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In recent years, mini chicken and waffle bites have soared in popularity, quickly becoming a favorite at parties, brunches, and casual gatherings. This delightful dish combines the crispy goodness of fried chicken with the sweet, fluffy texture of waffles, creating a unique culinary experience that pleases a wide range of palates. The appeal of chicken and waffles lies not only in the harmonious blend of savory and sweet flavors but also in its status as a beloved comfort food that evokes feelings of home and warmth.

Mini Chicken & Waffle Bites

Discover the irresistible charm of mini chicken and waffle bites, a delightful fusion of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles that’s perfect for any occasion. These bite-sized treats combine savory and sweet flavors, making them an ideal choice for parties, brunches, or casual gatherings. With simple preparation steps and a focus on quality ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that invites sharing and enjoyment. Elevate your next event with this fun twist on a classic comfort food!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound chicken tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup cornmeal

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)

Vegetable oil (for frying)

12 mini waffles (store-bought or homemade)

Maple syrup (for drizzling)

Fresh chives, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.

    Prepare the Coating: In a separate large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will serve as a crispy coating for your chicken tenders.

      Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or large frying pan, pour in vegetable oil to a depth of about ½ inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C). A candy thermometer can be helpful for ensuring the right temperature.

        Dredge the Chicken: Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Take each piece of chicken and dredge it thoroughly in the flour and cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a good coating. Tap off any extra breading to prevent clumping.

          Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken tenders to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if needed). Fry the tenders for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil.

            Assemble the Bites: On a serving plate, place a mini waffle and top it with a piece of crispy fried chicken. Drizzle generously with warm maple syrup for a sweet contrast. Repeat this process with the remaining mini waffles and chicken to create all your bites.

              Garnish and Serve: For an added touch, sprinkle finely chopped fresh chives over the assembled bites to enhance both their appearance and flavor. Serve these delightful bites immediately while warm for the ultimate taste experience.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating) | 24 bites