Name: Mini Fried Chicken and Waffles with Maple Honey Butter Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 6 h 50 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 2 large boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1 1/2 inch (4 centimeter) pieces; 2 cups (470 milliliters) buttermilk; 1/4 cup (60 grams) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature; 1 1/2 tablespoons (22 milliliters) honey; 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) maple syrup; Pinch salt; 1 cup (125 grams) all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup (70 grams) cornstarch; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 cups (470 milliliters) vegetable oil; 30 mini waffles (frozen or homemade); Honey, for drizzling; Fresh chives, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 15 reviews

If you are craving a crispy, flavorful bite that bursts with sweet and savory goodness, the Mini Fried Chicken and Waffles with Maple Honey Butter Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish takes the classic soul-food favorite to delightful mini proportions, pairing perfectly crisp fried chicken bites with warm, fluffy mini waffles, all adorned with a luscious maple honey butter that adds a creamy, rich sweetness. Whether you’re making this for a casual brunch with friends or a special snack that feels indulgent and fresh, this recipe offers a mouthwatering experience that’s both fun and utterly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several triangular pieces of golden brown fried food cooking in a black pan. Each piece has a crispy, crunchy texture on the outside with a rough coating, and they are spread out in the pan with some oil glistening around them. The food looks warm and freshly fried, with a mix of lighter golden and deeper brown tones on the surface of each piece. The close-up view focuses on the front pieces, making the details of the crunchy texture very clear, while the background pieces are slightly out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list; each item here plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the tangy buttermilk marinade that tenderizes the chicken to the seasoned flour that creates the perfect golden crust, these ingredients are straightforward yet essential for that iconic taste.

Chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, these will be tender and juicy after marinating.
Buttermilk: Its acidity breaks down proteins, making the chicken incredibly tender and flavorful.
Unsalted butter: The base of your maple honey butter, providing rich creaminess.
Honey: Adds natural sweetness and a beautiful glaze to the butter.
Maple syrup: Deepens the sweetness with a classic syrupy flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors, from the butter to the seasoning mix.
All-purpose flour: Forms the crispy coating on the chicken when combined with spices.
Cornstarch: Adds extra crunch and lightness to the fried coating.
Garlic powder: A savory note that enhances the overall flavor of the coating.
Smoked paprika: Adds smokiness and a subtle warmth to each bite.
Onion powder: Complements the garlic while layering in more savory depth.
Black pepper: Provides gentle heat and piquancy to balance the dish.
Vegetable oil: For frying, offering a neutral flavor that crisps the chicken beautifully.
Mini waffles: Frozen or homemade, these are warm, fluffy platforms for the juicy chicken.
Honey (for drizzling): A finishing touch that amplifies sweetness and visual appeal.
Fresh chives: Adds a fresh, mild oniony note and vibrant color garnish.

How to Make Mini Fried Chicken and Waffles with Maple Honey Butter Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken pieces in a large bowl and covering them with buttermilk. Stir gently to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated. This step is key for tender, juicy chicken, so don’t rush it. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Prepare the Maple Honey Butter

While the chicken marinates, whip together softened unsalted butter with honey, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. This butter will be the star accompaniment, melting into warm waffles and marrying with the savory fried chicken for a burst of luscious flavor. Set it aside or refrigerate if you’re making it early, just remember to bring it to room temperature before serving.

Step 3: Season and Flour the Chicken

Mix together your flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, onion powder, and freshly ground black pepper in a wide bowl. This seasoned flour blend creates the irresistible golden crust on the chicken pieces. When ready, remove chicken from buttermilk, let excess drip off, then dredge each piece in the flour mixture, making sure to coat evenly.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat in a deep skillet or saucepan—the oil should be sufficiently hot but not smoking. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding, to maintain that perfect crispiness. Fry each side for 3 to 5 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and piled with a crunchy crust. Place fried chicken on a towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Toast the Mini Waffles

While frying the chicken, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Arrange your mini waffles on a baking sheet and bake them until they are golden and heated through, around 12 to 15 minutes. This method ensures they come out warm and slightly crispy—ideal for the perfect bite.

Step 6: Assemble Your Mini Fried Chicken and Waffles with Maple Honey Butter Recipe

Spread a generous dollop of that heavenly maple honey butter over each warm waffle, letting it melt slightly. Top with a crisp piece of your fried chicken, then drizzle a bit more honey on top for extra sweetness. Finally, sprinkle fresh chives for a pop of color and mild onion flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the symphony of textures and tastes.

How to Serve Mini Fried Chicken and Waffles with Maple Honey Butter Recipe

A wooden long tray holds multiple small round toasted bread pieces as the base layer, each topped with a crispy golden-brown fried shrimp layer that has a slightly rough texture and is garnished with small green herbs. Each stack is held together by a thin bamboo skewer with a looped knot at the top. Small drops of amber honey are scattered around the tray on a white marbled surface. In the blurred background, two white square dishes contain creamy spreads, alongside a honey dipper resting on the surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chives are a wonderful choice for garnish, bringing a vibrant green contrast and a subtle oniony brightness. You can also try a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or thinly sliced jalapeños for a little heat. These simple touches elevate your presentation and add fresh taste contrasts.

Side Dishes

Mini fried chicken and waffles shine on their own, but pairing them with a crisp side salad or coleslaw balances the richness beautifully. For a heartier meal, consider serving with roasted sweet potatoes or a light cucumber salad to introduce fresh, cool elements that refresh the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party platter, arrange mini sandwiches by stacking the fried chicken and waffle on mini skewers, topped with a dab of maple honey butter and a chive sprig. Alternatively, serve as a build-your-own station with additional toppings like pickles, hot sauce, or grated cheese so each guest can create their perfect bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, place leftover fried chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the mini waffles stored separately in a sealed bag to maintain their texture and prevent sogginess. The maple honey butter can be refrigerated in a covered dish.

Freezing

If you want to save portions for later, freeze the cooked chicken on a baking sheet in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Mini waffles can often be frozen as is. Thaw both in the fridge overnight before reheating for the freshest texture.

Reheating

Reheat fried chicken in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until hot and crispy, usually about 10 to 15 minutes. Warm mini waffles separately on a baking sheet until toasted through. Gently soften chilled maple honey butter at room temperature before spreading.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will add a bit more fat and flavor, plus they remain juicy during frying. Just adjust the size to match the bite-sized pieces and proceed as usual.

What can I do if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to one cup of milk. Let it sit for five minutes before using to allow it to curdle slightly.

Can I make the maple honey butter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to a week in advance. Store it tightly wrapped or in an airtight container in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature before serving for easy spreading and the best flavor.

Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of frying?

You can bake the coated chicken pieces at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. While they won’t get quite as crispy as frying, it’s a good alternative for a lighter version.

What’s the best way to keep the chicken crispy when serving?

Drain the fried chicken on a wire rack rather than paper towels to prevent the crust from getting soggy. Serve immediately, and avoid stacking to keep crispiness intact.

Final Thoughts

I’m genuinely excited for you to try this Mini Fried Chicken and Waffles with Maple Honey Butter Recipe because it captures that perfect harmony of crunch, sweetness, and comfort all in one bite-sized treat. It’s fun to make, impressive to serve, and loved by everyone lucky enough to dig in. So grab your ingredients, and let’s bring some joy to your kitchen with this delicious, cozy dish!