Honey Fried Chicken and Waffles

Ingredients

For the Fried Chicken:

• 6 bone-in chicken thighs (or a mix of thighs and drumsticks)

• 2 cups buttermilk

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup cornstarch

• 2 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp salt

• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Waffles:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 ¾ cups milk

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Honey Butter Drizzle:

• ½ cup honey

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Place chicken pieces in a large bowl and cover with buttermilk. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).

2. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.

3. Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing to coat well.

4. Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

2. Make the Waffles

1. Preheat your waffle iron.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla.

4. Pour wet ingredients into dry and mix until just combined (do not overmix).

5. Cook batter in the waffle iron until golden brown and crisp.

3. Honey Butter Drizzle

1. Mix honey, melted butter, and cinnamon until smooth and glossy.

4. Assemble

1. Place a hot waffle on a plate, top with a piece (or two) of crispy fried chicken.

2. Drizzle generously with honey butter.

3. Optional: sprinkle with fresh parsley or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.