Buttermilk Waffles with Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Name: Buttermilk Waffles with Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 90 min
Total time: 90 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 3 tablespoons sugar; 1/2 teaspoon fine salt; 3 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups buttermilk; 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter (melted and cooled, plus more for greasing the waffle iron); 12 chicken tenders; 2 cups buttermilk; A few dashes of hot sauce (plus more for serving); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon chile de arbol powder or cayenne; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper; Canola oil (for frying); Honey (for drizzling)

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Buttermilk Waffles with Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Who doesn’t love a delicious plate of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles? The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes for a mouthwatering meal that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Today, we’re going to dive into the world of buttermilk waffles with buttermilk fried chicken tenders. Get ready to learn all about this irresistible dish!

The Perfect Pairing

Buttermilk waffles and buttermilk fried chicken tenders are a match made in culinary heaven. The tangy and slightly acidic taste of buttermilk adds a unique twist to the classic waffle and fried chicken combo. It creates a flavorful contrast that keeps you coming back for more.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a golden-brown chicken tender, perfectly seasoned with a crispy coating, and then taking a bite of a light and fluffy waffle that’s been drizzled with maple syrup. The combination of textures and flavors is simply divine.

The Secret to Fluffy Waffles

So, what’s the secret to achieving those airy and fluffy waffles? It’s all about the buttermilk! Buttermilk is the key ingredient that gives waffles their tender texture. The acidity in buttermilk reacts with the baking powder, resulting in a lighter and fluffier waffle.

When making buttermilk waffles, it’s important to let the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking. This allows the ingredients to fully combine and helps the waffles rise to their full potential. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in the final outcome.

Fried Chicken Tenders with a Twist

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the buttermilk fried chicken tenders. These crispy delights are made by marinating the chicken in buttermilk before coating them in a seasoned flour mixture and frying them to golden perfection.

The buttermilk not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken, resulting in juicy and succulent tenders. The tanginess of the buttermilk cuts through the richness of the fried coating, creating a well-balanced and mouthwatering dish.

Beyond Breakfast

While buttermilk waffles with buttermilk fried chicken tenders are a classic breakfast dish, they can also be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you’re craving a hearty brunch, a satisfying lunch, or a comforting dinner, this combination will hit the spot.

Pair your waffles and chicken tenders with a side of fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce to customize your meal to your liking. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs

1. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

While buttermilk is the preferred choice for this recipe, you can substitute it with regular milk. However, keep in mind that the tangy flavor and tenderizing properties of buttermilk may be missing in the final result.

2. Can I make the waffle batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the waffle batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure all the ingredients are well incorporated.

3. Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them?

Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can bake the chicken tenders in the oven. Place them on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.

4. What can I serve with buttermilk waffles and chicken tenders?

Aside from the classic maple syrup, you can serve your waffles and chicken tenders with a variety of toppings and sides. Some popular options include honey, hot sauce, gravy, coleslaw, and mashed potatoes.

5. Can I freeze the leftover waffles and chicken tenders?

Yes, you can freeze any leftover waffles and chicken tenders for later use. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers or freezer bags to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in the oven or toaster.

6. Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Absolutely! If you can’t find chicken tenders, you can use boneless chicken breasts instead. Just slice them into strips or nuggets before marinating and coating them.

7. Can I make the waffles gluten-free?

Yes, you can make gluten-free waffles by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. Make sure to check the labels of your other ingredients, such as baking powder, to ensure they are also gluten-free.

8. How can I make the waffles crispier?

If you prefer your waffles to have a crispy exterior, you can try adding a little cornstarch or cornmeal to the batter. These ingredients can help achieve a slightly crunchy texture.

In Conclusion

Buttermilk waffles with buttermilk fried chicken tenders are a delightful combination that brings together the best of both sweet and savory worlds. The tanginess of the buttermilk adds depth of flavor, while the crispy coating and fluffy waffles create a perfect harmony of textures.

This versatile dish can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, making it a crowd-pleaser at any time of the day. So, why not treat yourself to a plate of buttermilk waffles with buttermilk fried chicken tenders? Your taste buds will thank you!

Buttermilk Waffles with Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders

Prep1 hr 30 min

Total1 hr 30 min

Servings4

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
3 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
3 large eggs
1 1/2 cups buttermilk
1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter (, melted and cooled, plus more for greasing the waffle iron)
12 chicken tenders
2 cups buttermilk
A few dashes of hot sauce (, plus more for serving)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon chile de arbol powder or cayenne
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Canola oil (, for frying)
Honey (, for drizzling)

To make the waffles, start by combining flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth, then add buttermilk and butter and whisk until well combined.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined, leaving some lumps.
Cover the batter and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F and place a baking rack over a baking sheet on the center rack.
Preheat a waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions and brush it with melted butter.
Ladle about 1/3 cup of the batter onto the waffle iron for each waffle.
Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3 to 4 minutes, and transfer the cooked waffles to the baking rack in the oven to keep them warm.
While the waffle batter rests, place the chicken tenders in a resealable plastic bag.
Add 1 cup of buttermilk and hot sauce to the bag, then seal it and marinate at room temperature for 1 hour.
In a medium bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, chile de arbol, salt, and black pepper.
Transfer half of the flour mixture to a second bowl and put the remaining 1 cup of buttermilk in a