If you’re looking for a fun and irresistible way to enjoy a classic comfort food combo, this Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Imagine golden, crispy mini waffles sandwiching perfectly heated, crunchy chicken wings layered with the smoky sweetness of bacon jam, all drizzled with luscious maple syrup. It’s a bite-sized burst of sweet and savory that’s perfect for gatherings, game day, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something delightfully different. Trust me, once you try these sliders, they’ll be the star of your snack time or party platter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic in this Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe comes from a handful of simple yet impactful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s bringing crispy texture, smoky sweetness, or that unmistakable hint of maple to tie everything together.
- 2 cups pancake and waffle mix: The base for mini waffles, providing a fluffy, golden foundation that’s crispy on the edges.
- 4 teaspoons bacon jam: Adds a rich, smoky-sweet element that perfectly complements the savory chicken.
- 16 fully cooked breaded, boneless Chicken Wings (frozen): Convenient and crispy, these bring heartiness and satisfying crunch to every bite.
- ¼ cup maple syrup: The sweet, sticky drizzle that elevates the flavors and warms up the whole dish.
How to Make Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Waffle Batter
Start by mixing the pancake and waffle mix according to the package directions, making sure to follow the waffle instructions exactly. This ensures your mini waffles have that perfect balance of fluffiness and crispness—crucial for holding up as slider buns!
Step 2: Cook the Mini Waffles
Heat your waffle bite maker and cook the batter into small, golden mini waffles. You’ll want about 32 of these little circles to assemble 16 sliders. Don’t rush this step; a perfectly cooked waffle has a delightful crunch on the outside while staying tender inside.
Step 3: Spread the Bacon Jam
Once the waffles are ready, place them on a large serving plate. Then, spread about ¼ teaspoon of smoky bacon jam on 16 of these mini waffles. This layer amps up the flavor and adds a sticky, savory-sweet element that is nothing short of addictive.
Step 4: Heat the Chicken Wings
While your waffles cool slightly, heat your breaded chicken wings. I love using the air fryer method because it crisps up the breading nicely without drying the chicken, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Just make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
Place one hot chicken wing on top of the jam-spread mini waffle, then crown it with another plain waffle. Secure each slider with a cocktail pick to keep everything perfectly in place.
Step 6: Drizzle with Maple Syrup
The final touch before serving is a generous drizzle of maple syrup over all your sliders. Make sure to let some syrup seep into the waffle’s nooks and crannies for that sweet finish that ties all the flavors together.
How to Serve Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, sprinkle some chopped fresh chives or thinly sliced green onions on top. They add a subtle freshness that balances the richness. A pinch of powdered sugar on the waffles can also make the presentation pop and enhance the sweetness.
Side Dishes
These sliders are hearty but pair wonderfully with crisp sides like a tangy coleslaw, some crunchy pickles, or even sweet potato fries. If you’re feeling indulgent, a small bowl of spicy aioli or honey mustard for dipping complements the sliders beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is half the fun! Arrange the sliders on a rustic wooden board or a tiered tray for a party vibe. You can also thread a few sliders on a long skewer for an eye-catching platter. For a brunch setting, serve alongside fresh fruit slices to add color and freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place your assembled sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep the syrup separate if possible, so the waffles don’t get soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked mini waffles and chicken wings separately. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place in freezer bags. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat and assemble fresh to keep the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the chicken wings in the air fryer or oven to regain their crispiness. Warm the waffles in a toaster or oven for a few minutes. Then assemble and drizzle with fresh maple syrup to maintain maximum flavor and crunch.
FAQs
Can I use homemade waffle batter instead of mix?
Absolutely! Homemade batter works wonderfully and lets you control sweetness and texture. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold shape in your mini waffle maker.
What if I don’t have bacon jam?
You can substitute with regular bacon bits mixed with a bit of brown sugar or a smoky barbecue sauce—both will give you that savory-sweet punch.
Can I use regular chicken tenders instead of wings?
Yes, boneless breaded chicken tenders work great for this recipe and are a little easier to eat for some. Just cut them into slider-sized pieces before assembling.
What’s the best way to keep the waffles from getting soggy?
Allow the waffles to cool completely and spread bacon jam only right before assembling to avoid sogginess. Also, add the maple syrup just before serving.
Are these sliders suitable for a party or just a snack?
They are perfect for both! Their small size makes them ideal party finger food, but they’re filling enough for a fun casual meal or snack anytime.
Final Thoughts
Ready to wow your friends and family? This Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe combines simple ingredients to create an unforgettable dish bursting with flavor and texture. Whether for brunch, game day, or a cozy night in, these sliders promise to bring smiles and full plates. Go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy every delicious bite together!
Print
Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these crispy Chicken and Waffle Sliders, a perfect bite-sized treat combining savory breaded chicken wings, sweet maple syrup, and a hint of smoky bacon jam sandwiched between golden mini waffles. Ideal for parties or a fun appetizer, these sliders are quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Batter and Waffles
- 2 cups pancake and waffle mix
Toppings and Fillings
- 4 teaspoons bacon jam
- ¼ cup maple syrup
Protein
- 16 fully cooked breaded, boneless chicken wings (frozen)
Instructions
- Prepare the waffle batter: Follow the instructions on the pancake and waffle mix package precisely, ensuring you prepare the batter suitable for waffles.
- Cook mini waffles: Heat your waffle bite maker, then cook the batter in batches to make about 32 mini waffles until they turn golden brown and crisp.
- Separate and arrange waffles: Carefully remove the cooked waffles and separate them into individual small circles, placing them evenly on a large serving plate.
- Spread bacon jam: Evenly spread about ¼ teaspoon of bacon jam on 16 of the mini waffles to add a smoky, sweet layer.
- Heat the chicken wings: Using your preferred heating method—air frying is recommended at 4-5 minutes per side at 165°F internal temperature—or oven/toaster oven until thoroughly heated.
- Assemble sliders: Place one hot chicken wing over the bacon jam on each mini waffle, then top with another mini waffle without jam to create a sandwich.
- Secure sliders: Insert a cocktail pick or long toothpick through each slider to hold all layers securely together.
- Repeat assembly: Continue assembling the remaining sliders using the same process for all chicken wings and waffles.
- Add maple syrup: Just before serving, drizzle the ¼ cup of maple syrup evenly over all the sliders, making sure some syrup seeps into the waffle holes on top for maximum sweetness.
Notes
- For the best texture, cook the mini waffles fresh and serve immediately after assembly.
- You can substitute chicken wings with other breaded chicken pieces if preferred.
- If you don’t have a waffle bite maker, a standard waffle iron will work; just cut waffles into smaller rounds afterward.
- Monitor the internal temperature of chicken wings to ensure they are heated through to at least 165°F for safety.
- Bacon jam can usually be found in specialty stores or made at home for a smoky, sweet flavor enhancement.
- For added spice, consider serving sliders with a side of hot sauce or drizzle hot honey instead of maple syrup.
