There’s a certain joy that comes from combining two beloved comfort foods, and that’s exactly what these Chicken and Waffle Skewers achieve. Picture this: bite-sized pieces of crispy chicken paired with fluffy waffles, all drizzled in rich, warm maple syrup. It’s a playful twist on a classic dish that will have both kids and adults asking for seconds!
I came up with this recipe one chilly evening when I was craving something that was both easy to prepare and delightful to serve at a casual gathering. The best part? You can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for game day or a weekend brunch. Trust me when I say, these skewers are not just another appetizer; they’re a mini celebration on a stick, oozing with flavor and fun! So grab your ingredients, and let’s get started on a dish that’s sure to become your new favorite.
Why are Chicken and Waffle Skewers a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: The delightful combination of crispy chicken and fluffy waffles drizzled in warm maple syrup creates an irresistible blend of savory and sweet in every bite.
Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, these skewers are perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love them—serving food on a stick makes it fun and engaging for kids!
Versatile Serve: Whether as an appetizer or a brunch feature, these skewers are perfect for any occasion and pair well with your favorite dips.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your guests at parties or game days with this unique twist on a beloved classic, sparking joy and nostalgia all around.
Chicken and Waffle Skewers Ingredients
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For the Chicken
• Breaded Chicken Breast Chunks – A great main protein source; feel free to substitute with chicken nuggets for an even quicker prep. -
For the Waffles
• Frozen Homestyle Waffles – These add both structure and sweetness; homemade waffles work wonderfully too! -
For the Flavor
• Salted Butter – This ingredient adds richness; unsalted butter is a fine alternative if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Maple Syrup – Sweetens and flavors the dish; honey or agave syrup can serve as a delightful substitute for a unique twist.
• Additional Maple Syrup – Ideal for serving and recommended for that extra burst of sweetness!
How to Make Chicken and Waffle Skewers
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a rimmed baking sheet. This gets everything ready for that perfect golden finish you desire!
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Spread the breaded chicken chunks evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for 12 minutes, letting them get nice and crispy in the meantime.
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Cut each waffle into 9 equal pieces while the chicken bakes. This will give you the ideal bite-sized pieces to perfectly pair with your chicken.
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Mix melted salted butter with maple syrup in a small bowl and set aside. This delightful mixture adds a touch of sweetness to your waffles!
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Arrange your cooked chicken on one side of the pan and place the waffle pieces on the other. Brush the waffles generously with the butter-maple mixture.
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Continue baking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the waffles are golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Enjoy that mouthwatering aroma filling your kitchen!
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Assemble the skewers by threading one piece of chicken and one waffle piece. Serve warm and offer extra maple syrup for those who want an additional sweet drizzle.
Optional: Add fresh fruit or whipped cream on the side for an extra touch of indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken and Waffle Skewers?
These delightful skewers are a playful take on comfort food that invites creativity and pairing possibilities!
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs marvelously with the savory chicken and syrup-infused waffles, adding a crunchy texture to the meal.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi brings a vibrant color and bright flavor that cuts the richness of the skewers.
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Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts: The smoky, crispy bacon complements the sweetness while the Brussels sprouts add an earthy, robust flavor for balance.
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Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: This creamy side is a beloved classic that adds extra indulgence, turning your meal into a nostalgic feast!
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Mini Cauliflower Bites: For a lighter touch, these bites can be roasted with spices for a crunchy side that won’t overpower your skewers.
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Vintage Lemonade: A zesty beverage that refreshes the palate and enhances the sweet-savory experience of the Chicken and Waffle Skewers, making it the perfect drink.
Storage Tips for Chicken and Waffle Skewers
- Fridge: Store leftover Chicken and Waffle Skewers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Layer with parchment paper to prevent sogginess.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual skewers wrapped in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This restores crispiness.
- Serving After Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but if saved, drizzle with warm maple syrup before serving for that delightful flavor boost in your Chicken and Waffle Skewers.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken and Waffle Skewers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the breaded chicken chunks up to 24 hours in advance by cooking them and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The waffle pieces can also be cut ahead of time and stored separately, helping maintain their texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in the oven until crispy and warm, then quickly bake the waffles with the butter-maple mixture for about 3 minutes until golden. This way, you’ll have delicious, warm Chicken and Waffle Skewers ready in no time, just as scrumptious as if they were made fresh!
Expert Tips for Chicken and Waffle Skewers
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Check Chicken Instructions: Always refer to the packaging for cooking times, especially if you’re using larger chicken pieces to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked.
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Golden Waffles: Keep an eye on the waffles to prevent burning; you want them golden brown and slightly crispy for the perfect contrast with the chicken.
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Mix It Up: Experiment with different flavored waffles, like blueberry or chocolate, to give your Chicken and Waffle Skewers an unexpected twist.
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Kid-Friendly Adjustments: If your little ones are picky, let them help assemble the skewers, making mealtime more engaging and fun!
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Sweetness Levels: Always serve extra maple syrup on the side for anyone who loves a touch more sweetness; it can make a world of difference in flavor!
Chicken and Waffle Skewers Variations
Get ready to put your own spin on these delicious skewers and make them uniquely yours!
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Waffle Flavors: Swap out the regular waffles for chocolate or pumpkin spice ones for an unexpected twist.
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Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with turkey or even crispy tofu for a delightful vegetarian alternative. Each option brings its own unique flavor profile!
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Sweet & Savory: Smear the waffles with a layer of cream cheese or herbed cheese spread before stacking for an extra savory layer to complement the sweetness.
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Add Spice: Sprinkle cayenne pepper on the chicken before baking for a spicy kick that complements the maple syrup beautifully.
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Fruit Pairing: Add fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or bananas on the skewers for a touch of natural sweetness and color.
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Dipping Sauces: Instead of syrup, try serving with ranch or BBQ sauce for a fun flavor alternative that’s equally delightful.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free waffles and chicken alternatives to make this dish accessible to all dietary needs.
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Savory Toppings: Top with crispy bacon bits for a smoky crunch that enhances both the chicken and the waffles’ flavors.
Chicken and Waffle Skewers Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for Chicken and Waffle Skewers?
You can use breaded chicken breast chunks for a homemade touch, or save time with high-quality chicken nuggets or popcorn chicken. If you’re in a hurry, chicken nuggets work fantastically and are an easy, kid-friendly substitute!
How should I store leftovers from Chicken and Waffle Skewers?
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I recommend layering them with parchment paper to prevent the waffles from getting soggy and losing their delightful crunch.
Can I freeze Chicken and Waffle Skewers?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each skewer individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. This method helps to keep them fresh and can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if my waffles aren’t browning enough while baking?
If your waffles aren’t browning properly, make sure you’re using the right oven temperature (425°F/220°C) and check your bake time. If they still need a boost, you can broil them on high for a minute or two, but keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Are Chicken and Waffle Skewers suitable for kids with allergies?
It’s important to consider any allergies. If you have someone allergic to gluten, you might try using gluten-free chicken nuggets and waffles. Always read labels thoroughly for potential allergens and modify ingredients as necessary to accommodate dietary needs.
How do I make these skewers more appealing for kids?
To engage kids, let them take part in assembling the skewers! You could set up a mini “skewer bar” with various toppings, such as fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even different flavored syrups. The more the merrier when it comes to fun at meal time!
Savory Chicken and Waffle Skewers for a Fun Twist at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a rimmed baking sheet.
- Spread the breaded chicken chunks evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for 12 minutes.
- Cut each waffle into 9 equal pieces while the chicken bakes.
- Mix melted salted butter with maple syrup in a small bowl and set aside.
- Arrange your cooked chicken on one side of the pan and place the waffle pieces on the other.
- Continue baking for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Assemble the skewers by threading one piece of chicken and one waffle piece.