Chicken and waffles is a delicious soul food dish that combines crispy fried chicken with sweet waffles. This unexpected flavor combination has become a beloved menu item, especially for brunch. But when is the best time of day to enjoy this savory-sweet combo?
The History of Chicken and Waffles
While the exact origins are debated, chicken and waffles likely emerged in the early 1900s in African American communities in the Southern United States. Some credit jazz clubs in Harlem, NY, where musicians would eat the dish late into the night after performances. Others trace it back to Pennsylvania Dutch communities who served fried chicken with syrupy waffles.
The dish gained more mainstream popularity in the 1970s and 80s, showing up on soul food restaurant menus across the country. Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles in Los Angeles helped bring chicken and waffles to the West Coast starting in 1975. Soon the dish became a staple on menus across the U.S.
Chicken and Waffles for Breakfast
Chicken and waffles is most commonly seen as a breakfast or brunch food. The waffles provide a base for the dish, just as pancakes or toast might serve as the foundation for a breakfast plate. The crispy, juicy fried chicken offers a savory contrast to the sweet waffle base.
For many diners, chicken and waffles hits the spot as an indulgent weekend brunch. The salty, crunchy fried chicken paired with a sweet waffle dripping with butter and syrup is decadent. It’s a filling meal that will provide sustenance well into the afternoon.
Serving chicken and waffles for breakfast or brunch also allows the components – like the fried chicken and homemade waffle batter – to be prepared fresh in the morning. The chicken stays crispier when served straight from the fryer. And waffles have a delightful texture when cooked to order.
Benefits of Chicken and Waffles for Breakfast
- Satisfying, filling meal to start the day
- Savory and sweet elements provide flavor variety
- Warm, fresh-made components
- Indulgent weekend brunch option
Chicken and Waffles for Lunch or Dinner
While chicken and waffles is best known as a breakfast or brunch food, it can also make an unique and tasty meal for lunch or dinner.
For a lighter lunch, chicken and waffles can be portioned out into single servings. The chicken can be served on top of a petite waffle, compared to the large plate-sized waffles often served at brunch. Pair it with a side salad for a satisfying lunch.
Chicken and waffles also shines as a fun dinner option. For a weeknight meal, choose boneless fried chicken tenders or nuggets to quicken prep time. Or host a chicken and waffles dinner party and make it the star meal of the evening.
Serving chicken and waffles later in the day allows you to get creative with additional toppings and innovative chicken preparations. At dinner, you could use chicken with more complex flavors like jerk seasoning or smoky barbecue sauce paired with a ginger molasses waffle. The possibilities are endless!
Benefits of Chicken and Waffles for Lunch or Dinner
- Lighter portion sizes for lunch
- Fun, unique dinner party theme
- More room for creative flavors and combinations
- Skip breakfast foods and enjoy at a different meal
Best Practices for Any Time of Day
While chicken and waffles can be enjoyed morning, noon, or night, there are some best practices to ensure deliciousness whenever you dig in:
- Use high-quality chicken. Fresh, boneless chicken thighs or breasts work best. Pound them to a uniform thickness so they fry up crisp.
- Make waffles from scratch for best texture and flavor. Use plenty of butter in the batter.
- Fry the chicken until deeply golden brown. Let excess oil drain off.
- Serve the chicken right on top of the waffle so it stays ultra-crispy.
- Include favorite toppings like butter, syrup, honey, or hot sauce.
- Customize flavors with spices, sauces, or mix-ins to the batter.
- Enjoy with sides like bacon, fruit, or a leafy salad.
The Verdict on the Best Time for Chicken and Waffles
Chicken and waffles is so delicious, there’s truly no bad time to enjoy this soul food favorite. However, breakfast or brunch allows you to savor the signature crispy fried chicken and fresh waffles at their prime.
As a weekend brunch, chicken and waffles is hands-down one of the most satisfying treats. You can relax over a generous portion and linger over piping hot coffee. The indulgence just feels more special as a morning meal.
That said, don’t hesitate to switch up the routine and have chicken and waffles for lunch or dinner. Just scale down the portion sizes a bit and get creative with additional toppings and flavors. No matter when you eat it, chicken and waffles always hits the spot!