If you think brunch can’t be both whimsical and satisfying, think again! Picture vibrant, fluffy red velvet waffles topped with perfectly seasoned crispy chicken—this dish will transform your leisurely mornings into something truly extraordinary. The delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors dances on your palate, making it the perfect indulgence for those weekends when you want to impress or just treat yourself.
As the sun filters through your kitchen window, the aromas of cocoa and seasoned fried chicken fill the air, creating an inviting atmosphere that calls everyone to the table. Best of all, this recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it a quick yet delightful option for busy families or a special occasion with friends. Whether you’re flipping for a brunch gathering or simply enjoying a cozy morning, these red velvet waffles and chicken are sure to steal the spotlight and warm the heart. Get your spatula ready—let’s dive into this sweet and savory brunch delight!
Why are Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken special?
Whimsical Appeal: This fun twist on a classic dish brightens up your brunch table with vibrant colors and unique taste.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy mornings or last-minute get-togethers.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of fluffy, sweet waffles and crispy, savory chicken creates an unforgettable flavor sensation.
Crowd-Pleasing: Great for impressing guests or indulging family, making it a guaranteed hit at any brunch gathering.
Versatile Options: Customize with different syrups or toppings for a unique spin every time. Experience how this dish can elevate your brunch game; check out our other breakfast recipes for more delightful ideas!
Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken Ingredients
Get ready to create a brunch masterpiece with this sweet and savory delight!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Wings – The main protein source for a crispy texture; swap with chicken tenders for easier kid-friendly bites.
- Flour – Breading for the chicken that adds crunch; substitute with gluten-free flour for those with dietary needs.
- Seasonings (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper) – Enhance the chicken’s flavor; adjust these to suit your taste preference.
For the Waffles
- Waffle Mix – Base for the fluffy waffles; grab a pre-made mix to save time or whip up from scratch for a homemade touch.
- Cocoa Powder – Adds depth of flavor and a beautiful color to the waffles; omit for a classic waffle recipe experience.
- Eggs – Essential for binding the waffle mixture; do not substitute to achieve the best texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Brightens the flavor of the waffles; almond extract can be used if you’re looking for a slight variation.
- Red Food Coloring – For that signature vibrant hue; optional if you prefer to skip artificial coloring.
For Serving
- Maple Syrup – The sweet drizzle that ties the dish together; alternatives like honey hot sauce can infuse a kick of flavor.
How to Make Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken
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Fry Chicken:
Start by heating oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken wings with a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, and coat them with flour. Fry in hot oil for about 7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Drain on paper towels. -
Prepare Waffles:
Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In a bowl, combine the waffle mix with eggs, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Cook the batter in the preheated waffle iron until the waffles are golden brown and steam begins to escape. -
Serve:
Arrange the fluffy red velvet waffles on a plate, top them with the crispy fried chicken, and drizzle generously with maple syrup or your favorite sauce. Serve immediately for the best experience!
Optional: Garnish with fresh fruit or whipped cream for an extra special touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy mornings! You can prepare the chicken wings by seasoning and frying them up to 3 days in advance; just ensure they’re stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispiness. The waffle batter can also be mixed ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours—this not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the waffles in your preheated waffle iron until golden, and reheat the chicken for a few minutes in the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy irresistibly delicious brunch in no time!
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken
- Fridge: Store leftover red velvet waffles and chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavors and freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the waffles and chicken individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat waffles in a toaster or flip them in a hot skillet for a few minutes. Fry the chicken in a skillet or bake in the oven until heated through and crispy.
- Assembly: If combined in one dish before storage, try to keep the waffle and chicken separate to ensure they maintain their ideal texture when reheated.
Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken Variations
Customize this delightful dish to suit your taste and explore exciting new flavors!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the chicken breading and a gluten-free waffle mix for a delicious alternative.
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning or drizzle sriracha honey on top for a fiery twist.
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Fruit Toppings: Serve with fresh strawberries or blueberries for a burst of natural sweetness and a pop of color.
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Savory Waffles: Mix in crumbled bacon or shredded cheese to the waffle batter for a rich, savory flavor.
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Honey Butter Drizzle: Whip up a honey butter glaze to drizzle over the chicken for a sweet and buttery finish.
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Cocoa-Free Waffles: Omit cocoa powder for a classic vanilla waffle taste, allowing the savory chicken to shine.
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Herb-Infused Chicken: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the seasoning for an aromatic depth.
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Nutty Flavor: Top with chopped nuts for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the sweet waffles.
Let your creativity shine as you mix and match these variations for a brunch that’s full of surprises!
What to Serve with Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken?
Imagine a brunch table where every bite is a delightful surprise, harmonizing the sweetness of waffles with savory chicken. Elevate your meal experience by pairing with these perfect sides!
- Scrambled Eggs: A classic breakfast staple that adds a creamy, fluffy texture, creating a comforting harmony with the waffles.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh, vibrant fruits like strawberries and blueberries bring a refreshing contrast and help cut through the sweetness. Their brightness complements the dish beautifully.
- Breakfast Sausages: Savory and slightly spicy, these sausages add a heartiness that pairs seamlessly with the delicate sweetness of the waffles.
- Coffee or Espresso: An aromatic cup of coffee provides the perfect pick-me-up and balances the sweetness of the dish, enhancing the overall brunch experience.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds a refreshing crunch to each bite, contrasting wonderfully with the soft waffles and tender chicken.
- Maple Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon drizzled with a hint of maple syrup creates a fabulous sweet and savory explosion to complement your dish splendidly.
- Mimosas: Start your brunch on a festive note! Light, bubbly, and refreshing, they offer a lively touch that pairs delightfully with the richness of the waffles and chicken.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For those looking to add an extra touch of decadence, a light chocolate drizzle on the waffles can make this brunch a decadent treat to remember.
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken
- Perfectly Preheat: Ensure your oil is fully heated before frying the chicken to achieve that crispy texture. A thermometer can help you check the temperature.
- Don’t Lift the Lid: Resist the urge to open the waffle iron before cooking is complete. Lifting the lid too early can lead to uneven cooking.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Adjust the frying time based on the size of the chicken wings to avoid undercooked or burnt pieces.
- Customize the Flavor: Feel free to play with the seasonings on the chicken or the syrup options to enhance the sweet and savory balance to your liking.
- Serve Fresh: For the best experience, serve your Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken immediately after cooking to keep everything warm and crispy.
Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken Recipe FAQs
How should I select my chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choose chicken wings that are fresh and free of dark spots or unpleasant odors. If you’re looking for a kid-friendly alternative, chicken tenders or thighs work great too!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very good question! Store leftover red velvet waffles and chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures they maintain their flavors and freshness. For optimal texture, you should reheat in a toaster or oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I freeze red velvet waffles and chicken?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap the waffles and chicken individually in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop the waffles in a toaster or bake in a hot oven, and warm the chicken in a skillet or oven until it’s heated through and crispy.
What should I do if my chicken isn’t crispy enough?
If your chicken turns out less crispy than desired, make sure that your oil was hot enough before frying—ideally, it should be between 350°F to 375°F. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature. Frying in batches will help achieve that perfect crispy texture!
Can I customize the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. You can replace regular flour with gluten-free flour for those with gluten sensitivities. Additionally, you might consider using natural food coloring instead of red dye if you’re looking for a more natural option. Just check your seasonings for any potential allergens based on your dietary needs.
Is this dish suitable for children or picky eaters?
Very much so! The sweetness of the red velvet waffles can be appealing to children, and by swapping out the chicken wings for tenders or thighs, you can create a dish that’s easier for little hands to manage. The crunchiness of the chicken adds an exciting texture that even picky eaters can enjoy, especially with their favorite dipping sauces!
Red Velvet Waffles and Chicken: A Fun Twist for Brunch Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken wings with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, and coat with flour. Fry for about 7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked. Drain on paper towels.
- Preheat waffle iron. In a bowl, mix waffle mix with eggs, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Cook in the waffle iron until golden brown.
- Arrange waffles on plates, top with crispy chicken, and drizzle with maple syrup. Serve immediately.
