Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Frank's RedHot)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups (192g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (approx. 4 cups/950ml)
  • 2 cups (256g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 3/4 cups (415ml) milk
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
  • Maple syrup
  • Hot sauce (optional)
  • Butter (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Combine chicken, buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
  2. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a cast-iron skillet or deep fryer to 325°F (160°C). Maintain this temperature throughout frying.
  4. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
  5. Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Remove chicken from the oil and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  7. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter.
  8. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
  9. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer's instructions. Pour batter onto the hot waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crispy.
  10. Place a waffle on a plate, top with fried chicken, and drizzle generously with maple syrup and hot sauce (if desired). Add a pat of butter if you're feeling particularly decadent.