Red Velvet Waffles Chicken has always been a showstopper in my kitchen, a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. I first tried making it on a whim after seeing a stunning photo of the vibrant red waffles paired with crispy fried chicken, and honestly, I was a little intimidated! But the moment I took my first bite – that perfect balance of sweet, slightly tangy waffle and savory, spicy chicken – I was hooked. The aroma of cocoa and spices filling my home always signals a special meal. It’s a dish that truly excites the senses and brings a little bit of Southern flair to any table. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Waffles Chicken
This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! Get ready to fall in love with this unique take on a Southern favorite. Here’s why this dish is a winner:
- Unforgettable Flavor Combination: The sweet, cocoa-rich red velvet waffles perfectly complement the savory, crispy fried chicken.
- Visually Stunning: The vibrant red waffles make for an impressive presentation, perfect for special brunches or dinners.
- A True Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone will be talking about these amazing red velvet waffles with fried chicken.
- Satisfyingly Sweet and Savory: It hits all the right notes, making every bite a delight.
- Easy to Make: Despite its impressive look, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward.
- Versatile Serving: Enjoy it for a decadent brunch, a fun dinner, or even a special breakfast.
- The ultimate red velvet waffles with fried chicken experience awaits you.
- A Taste of Southern Charm: It brings a unique, comforting, and exciting flavor profile to your table.
Ingredients for Red Velvet Waffles Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is key to mastering this delightful chicken and red velvet waffles recipe. You’ll need components for the crispy chicken, the vibrant waffles, and an optional dreamy cream cheese glaze. Don’t worry if you don’t have every specific chicken cut; breasts, thighs, or tenders all work beautifully for that savory crunch.
For the Chicken
- 1 ½ lbs chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or tenders recommended)
- 2 cups buttermilk – this is crucial for tenderizing and adding flavor
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for a little kick)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – the base for our crispy coating
- 1 tsp paprika – adds a lovely color and smoky depth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable or canola oil, for frying – enough to generously cover the chicken
For the Red Velvet Waffles
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder – gives that signature red velvet flavor
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – for a hint of sweetness
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk – keeps the waffles tender
- 2 large eggs – room temperature is best
- ¼ cup melted butter or oil – for richness and moisture
- 2 tbsp red food coloring – essential for that vibrant red hue! Gel works best.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp white vinegar – this reacts with the baking soda to help the waffles rise
For the Cream Cheese Glaze (Optional)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 – 3 tbsp milk or cream – to reach desired consistency
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Red Velvet Waffles Chicken
Now for the fun part – bringing all these delicious components together! Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll be enjoying the most amazing plate of Red Velvet Waffles Chicken in no time. I promise, the effort is totally worth that first incredible bite!
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
First things first, let’s get that chicken ready for its crispy coating. In a roomy bowl, whisk together the 2 cups buttermilk and the optional 1 tbsp hot sauce. Submerge your 1 ½ lbs chicken pieces completely in this mixture. Cover the bowl and pop it into the refrigerator. I like to let mine marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for maximum tenderness and flavor infusion.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the chicken is busy marinating, let’s mix up our flavorful dredging. Grab another bowl and combine the 2 cups all-purpose flour with the 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper. Give it a good whisk to ensure all those spices are evenly distributed. This blend is the secret to that perfectly seasoned, crispy crust you’re dreaming of.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
It’s time to get frying! Carefully remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. Now, dredge each piece generously in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any loose flour. Pour enough vegetable or canola oil into a deep skillet to generously cover the chicken – we want crispy perfection! Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Gently place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 6–8 minutes per side, until the chicken is a beautiful golden brown and cooked all the way through. You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear. Drain the glorious fried chicken on paper towels.
Step 4: Make the Red Velvet Waffles
While the chicken is frying (or just after), let’s whip up those stunning waffles. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp cocoa powder, 1 tbsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ cup granulated sugar. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: 1 ½ cups buttermilk, 2 large eggs, ¼ cup melted butter or oil, the vibrant 2 tbsp red food coloring, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tsp white vinegar. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and whisk until everything is just combined and smooth. Don’t overmix! Preheat and grease your waffle iron. Pour in the batter – about ¾ cup per waffle, depending on your iron – and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until they are crisp and fluffy. Keeping them warm in a low oven (around 200°F) is key as you finish up. Learning how to make red velvet waffles chicken is all about timing!
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze (Optional)
If you’re opting for that extra touch of decadence, it’s time for the glaze. In a medium bowl, beat the 4 oz softened cream cheese until it’s perfectly smooth. Gradually add the 1 cup powdered sugar, beating until combined. Drizzle in 2–3 tbsp milk or cream and the ½ tsp vanilla extract, mixing until you achieve a wonderfully smooth, pourable consistency. This glaze adds a delightful tang that beautifully contrasts the spicy chicken.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
The grand finale! Place a warm, vibrant red velvet waffle on each plate. Top it with a piece of your perfectly crispy fried chicken. If you made the glaze, drizzle it generously over the chicken and waffle. A little drizzle of maple syrup also works wonders here. Serve immediately and get ready for the applause! This is truly how to make red velvet waffles chicken look and taste spectacular.
Pro Tips for the Best Red Velvet Waffles Chicken
Want to elevate your Red Velvet Waffles Chicken game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference. These tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of crispy chicken and tender, flavorful waffles every single time.
- Ensure your chicken is fully submerged in the buttermilk for at least 2 hours, or better yet, overnight. This is non-negotiable for tender chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the frying pan! Give the chicken pieces enough space to cook evenly and get super crispy.
- For extra vibrant waffles, use a gel-based red food coloring. It provides intense color without adding too much liquid to the batter.
What’s the secret to perfect Red Velvet Waffles Chicken?
The magic lies in the buttermilk marinade for the chicken and the proper balance of wet and dry ingredients for the waffles. This combination ensures tender, flavorful chicken and fluffy, moist waffles, creating the best red velvet waffles chicken experience.
Can I make Red Velvet Waffles Chicken ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken and prepare the waffle batter ahead of time. Store the marinated chicken and the waffle batter separately in the refrigerator. Fry the chicken and cook the waffles just before serving for optimal crispiness and texture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Red Velvet Waffles Chicken?
A common pitfall is overmixing the waffle batter, which leads to tough waffles. Mix until just combined! Also, ensure your oil is at the correct temperature (350°F) before frying the chicken to avoid greasy, undercooked meat. For more information on safe frying temperatures, consult resources like foodsafety.gov.
Best Ways to Serve Red Velvet Waffles Chicken
This incredible dish is a star on its own, but a few thoughtful pairings can make it even more special. For a truly authentic Southern experience, serve your southern red velvet waffles chicken with a side of creamy coleslaw or a fresh, crisp green salad to balance the richness. A small dollop of extra whipped cream cheese glaze on the side is always a hit, too!
Another fantastic option is to pair it with a side of sweet potato fries. The sweetness of the fries complements the slight tang of the waffles and the savory chicken beautifully. You could also offer a simple side of sautéed greens, like collard greens or kale, for a touch of healthy balance. No matter how you serve it, this unique combination is sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts for Red Velvet Waffles Chicken
Digging into this decadent dish means understanding its nutritional profile. This recipe is designed to be a treat, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, which typically includes one waffle and one piece of chicken.
- Calories: 680
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 820mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For detailed information on dietary guidelines, you can refer to the MyPlate initiative.
How to Store and Reheat Red Velvet Waffles Chicken
Even though this dish is best enjoyed fresh, I know life gets busy! Properly storing and reheating your red velvet waffles chicken means you can enjoy those delicious flavors later. Once everything has cooled down completely, store any leftover chicken separately from the waffles. This is crucial for maintaining the crispiness of the chicken and the tenderness of the waffles. Use airtight containers for both. You can keep them in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For information on food storage safety, consult the USDA’s storage guidelines.
For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual pieces of the cooled chicken and waffles tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags. Properly stored, your red velvet waffles and crispy chicken can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, the best way to revive the chicken’s crispiness is in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can reheat the waffles in the toaster or oven as well.
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Velvet Waffles Chicken
What makes Red Velvet Waffles Chicken so special?
This dish is a unique culinary fusion, combining the iconic sweet and slightly tangy flavors of red velvet cake with the savory, crispy goodness of fried chicken. It’s a delightful contrast that surprises and satisfies, offering a truly memorable eating experience that’s far more exciting than your average meal.
Can I find Red Velvet Waffles Chicken at restaurants?
While it’s becoming more popular, finding dedicated spots for red velvet chicken and waffles near me can be a bit of a treasure hunt! Many Southern-inspired restaurants or brunch cafes might offer it as a special. Your best bet is often to check local food blogs or Yelp for listings. If you can’t find it, making it at home is incredibly rewarding! You can also check out our privacy policy for more information on how we gather recipes.
Where can I find the best Red Velvet Waffles Chicken?
The absolute best place to find this dish is right in your own kitchen! While some trendy restaurants might offer it, the true magic often comes from homemade versions. If you’re looking for restaurants, searching online for “brunch spots” or “Southern food” in your area might show you where to find red velvet waffles chicken, but honestly, this recipe is so good, you won’t need to look far!
Is this dish very sweet or very savory?
It’s a perfect, exciting balance of both! The red velvet waffles bring a delightful sweetness with subtle cocoa notes, while the fried chicken provides that savory, salty, and crispy component. The combination is what makes it so addictive – it hits all the right flavor notes without being overwhelmingly sweet or too heavy.
Variations of Red Velvet Waffles Chicken You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, don’t be afraid to get creative! This dish is a fantastic canvas for all sorts of delicious twists. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, making it even more versatile.
- Spicy Kick: For a truly fiery experience, amp up the heat! Add cayenne pepper or a pinch of ghost pepper powder to the chicken coating for a seriously spicy red velvet waffles chicken. You could also add a dash of cinnamon to the waffle batter for warmth.
- Sweet Treat Version: If you prefer a more dessert-like profile, lean into the sweetness. Add a touch more sugar to the waffles, and consider a drizzle of chocolate ganache or a raspberry coulis alongside the cream cheese glaze for an extra decadent, sweet red velvet waffles chicken delight.
- Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free blend in both the chicken coating and the waffles. Ensure your gluten-free flour mix is suitable for both frying and baking. For more information on gluten-free baking, consult resources like the Celiac Disease Foundation.
- Baked Chicken: If frying isn’t your preferred method, you can bake the chicken. After coating, bake on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown and cooked through, about 25-30 minutes.
Red Velvet Waffles Chicken: Tasty 8-Step Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour (not including marinating)
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This recipe combines crispy fried chicken with tender, cocoa-infused red velvet waffles for a stunning Southern-inspired dish. It’s a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, ideal for brunch or special occasions.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ lbs chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or tenders)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
- For the Red Velvet Waffles:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup melted butter or oil
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- For the Cream Cheese Glaze (optional):
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 – 3 tbsp milk or cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken pieces, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the coating: In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fry the chicken: Dredge chicken in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken for 6–8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
- Make the red velvet waffles: Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, red food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar. Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
- Cook the waffles: Preheat and grease the waffle iron. Pour in batter and cook according to manufacturer’s instructions until crisp and fluffy. Keep warm in a low oven.
- Make the glaze (optional): Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until pourable.
- Assemble: Place a piece of fried chicken on top of a red velvet waffle. Drizzle with maple syrup or cream cheese glaze. Serve hot.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken in buttermilk ensures tenderness and flavor.
- Keep red velvet waffles warm in a 200°F oven while frying the chicken.
- For extra crispiness, double-dip chicken in flour and buttermilk before frying.
- Use gel food coloring for a vibrant red hue in your red velvet waffles.
- Substitute vegan alternatives for a plant-based version of this red velvet chicken and waffles recipe.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Brunch
- Method: Frying and Waffle Iron
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 waffle with 1 piece of chicken
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
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