffle. This isn’t just any ordinary diner fare; it’s a culinary experience that leaves a lasting impression.
- Half a Fried Chicken: Imagine a generous half of a chicken, expertly fried to achieve that irresistible golden-brown crust, while keeping the inside succulently moist and tender. It’s the kind of fried chicken that makes every bite a delightful crunch followed by a melt-in-your-mouth sensation. Not a fan of bone-in chicken? Not a problem! You can always substitute our delicious chicken tenders whenever you order chicken and waffles at Metro Diner.
- Belgian Waffle: Sitting alongside the fried chicken is a fluffy, perfectly cooked Belgian waffle. It’s light and airy, with just the right amount of crispness, serving as the ideal base to complement the chicken’s robust flavors.
- Powdered Sugar and Strawberry Butter: To elevate this dish even further, it’s topped with a dusting of powdered sugar and a dollop of sweet, strawberry butter. This unique combination adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements, creating a harmonious blend of flavors in every forkful.
- Signature Sweet and Spicy Sauce: And let’s not forget the sauce – Metro Diner’s signature sweet and spicy sauce. This sauce is the secret weapon, adding an extra layer of complexity with its sweet heat, tying the entire dish together in a symphony of taste sensations.
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to Metro Diner’s commitment to creating unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and savory combinations or just looking for a new twist on classic diner food, our Fried Chicken and Waffles are a must-try.
How to Eat Chicken & Waffles
FAQ
Is there a proper way to eat chicken and waffles?
Cut up the chicken into bite-sized pieces but only cut the waffle into quarters. Place a piece of chicken on top of the waffle, pour syrup/gravy onto the waffle, and eat it with your hand like it is a pizza. It is messy but still yummy. (Honestly, this is how I do it.
Why do people eat chicken and waffles together?
People eat chicken and waffles together because their sweet, savory, crispy, and tender elements create a satisfying flavor and texture combination, and it’s a culturally significant dish rooted in Black American history, originating from the convergence of Southern fried chicken traditions and Northern waffle-eating habits, popularized by Harlem’s jazz scene. The dish offers a hearty, filling meal, blending a breakfast staple with a popular dinner item to satisfy late-night appetites.
Is chicken and waffles eaten with syrup?
Yes, most recipes and people who eat chicken and waffles put syrup on the dish to provide the classic sweet and savory combination, though you can also add butter, hot sauce, or a creamy gravy as preferred. The syrup is typically drizzled over both the chicken and waffles, or at least over the waffles.
What is chicken and waffles served with?
- Collard greens.
- Okra..fried or steamed.
- Corn.
- Red Beans and Rice.
- Mac Cheese.
- Grits.
- Cheesy Grits.
- More Chicken.