There’s nothing quite like the joyful chaos of a weekend brunch, where the blend of laughter, conversation, and delicious aromas fills the air. One particular morning, inspired by a vibrant red hue and a craving for comfort food, I decided to reinvent the classic combination of chicken and waffles. Enter the indulgent world of Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken—a dish that takes the familiar and elevates it with the rich, nostalgic flavors of Southern cuisine.

As I stood in my kitchen, the sound of sizzling chicken in hot oil and the fragrant notes of vanilla danced around me, creating an atmosphere full of excitement. Fluffy, sweet waffles draped in red velvet perfection complement the savory crunch of perfectly seasoned chicken, making this meal a true crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple Saturday morning, this recipe is here to inject a little love into your kitchen. Ready to make your mornings unforgettable? Let’s dive into this delectable adventure!

Why are Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken a must-try?

Unique Flavor Combination: This recipe presents a delightful mix of sweet and savory that transforms your breakfast into an experience.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family gatherings or brunch parties, it guarantees smiles all around!
Easy Preparation: No advanced cooking skills required; anyone can whip these up effortlessly.
Versatile Options: Customize by using baked chicken or swapping out syrups for endless varieties.
Showstopper Presentation: The striking red hue makes a stunning centerpiece for any table.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and togetherness. Enjoy every bite!

Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken Ingredients

A delightful mixture awaits!

For the Waffles
• 4 cups Waffle mix – The base providing fluffiness and structure; feel free to use your favorite brand.
• 2 medium Eggs – Adds richness to the batter, ensuring fluffy waffles.
• 1 tablespoon Cocoa powder – Offers essential chocolatey notes characteristic of red velvet.
• 2 tablespoons Red food coloring – Enhances the stunning color; beet powder is a great natural alternative!
• ⅛ teaspoon Vanilla extract – Infuses warmth and depth into each bite.

For the Chicken
• 8-10 Chicken wings – The savory star of the dish; you can also use drums or flats for variety.
• 2 cups Vegetable oil – For frying, achieving that perfect crispy texture we all love.
• 2 cups All-purpose flour – Creates a deliciously crispy coating for the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons Seasoning salt – Enhances flavors beautifully; adjust according to preference.
• 2 teaspoons Garlic powder – Adds savory depth, elevating the chicken’s overall taste.
• 2 teaspoons Onion powder – Complements garlic perfectly for a savory punch.
• 1 teaspoon Paprika – Brings in a subtle smokiness for added complexity.
• 1 tablespoon Black pepper – Infuses just the right amount of spice to wake up your taste buds.

With these Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a mouthwatering brunch masterpiece! Happy cooking!

How to Make Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken

Prep Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat, ensuring it reaches about 350°F for frying. Season the chicken wings with seasoning salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper to create a savory base.
Breading: In a shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour with additional seasoning if desired. Gently coat each seasoned chicken wing in the flour mixture, making sure to cover all surfaces for an even, crispy crust.
Fry Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken wings into the hot oil, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, drain them on a rack to retain the crunchiness.
Prepare Waffles: In a large bowl, combine the waffle mix with eggs, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Mix according to package instructions until you have a smooth batter. The vibrant red color makes it visually appealing!
Cook Waffles: Preheat your waffle maker, then pour an appropriate amount of batter onto the center, closing the lid. Cook until the waffles are golden and fluffy, following the manufacturer’s instructions for timing.
Serve: Plate the waffles and dust with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. Serve alongside the crispy fried chicken, and feel free to drizzle with warm syrup for that perfect sweet-savory experience.

Optional: Garnish with fresh fruit or a homemade fruit compote for a refreshing twist.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover red velvet waffles in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep them fluffy, place a piece of parchment paper between the waffles.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze waffle portions individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Waffles: To restore waffles’ crispiness, heat them in a toaster or oven until warmed through rather than using the microwave.

Fried Chicken Storage: Keep fried chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes for a crispy result.

Make Ahead Options

These Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken are perfect for meal prep, making your bustling mornings a breeze! You can prep the seasoned chicken up to 3 days in advance by marinating it in the spices and refrigerating it in an airtight container. The waffle batter can also be mixed and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the chicken until crispy and reheat the waffles in a toaster or waffle maker until warm and fluffy. This way, you’ll enjoy tender, flavorful chicken and delightful waffles—just as delicious as if made fresh!

Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dish and explore endless possibilities!

Baked Chicken: Swap fried wings for baked drumsticks simple to prepare and healthier too!
Whole Wheat Waffles: Use whole wheat flour for a heartier, nuttier flavor while packing in extra fiber.
Chocolatey Twist: Add chocolate chips to the waffle batter for a rich, gooey surprise in every bite.
Coconut Milk: Substitute regular milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist that complements the red velvet beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Mix cayenne pepper into your seasoning for the chicken to elevate the heat factor and excite your palate.
Nutty Addition: Toss in crushed pecans or walnuts into the waffle mix for added crunch and nutty goodness.”
Maple Syrup: Drizzle infused maple syrup with cinnamon or bourbon for a gourmet finish that will make your taste buds sing.
Fruit Compote: Top the assembly with a vibrant berry compote to boost freshness and color—perfect for those who love a zing!

What to Serve with Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken?

The perfect meal deserves the perfect companions to enhance its deliciousness and elevate your dining experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of berries and tropical fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish, adding a burst of color and nutrition.
Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm maple syrup over the waffles offers a classic sweet touch, balancing the savory crunch of the chicken beautifully.
Sweet Cream Cheese Spread: Spread some cream cheese infused with a hint of vanilla on the waffles for an extra creamy layer that enhances their flavor.
Spiced Butter: A compound butter with cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth and richness, melting into the waffles and complementing the fried chicken perfectly.
Coffee or Mimosa: Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a bubbly mimosa for a delightful beverage pairing that suits the brunch vibes.
Bourbon Sauce: A touch of bourbon caramel sauce can add a sweet and boozy kick, turning your meal into a more decadent experience.

With these delightful pairings, your Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken will shine even brighter as the centerpiece of your table!

Expert Tips for Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken

Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is at 350°F for frying; too hot can burn the chicken, while too cold results in sogginess. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Homemade Waffle Mix: If you choose to make your waffle mix from scratch, adjust the ingredient ratios carefully to maintain a perfect fluffy texture.
Breading Technique: Apply the flour mixture gently but thoroughly; avoid pressing too hard on the chicken, which can lead to a tough coating.
Crispier Chicken: For extra crispiness, double dip the chicken in the flour mix by briefly dipping it in a mixture of egg and water before coating with flour again.
Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time for both waffles and chicken; overcooking can lead to dryness, while undercooking risks compromising the meal’s deliciousness.
Sauce Suggestions: Experiment with different syrups like chocolate or caramel to complement the sweet flavor of the waffles and the savory chicken.

Enjoy crafting these delightful Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken; they are sure to impress!

Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of waffle mix should I use?
Any standard waffle mix will work beautifully for the Red Velvet Waffles, providing a fluffy and delightful base. If you’re feeling adventurous, making your waffle mix from scratch will allow you to customize flavors and achieve that perfect fluffiness!

How do I store leftover waffles and chicken?
Store leftover red velvet waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve their texture, place parchment paper between layers. The fried chicken can also be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

Can I freeze the waffles or chicken?
Absolutely! For best results, freeze the waffles wrapped individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in an oven or toaster for that lovely crispiness. Fried chicken can also be frozen in an airtight container for about 3 months.

What if my chicken isn’t crispy enough?
If your chicken turned out a bit soggy, it’s likely due to the oil temperature being too low or overcrowding the pan. For that shatteringly crispy result, ensure your oil is at around 350°F before frying. It’s also a great idea to use a cooling rack after frying to keep it crisp without trapping moisture.

Is there an alternative for the red food coloring?
Yes! For a natural alternative to the red food coloring, you can substitute with beet powder. It adds a beautiful hue along with some additional nutritional benefits!