Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a large bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce.

• Add chicken pieces, ensuring they’re fully coated.

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best for flavor and tenderness).

Step 2: Prepare the Waffle Batter

• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

• In another bowl, mix eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla.

• Combine wet and dry ingredients; mix just until smooth. Do not overmix.

• Let the batter rest while you fry the chicken.

Step 3: Dredge and Fry the Chicken

• In a shallow dish, combine flour with spices.

• Remove chicken from marinade, let excess drip off.

• Coat in flour mixture, pressing to adhere.

• Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F.

• Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through (~6–8 minutes depending on size).

• Drain on a wire rack.

Step 4: Cook the Waffles

• Preheat your waffle iron and grease it lightly.

• Pour batter onto the center and cook until golden and crisp.

• Keep waffles warm in a low oven if making multiple.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

• Place a waffle on a plate.

• Top with hot, crispy fried chicken.

• Add butter, drizzle with maple syrup or hot honey.

• Enjoy every perfect bite.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Use buttermilk for both chicken and waffles—it adds flavor and tenderness.

• Double-dip the chicken for an extra crispy crust: dip in flour, then buttermilk, then flour again.

• Don’t overcrowd the fryer: frying in small batches keeps the oil temperature consistent.

• Keep it warm: Use a 200°F oven to keep fried chicken and waffles warm until ready to serve.

• Preheat your waffle iron fully for that golden crisp.