Waffle House Fried Chicken Recipe At Home

When it comes to comfort food that satisfies both the soul and the taste buds, few things can rival the timeless appeal of fried chicken.

In the realm of delectable fried chicken creations, Waffle House has carved out a name for itself with its signature “Waffle House Fried Chicken.”

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the delicious world of Waffle House Fried Chicken, exploring its origins.

What Is The Waffle House Fried Chicken?

Waffle House fried chicken is a classic and beloved dish served at Waffle House, a famous American restaurant chain known for its breakfast and comfort food. The fried chicken at Waffle House is known for its crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful meat.

The Waffle House fried chicken is beloved for its simplicity, flavorful coating, and delightful texture. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a comforting and indulgent meal.

How Long Will It Take To Prepare?

• Brining the chicken: Approximately 2 hours (or overnight) for the chicken to marinate in buttermilk.
• I am preparing the coating: Mix the flour and spices for 10-15 minutes.
• Frying the chicken: Approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on the number of chicken pieces and the size of your frying vessel.
• Resting time: 5-10 minutes for the fried chicken to drain excess oil and cool slightly.
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 2-3 servings
• Difficulty level: Easy

How Do You Make The Waffle House Fried Chicken?

Essential Ingredients For Waffle House Fried Chicken

For the Chicken

• 4-6 bone-in chicken pieces (such as thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Coating

• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• One teaspoon paprika
• One teaspoon of garlic powder
• One teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Frying

• Vegetable oil for frying

Essential Instructions For The Waffle House Fried Chicken

Step 1

Brining the Chicken

Place the chicken drumsticks and thighs in an enormous bowl or holder. Ensure the chicken is covered in buttermilk before pouring it over it.

Step 2

Refrigerate the container with a cover for at least two hours, preferably overnight. The chicken is made more tender and flavorful during the brining process.

Step 3

Preparing the Coating

In a shallow dish, join the regular baking flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and dark pepper. Blend well to convey the flavors equally.

Step 4

After removing the chicken from the buttermilk, allow any remaining liquid to drain away. Coat each piece of chicken in the carefully prepared flour blend, squeezing delicately to stick the covering to the chicken.

Step 5

Frying the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a considerable skillet or profound fryer to around 350°F (175°C). Cautiously place the covered chicken pieces into the hot oil, skin side down.

Step 6

Sear the chicken for around 10-12 minutes for every side, or until the inward temperature comes to 165°F (74°C) and the chicken becomes brilliant brown and fresh. Move the broiled chicken to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to deplete the overabundance oil.

Step 7

Serving and Enjoying

Your Waffle House-style seared chicken is presently fit to be served and appreciated. Some suggestions for helping:

Serve the broiled chicken close by exemplary Southern sides like pureed potatoes, coleslaw, and rolls. Shower some hot sauce or honey over the chicken for an additional kick of flavor. Embellish with new spices, like parsley or cilantro, for added newness.

Additional Tips For Waffle House Fried Chicken:

• Oil temperature control: Maintain a consistent oil temperature of around 350°F (175°C) while frying the chicken. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a crispy exterior.
• Resting time: Allow the coated chicken to rest for a few minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better and results in a crispier texture.
• Batch frying: Avoid overcrowding the pan or fryer. Fry the chicken in batches, giving each piece enough space to cook properly. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and lead to greasy chicken.
• Drain excess oil: Place the chicken on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain extra oil after frying. This helps to remove any excess grease and keeps the chicken crispy.
• Testing for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Precautions For Waffle House Fried Chicken:

• Safe handling of raw chicken: Practice proper food safety by washing your hands thoroughly before and after handling raw chicken. Avoid cross-contamination using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken and other ingredients.
• Hot oil safety: Avoid accidents and burns when working with hot oil. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature, and carefully lower the chicken into the oil to prevent splattering.
• Avoid overcrowding: Overcrowding the pan or fryer can lead to uneven cooking and a greasy coating. Fry the chicken in batches to maintain consistent heat and achieve optimal results.
• Dispose of oil properly: Allow the oil to cool completely before disposing. Do not pour hot grease down the sink, which can cause clogs and other plumbing issues. Instead, store the cooled oil in a sealable container and dispose of it according to local regulations.
• Allergen considerations: If you or your guests have food allergies or dietary restrictions, be mindful of the ingredients used and potential cross-contamination. Use suitable alternatives and inform guests about the ingredients used in the fried chicken.

Nutrition Facts Of Waffle House Fried Chicken

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used, cooking methods, and portion sizes.

It’s essential to be mindful of the quantity consumed and consider any additional ingredients or sides that may contribute to the overall nutritional content of the meal.

5 Best Variations Of Waffle House Fried Chicken

1. Spicy Southern Twist:

Add heat to your fried chicken by incorporating cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the seasoning mixture. This variation gives the chicken a spicy kick and an extra layer of flavor.

2. Buttermilk Ranch Delight:

Infuse the chicken with a tangy and herby flavor by marinating it in buttermilk with ranch dressing. This variation adds a creamy and zesty twist to the classic fried chicken.

3. Honey Mustard Glaze:

Drizzle a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze over the fried chicken for flavor. The combination of honey and mustard complements the crispy chicken perfectly.

4. Lemon Herb Infusion:

Infuse the chicken with the bright and refreshing flavors of lemon and herbs. Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the flour coating for a fragrant and flavorful variation.

5. Smoky BBQ Coating:

Mix barbecue seasoning or smoked paprika into the flour coating to give the fried chicken a smoky and savory flavor. This variation pairs well with classic barbecue sauces and adds depth to the overall taste.

Conclusion

Now you know the secret behind the irresistible Waffle House fried chicken. Following these steps, you can recreate the same crispy and flavorful chicken at home. Enjoy the delicious taste and share this homemade treat with your family and friends.

People Frequently Ask Questions

Waffle House Fried Chicken is incredibly versatile. While delicious, it can also be enjoyed with various sides, such as mashed potatoes, waffles, biscuits, and more.

Waffle House prides itself on using high-quality, fresh chicken for its fried chicken. The choice of chicken contributes to the dish’s tenderness and superior taste.