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### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by preparing the **fried chicken**. In a large bowl, combine the **buttermilk** and **hot sauce** (if using). Season with a pinch of **salt** and **pepper**. Place the **chicken thighs** (or chicken breasts) into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least **2 hours**, or overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Dredging Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **paprika**, **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, **cayenne pepper**, **salt**, and **pepper**. This will form your dredging mixture.
#### Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk and let any excess liquid drip off. Dredge the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coat. Shake off any excess flour and set the chicken aside.
#### Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat **vegetable oil** in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge at least half of the chicken. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small amount of flour into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about **8-10 minutes per side** (depending on the size of your chicken), until the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches **165°F (75°C)**. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
#### Step 5: Make the Waffles
While the chicken is frying, prepare the waffles. In a large bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **sugar**, **baking powder**, **salt**, and **cinnamon** (if using). In another bowl, whisk the **eggs**, **milk**, **melted butter**, and **vanilla extract** until well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Preheat your **waffle iron** according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or a small amount of butter. Pour the batter into the waffle iron, making sure to spread it evenly. Close the waffle iron and cook for about **3-5 minutes**, or until the waffles are golden and crisp. Repeat with the remaining batter.
#### Step 6: Assemble the Ultimate Fried Chicken & Waffles Box
Now that your fried chicken and waffles are ready, it’s time to assemble your **Ultimate Fried Chicken & Waffles Box**!
– Place one or two freshly made waffles at the bottom of each box or plate.
– Top the waffles with a piece of **crispy fried chicken**.
– Drizzle with **maple syrup** and dust with **powdered sugar**.
– Add a dollop of **butter** on the side, if desired.
– For a fresh touch, add some **fresh fruit** like strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices on top.
#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your ultimate fried chicken and waffles box immediately while the waffles are hot and crispy, and the fried chicken is still juicy and crunchy. This is comfort food at its finest – the perfect blend of sweet, savory, crispy, and soft. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a refreshing iced tea for the ultimate meal!
### Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken & Waffles:
1. **Marinate for tenderness**: The longer the chicken marinates in the buttermilk, the more flavorful and tender it will be. If possible, marinate overnight for the best results.
2. **Double-dip for extra crispy chicken**: For an even crispier crust, you can double-dip the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture before frying.
3. **Don’t overcrowd the frying pan**: Fry the chicken in batches if necessary to prevent the oil temperature from dropping, ensuring a crispy and golden crust.
4. **Customize your waffles**: Add ingredients like **chocolate chips**, **blueberries**, or **pecans** to the waffle batter for a personalized twist.
5. **Make-ahead option**: You can make the fried chicken and waffles ahead of time, then reheat in the oven or toaster oven for a crispy finish before serving.
### Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Fried Chicken & Waffles Box:
– **The perfect combo**: The crunchy, savory fried chicken paired with the soft, fluffy waffles is a perfect contrast of textures, and the maple syrup ties it all together beautifully.
– **Comforting and filling**: This dish is hearty and satisfying—great for brunch, a family dinner, or a weekend treat.
– **Customizable**: You can add your favorite toppings or adjust the level of sweetness and spiciness to suit your taste.
– **Great for meal prep**: Make everything ahead of time and reheat for an easy, delicious meal whenever you’re craving comfort food!
### Conclusion:
This **Ultimate Fried Chicken & Waffles Box Recipe** brings the best of both worlds together in one meal. With crispy, juicy fried chicken and fluffy, golden waffles, drizzled with sweet syrup, you’re sure to be in comfort food heaven. Whether you’re indulging on a lazy weekend morning or surprising your family with a delicious dinner, this recipe is sure to make your taste buds sing.
Try this recipe today, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate fried chicken and waffles experience! 🍗🧇
