There’s something truly magical about the combination of savory fried chicken and sweet, decadent red velvet waffles. Whether you’re indulging in a southern brunch or recreating this iconic dish at home, chicken and red velvet waffles are a showstopper.
This article will take you through the history of this culinary classic, step-by-step recipes, and tips for perfecting your own version. Along the way, you will see some pro tips, address frequently asked questions, and help you choose the best tools and ingredients for the job.
The Origin of Chicken and Red Velvet Waffles
This iconic dish marries the crispiness of southern-style fried chicken with the sweet and slightly tangy flavors of red velvet waffles. While chicken and waffles date back to the Harlem Renaissance, adding red velvet waffles is a more recent innovation that adds a delightful twist to the classic.
How to Make Red Velvet Waffles
Ingredients for Red Velvet Waffles
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 ¼ cups buttermilk (or milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar)
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring
Instructions
- Preheat Your Waffle Maker
Preheat your waffle maker and lightly grease it with non-stick spray. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. - Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. - Create the Batter
Slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until smooth. Be careful not to overmix. - Cook the Waffles
Pour the batter into the waffle maker, close the lid, and cook for 3–5 minutes or until the waffles are cooked through and slightly crisp.
Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, let the waffles cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
The Perfect Fried Chicken
Ingredients for Fried Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken
Combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Submerge the chicken in the mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight). - Prepare the Coating
Mix flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. - Coat and Fry
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, shake off excess liquid, and coat it evenly in the flour mixture. Heat oil in a deep skillet and fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 10–12 minutes. - Drain and Rest
Place the fried chicken on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Serving Chicken and Red Velvet Waffles
Toppings and Pairings
- Sweet Options: Drizzle with maple syrup, dust with powdered sugar, or top with cream cheese glaze.
- Savory Options: Add hot sauce or honey butter for a kick of flavor.
Red Velvet Waffles Recipe Variations
Red Velvet Waffles with Pancake Mix
If you’re short on time, use a pancake mix as the base. Add cocoa powder and red food coloring to mimic the classic red velvet flavor.
Gluten-Free Red Velvet Waffles
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix for a gluten-free version.
Vegan Red Velvet Waffles
Use almond milk and apple cider vinegar as a buttermilk substitute and flaxseed meal for eggs.
FAQs About Chicken and Red Velvet Waffles
1. Can I Make Red Velvet Waffles Without Buttermilk?
Yes! Use regular milk with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.
2. How Do I Get Crispy Waffles?
Ensure the waffle iron is fully preheated, and don’t stack waffles immediately after cooking to prevent steaming.
3. Can I Bake the Chicken Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! Bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. What Are the Best Toppings for Red Velvet Waffles?
Cream cheese glaze, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of maple syrup are classic options.
Tools for the Best Results
Recommended Waffle Maker
- Belgian Waffle Maker: Ideal for thick, fluffy waffles. Shop Now on Amazon
Frying Tools
- Deep Fryer or Heavy Skillet: A deep fryer ensures even cooking for fried chicken.
Conclusion
Chicken and red velvet waffles are a feast for the senses, blending sweet, savory, and crispy textures into one unforgettable dish. Whether you’re serving it for brunch or a special dinner, this combination is sure to impress. With the right tools and tips, you’ll master this dish in no time!
