Craving that iconic, crispy-fried chicken and fluffy waffle combination? Forget the long lines and high prices! This Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles recipe lets you recreate this beloved dish right in your own kitchen. It’s easier than you think, and the result? Pure, unadulterated deliciousness. Get ready for a taste of comfort food perfection – a truly satisfying meal perfect for a weekend brunch or a delightful dinner. This recipe offers easy-to-follow instructions, even for beginner cooks, making it a go-to for quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, all while embracing the joy of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
For the Crispy Fried Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Buttermilk Waffles:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For Serving:
- Syrup (maple syrup is traditional)
- Butter
Instructions:
Preparing the Crispy Fried Chicken:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- In a separate shallow dish, whisk the beaten eggs and buttermilk.
- Dip each chicken piece in the buttermilk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a pinch of flour dropped in sizzles immediately.
- Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 6-8 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.
Making the Buttermilk Waffles:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and whisk gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Heat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Pour the batter onto the hot waffle iron, following the manufacturer's instructions for the amount of batter to use.
- Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes.
Serving your Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles:
- Place a warm waffle on a plate.
- Top with 2-3 pieces of crispy fried chicken.
- Drizzle generously with syrup and add a pat of butter.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken. This will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken instead of crispy chicken. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after frying before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
- For extra crispy waffles, let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes before cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy kick: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder to the chicken seasoning.
- Sweet and savory: Drizzle honey or a fruit syrup over the waffles in addition to maple syrup.
- Herby chicken: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken seasoning.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used. It's best to use a nutrition calculator for a precise estimate based on your recipe adjustments. Expect a relatively high calorie count due to the fried chicken and butter.
This homemade Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles recipe delivers a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your kitchen. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal – a true testament to the magic of homemade cooking and a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and best recipes.