Chicken & Waffle Sliders are the ultimate sweet and savory appetizer, combining crispy fried chicken with fluffy mini waffles and a drizzle of maple syrup. Perfect for brunch, game day, or a fun dinner, these sliders are easy to make and packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet & Savory Perfection: Crispy chicken and fluffy waffles with syrup make an irresistible combo.
- Great for Any Occasion: Ideal for brunch, parties, or even a fun dinner.
- Easy to Make: Use homemade or store-bought waffles and fried chicken.
- Customizable: Adjust the flavors with toppings like honey butter or hot sauce.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun and tasty finger food that everyone will love.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Mini waffles (homemade or frozen)
- Chicken tenders (fried or baked)
- Maple syrup
- Butter (optional, for waffles)
- Hot sauce (optional, for spice)
- Toothpicks or skewers (for serving)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cook the chicken tenders according to package instructions or fry homemade tenders.
- Toast the Waffles: If using frozen waffles, toast them until golden and crispy.
- Assemble the Sliders: Place a piece of fried chicken between two mini waffles.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle with maple syrup and add butter or hot sauce if desired.
- Secure & Serve: Use toothpicks or skewers to hold the sliders together and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8 sliders
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Drizzle with hot honey or sriracha maple syrup.
- Cheesy Twist: Add a slice of cheddar or pepper jack cheese.
- Breakfast Style: Top with a fried egg for extra flavor.
- Buttermilk Chicken: Marinate chicken in buttermilk before frying for extra tenderness.
- Healthier Option: Use grilled chicken instead of fried.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and waffles separately for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm waffles in a toaster and reheat chicken in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen waffles?
Yes! Mini frozen waffles work great for quick prep.
What’s the best chicken for sliders?
Crispy fried tenders, baked nuggets, or even grilled chicken.
How do I keep the waffles from getting soggy?
Toast them before assembling and serve immediately.
What dipping sauces pair well?
Maple syrup, honey mustard, ranch, or spicy aioli.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken and waffles ahead, then reheat before serving.
Can I use pancake mix for waffles?
Yes! Just use a waffle maker instead of a griddle.
How do I make this extra crispy?
Double-toast the waffles and fry the chicken until golden brown.
What sides go well with chicken & waffle sliders?
Fruit salad, coleslaw, or sweet potato fries.
Are these good for meal prep?
Yes! Store ingredients separately and assemble fresh.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free waffles and breaded chicken.
Conclusion
Chicken & Waffle Sliders are the perfect mix of crispy, fluffy, sweet, and savory flavors. Whether you’re serving them at brunch, a party, or just for a fun meal, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a delicious twist on a classic favorite!
PrintChicken & Waffle Sliders Recipe
Mini savory-sweet sandwiches featuring crispy fried chicken nestled between fluffy waffles, finished with a drizzle of maple syrup or spicy honey for a delightful bite-sized treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 15–30 min marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40–55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 sliders 1x
- Category: Appetizer/Snack
- Method: Frying and toasting
- Cuisine: American-Soul Food
Ingredients
- 12 mini frozen or homemade Belgian waffle rounds (about 3–4‑inch each)
- 12 oz boneless, skinless chicken tenders or thighs, cut into 12 bite-size pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
- Maple syrup or spicy honey, for drizzling
- Optional garnish: pickle slices, chopped chives, hot sauce drizzle
Instructions
- Place chicken pieces in a bowl and pour buttermilk over; marinate for 15–30 minutes in the fridge.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat about 1/2″ oil in a skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Fry chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
- While chicken cooks, toast or warm waffle rounds in toaster or oven until crisp and heated.
- To assemble, top half of the waffles with a fried chicken piece. Add optional pickle slice or sprinkle with chives.
- Place another waffle on top to make a slider. Repeat for all sliders.
- Serve immediately, drizzled with warm maple syrup or spicy honey and, if desired, a dash of hot sauce.
Notes
- For extra crunch, double-dip chicken: after first dredge, dip back in buttermilk then flour again.
- Use mini frozen Brussels waffles for convenience and uniform size.
- Customize toppings: coleslaw, jalapeños, or bacon bits work well.
- Make spicy honey: mix equal parts honey and hot sauce. Microwave briefly until runny.
- Keep assembled sliders warm in a low oven (200°F/95°C) until serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg