Name: Crispy Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 2 cups buttermilk; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon hot sauce or pickle juice; 1 tablespoon Kosher salt; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 2 teaspoons paprika; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 6 chicken thighs; vegetable oil, for frying (enough for 2 inches deep in pan); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon Kosher salt; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 2 teaspoons paprika; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 cups buttermilk; 2 eggs; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup real maple syrup; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

There’s something truly magical about the marriage of savory, crispy fried chicken and sweet, fluffy waffles, especially when drizzled with warm maple syrup. This Crispy Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup Recipe perfectly captures that Southern comfort food dream—crispy, juicy chicken with tender waffles and a cinnamon-infused syrup that brings it all to life.

A white plate holds a thick, golden waffle as the bottom layer with deep square pockets, topped by two large pieces of fried chicken that are crispy and golden brown with a shiny layer of syrup dripping over them, pooling slightly onto the plate. In the blurred background, another white plate shows a similar dish with waffle and fried chicken. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with two small hot sauce bottles with red caps lying near the plate, adding a touch of color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crispy Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crispy Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I adore making this recipe because it transforms a few simple ingredients into a dish that feels indulgent yet homey. Whether it’s a weekend brunch with friends or a special dinner, it always steals the show. Plus, the steps are totally manageable even if you’re new to frying chicken or making waffles from scratch.

Perfectly Crispy Chicken: The brine and seasoned flour coating guarantee a crunchy crust that locks in juicy tenderness.
Fluffy Buttermilk Waffles: Light, slightly tangy waffles complement the richness of the chicken perfectly.
Warm Cinnamon Maple Syrup: The syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness and spice to tie every bite together.
Made From Scratch: Every component is homemade, ensuring freshness and flavor you can’t get from a box.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you dive into making this cozy dish, it’s helpful to know a little about the key ingredients and why they’re essential. Sourcing fresh chicken thighs and good-quality buttermilk sets a solid foundation. Also, keep on hand some aromatic spices that elevate both the chicken and the syrup beautifully.

Flat lay of six fresh raw chicken thighs with skin, two whole brown eggs with clean shells, a small white ceramic bowl of creamy buttermilk, a small white ceramic bowl of bright red hot sauce, a small white ceramic bowl of coarse kosher salt, a small white ceramic bowl of paprika powder, a small white ceramic bowl of garlic powder, a small white ceramic bowl of onion powder, a small white ceramic bowl of black pepper, a small white ceramic bowl of cornstarch, a simple white ceramic plate with two uncooked square buttermilk waffles stacked, a small white ceramic bowl of real amber maple syrup, a small white ceramic bowl of melted golden butter, a small white ceramic bowl of white granulated sugar, a small white ceramic bowl of light golden vanilla extract, and a small white ceramic bowl of warm brown ground cinnamon, all arranged in perfect symmetry with realistic proportions on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Buttermilk: This is the heart of both the chicken brine and waffles, tenderizing the chicken and giving waffles their distinct tang.
Eggs: They add structure and richness to the brine and waffle batter.
Hot Sauce or Pickle Juice: Adds a gentle kick and depth to the chicken brine for extra flavor complexity.
Kosher Salt: A must for proper seasoning in the brine, coating, and waffles; it enhances every flavor component.
Garlic & Onion Powder: Foundation spices that bring savory warmth to the chicken’s crust and waffle batter.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken coating.
Black Pepper: Provides just the right amount of heat to balance the flavors.
Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, perfect for frying crispy yet tender.
Vegetable Oil: Ideal for frying because of its high smoke point.
All-purpose Flour & Cornstarch: The cornstarch in the coating recipe helps achieve an extra-crispy crust.
Baking Powder & Sugar: These work together in the waffles for lift and a hint of sweetness.
Unsalted Butter & Vanilla Extract: Key for rich, aromatic waffles and syrup.
Real Maple Syrup, Butter & Ground Cinnamon: The trio that turns simple syrup into a warm, spiced drizzle with depth.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Crispy Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup Recipe is how easy it is to customize. Feel free to tweak the flavors or add your own twist to make it truly your own!

Spicy Boost: I love adding an extra dash of cayenne pepper to the flour coating for a little kick that wakes up the palate without overpowering the dish.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use cornstarch as instructed – it still gives that satisfyingly crispy crust!
Waffle Variations: Adding a handful of chocolate chips or shredded cheddar cheese to the waffle batter is a fun surprise my family enjoys, especially kids.
Herby Syrup: Infuse the cinnamon maple syrup with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme while heating for an aromatic twist.
Healthier Choice: For a lighter meal, try baking the chicken instead of frying, using the same brine and flour coating to keep flavor intact.
Seasonal Touch: In fall, stirring in a little pumpkin spice into the waffle batter complements the warmth of the cinnamon syrup beautifully.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup Recipe

A close-up view of two pieces of crispy fried chicken with a golden brown, crunchy textured crust, placed on top of a thick, light golden waffle with a soft texture and grid pattern. Both chicken pieces are glistening with a sticky, shiny syrup that drips slightly over the edges of the waffle and onto the white plate beneath. The background shows a blurred bottle with red accents and a blue and white cloth, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Chicken Brine

Start by combining 1 tablespoon Kosher salt, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 2 teaspoons paprika, and ½ teaspoon black pepper in a large bowl. Then stir in 2 cups buttermilk, 1 egg, and your choice of 1 tablespoon hot sauce or pickle juice. This brine tenderizes and infuses the chicken thighs with deep, savory flavor. Make sure all pieces are fully submerged for even marinating. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—this patience really pays off with juicy chicken that stays moist inside.

Step 2: Mix and Shake the Seasoned Flour Coating

While the chicken marinates, prepare the crunchy coating. Combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon Kosher salt, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 2 teaspoons paprika, and ½ teaspoon black pepper inside a large brown paper or freezer bag. Seal and shake it well to distribute the seasoning evenly—this dry mix is the key to that irresistible golden crust.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Thoroughly Before Frying

Remove chicken thighs from the brine, letting any excess drip off. Working in batches of 3-4 pieces, add the chicken to the flour bag and shake vigorously to coat every side evenly. Setting aside the coated chicken on a tray helps prepare for frying. Tip: Make sure the chicken is well coated but not clumped with excess flour—that balance ensures a crunchy, not gummy, crust.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken to Crispy Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a heavy skillet to 2 inches deep and warm it over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy). Carefully add 3-4 chicken pieces at a time, avoiding overcrowding, which can drop the oil temperature. Fry bone-in thighs for 10 minutes on each side, or boneless for 6-7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature hits 165°F and the crust is golden brown. Transfer chicken to a wire rack to rest—this keeps the crust crispy while finishing the cooking.

Step 5: Whip Up the Fluffy Buttermilk Waffle Batter

While the chicken rests, prepare your waffle batter. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon sugar, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 cups buttermilk, and ½ cup melted unsalted butter until smooth. Next, gently fold in 2 cups flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt—be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine. This ensures your waffles stay light and tender.

Step 6: Cook the Waffles Until Golden

Preheat your waffle iron and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Pour about ¾ cup of batter onto the hot surface and cook until the waffles are golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with remaining batter, spraying as needed to prevent sticking. Cooking waffles while chicken rests is perfect timing—warm, fresh waffles make all the difference.

Step 7: Make the Warm Cinnamon Maple Syrup

In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup real maple syrup, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter melts and the syrup is fragrant and hot. This syrup adds a luscious, spicy-sweet finish that ties the whole dish together beautifully.

Step 8: Assemble Your Crispy Chicken and Waffles

Now for the best part: place crispy fried chicken pieces atop your fluffy buttermilk waffles, then drizzle generously with the warm cinnamon maple syrup. Serve immediately and savor every bite of this classic Southern comfort food combo that’s crispy, juicy, fluffy, and perfectly sweet.

Top Tip

Making Crispy Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup Recipe can be so rewarding, and a few handy tips can really elevate your dish from good to unforgettable.

Brining Matters: Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour in that flavorful buttermilk brine—this tenderizes the meat and builds incredible flavor that makes every bite juicy and delicious.
Temperature Control: Keep your frying oil steady at 350°F. I learned the hard way that too hot scorches the crust and leaves the inside undercooked, while too cool makes the chicken greasy.
Shake It Up: Using a sealed bag for dredging your chicken in the seasoned flour coating gives such an even crust and reduces mess—definitely a game changer.
Rest Before Waffles: Let your chicken rest on a wire rack after frying for 4-5 minutes; it locks in the juices. That brief rest is the perfect window to make your waffles fresh, warm, and fluffy.

How to Serve Crispy Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup Recipe

The image shows four stages of making fried chicken and waffles. In the top left, raw chicken pieces sit in a clear glass bowl filled with light beige batter. The top right shows raw chicken pieces partially covered in white flour inside a white bowl. At the bottom left, two pieces of golden brown fried chicken with crispy texture bubble in hot oil inside a black cast iron skillet. The bottom right displays a round, golden brown waffle with square indentations, cooked in a black waffle iron on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle your masterpiece with some freshly chopped chives or parsley to add a pop of color and mild freshness. For a bit of extra heat, thin slices of pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce on the side can brighten the plate beautifully. You can also dust the top lightly with powdered sugar for a classic, diner-style touch that pairs perfectly with the warm cinnamon maple syrup.

Side Dishes

Keep it traditional with a crisp side salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For heartier sides, creamy coleslaw, collard greens, or roasted sweet potatoes complement the Southern vibes perfectly. And if you’re craving more carbs (because why not?), a side of buttery corn muffins or honey-glazed carrots will round out your plate beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover fried chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days. Keeping the syrup refrigerated in a small jar or container ensures it stays fresh without losing that wonderful cinnamon flavor.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap the fried chicken pieces tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Waffles freeze nicely too when stacked between parchment paper to prevent sticking. Both can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store the syrup in the fridge only; it doesn't freeze as well due to its butter content.

Reheating

Reheat fried chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15 minutes to keep the crust crispy and the inside juicy. For waffles, pop them in a toaster or warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. Rewarm the cinnamon maple syrup gently over low heat on the stove or microwave in short bursts, stirring to keep it smooth.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs work great and will cook faster—about 6-7 minutes per side versus 10 minutes. Just use a thermometer to make sure they reach 165°F inside for safe eating.

What’s the secret to crispy skin on the fried chicken?

The seasoned flour coating combined with the buttermilk brine helps create that perfectly crispy crust. Also, frying at a consistent 350°F without overcrowding the pan ensures the crust stays crunchy and golden brown.

Can I make the waffles ahead of time?

You can, but waffles are best served fresh and warm. If you make them ahead, store them in an airtight container and reheat in a toaster or oven to restore crispiness before serving.

Is there a way to make this recipe a bit healthier?

You could swap the frying oil to a healthier option like avocado oil, and consider baking the chicken instead of frying, although you might lose some crispiness. Also, reducing the butter in the syrup and waffles can lighten it up. But honestly, this recipe is about indulgence and Southern comfort!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the warm, comforting flavors of this Crispy Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup Recipe. Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a cozy dinner, or a special treat, making it from scratch is such a satisfying experience. The juicy, crispy chicken paired with fluffy buttermilk waffles and that lusciously spiced maple syrup never fails to put a smile on my face. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Southern classic as much as I do!