If you’re craving a fun, finger-friendly twist on a classic comfort food, then this Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe is your new best friend. Combining crispy, savory chicken wings with golden mini waffles, a hint of smoky bacon jam, and the sweet drizzle of maple syrup, these sliders are a party on your palate. Perfectly sized for sharing, they boast an irresistible mix of textures and flavors that can turn any gathering into a celebration. Whether you’re a brunch enthusiast or just someone who loves soul-soothing food with a playful edge, this recipe is a total winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe is super simple, and each ingredient plays a special role in bringing this dish to life. From the fluffy waffles to the savory chicken and sweet-savory toppings, these essentials come together beautifully to create an unforgettable bite.
- 2 cups pancake and waffle mix: The foundation for light, fluffy mini waffles with just the right golden crispness.
- 4 teaspoons bacon jam: Adds a smoky, sweet, and tangy punch that perfectly complements the chicken.
- 16 fully cooked breaded, boneless Chicken Wings (frozen): The crispy star of the sliders, offering savory juiciness in every bite.
- ¼ cup maple syrup: A luscious drizzle that balances the savoriness with natural sweetness.
How to Make Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Waffle Batter
Start by following the instructions on your pancake and waffle mix package to make the batter. Be sure to use the directions specified for waffles, so your batter hits the perfect consistency. This step sets the stage for waffles that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, essential for a slider that holds up well with the juicy chicken.
Step 2: Cook Mini Waffles
Heat up your waffle bite maker and cook mini waffles until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. You’ll want about 32 of these small waffles to build your sliders—each one acting as a perfect little bun to sandwich all those incredible flavors.
Step 3: Prep the Waffles for Assembly
Once cooked, carefully remove the waffles from the maker and separate them into individual small circles. Lay them out on a large serving platter, which will give you the space you need to assemble and serve these beauties effortlessly.
Step 4: Add the Bacon Jam
Spread a thin layer of bacon jam, about ¼ teaspoon, onto 16 of your mini waffles. This smoky and sweet spread is a game-changer, infusing each slider with a depth of flavor that makes every bite exciting and rich.
Step 5: Heat the Chicken Wings
Heat your breaded chicken wings according to the package instructions. I highly recommend using an air fryer for this step—it crisps up the chicken wings beautifully in about 4-5 minutes on each side, ensuring they reach a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Of course, you can use an oven or skillet if you prefer, just aim for crispy, hot, and juicy chicken every time.
Step 6: Assemble the Sliders
Place one heated chicken wing atop each mini waffle with bacon jam, then top it with another mini waffle without jam. This sandwiching creates the perfect handheld slider, balancing the textures and flavors in every mouthful.
Step 7: Secure the Sliders
Use a cocktail pick or a long toothpick to carefully pierce through each slider, holding the layers together tightly. This little trick makes serving and eating much easier and keeps everything neat and tidy.
Step 8: Finish with Maple Syrup
Just before serving, drizzle the ¼ cup of maple syrup evenly over all your sliders. Make sure to let some syrup seep into the waffle holes on top—that touch of sweetness mingles beautifully with the bacon jam and crispy chicken, taking every bite to the next level.
How to Serve Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley add a bright pop of color and a hint of freshness to balance the richness. If you like a little heat, sprinkle on some crushed red pepper flakes or serve with a side of spicy aioli to dip.
Side Dishes
Pair your sliders with crisp, refreshing coleslaw or a simple green salad for contrast. For those who love indulgence, sweet potato fries or seasoned curly fries make an irresistible combo that keeps the comfort food vibe strong and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party platter, arrange the Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of syrup, extra bacon jam, and hot sauce for dipping. You can also serve them stacked in mini baskets lined with parchment paper for a charming, casual presentation that invites people to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sliders store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the syrup separate to avoid the waffles from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat the chicken and waffles quickly, then assemble if you had disassembled them.
Freezing
If you want to freeze these sliders, it’s best to freeze the mini waffles and chicken wings separately, each in airtight containers or freezer bags. Bacon jam and syrup don’t freeze well, so add them fresh before serving. This method keeps textures intact and flavors fresh.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken wings in an air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness, and toast the waffles briefly in a toaster or oven to revive their golden crunch. Assemble your sliders last minute and drizzle with fresh maple syrup for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use regular chicken tenders instead of wings for the sliders?
Absolutely! Chicken tenders work perfectly and are easier to eat in slider form. Just make sure to cook them until they’re crispy and heated through before assembling your sliders.
Is bacon jam necessary, or can I substitute it?
Bacon jam adds a unique smoky-sweet flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with a mix of caramelized onions and crispy bacon bits for similar taste and texture.
Can I make the waffles from scratch instead of using a mix?
Definitely! Homemade waffle batter can add a personal touch and flavor. Just ensure your batter isn’t too thin so that the mini waffles hold together nicely for the sliders.
What if I don’t have a waffle bite maker?
If you don’t have a mini waffle maker, you can use a regular waffle iron and cut the waffles into small circles with a cookie cutter or glass. It’ll take a bit more work but the delicious results are worth it.
How sweet should I make the maple syrup drizzle?
Stick to about ¼ cup of real maple syrup drizzled evenly to keep the balance right—too much can overpower the savory elements, but just enough adds that perfect finishing touch everyone loves.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Waffle Sliders Recipe is a delightful crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. The combination of crispy chicken, fluffy waffles, smoky bacon jam, and sweet syrup creates a harmony of flavors that’s downright addictive. Whether for a brunch gathering, a game day treat, or just a special weeknight indulgence, these sliders will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be craving these little bites of joy again and again.
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
These Chicken and Waffle Sliders are a delightful bite-sized twist on the classic southern comfort food pairing. Crispy breaded chicken wings sandwiched between mini golden waffles spread with savory bacon jam, then drizzled with sweet maple syrup for the perfect balance of flavors in every slider. Ideal for parties, brunch, or a fun appetizer to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Waffles
- 2 cups pancake and waffle mix
Chicken
- 16 fully cooked breaded, boneless chicken wings (frozen)
Condiments
- 4 teaspoons bacon jam
- ¼ cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare waffle batter: Follow the package directions for the pancake and waffle mix, making sure to use the instructions specific for making waffles to ensure the batter consistency is correct.
- Cook mini waffles: Heat the waffle bite maker and cook the mini waffles until they turn golden brown. You will need approximately 32 mini waffles in total, which will serve as the ‘buns’ for your sliders.
- Arrange waffles: Remove the waffles from the maker and separate them into individual small circles, then place them on a large serving plate for assembly.
- Spread bacon jam: Evenly spread about ¼ teaspoon of bacon jam over 16 of the mini waffles. This adds a savory contrast to the sweet waffles.
- Heat chicken wings: Warm the fully cooked breaded chicken wings. The preferred method is using an air fryer, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side until heated through and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Alternatively, use your preferred heating method as per the package instructions.
- Assemble sliders: Place one heated chicken wing on top of each bacon jam-covered mini waffle. Then top with a second mini waffle (one without bacon jam) to complete the slider.
- Secure sliders: Insert a cocktail pick or long toothpick through the center of each slider to hold the layers together neatly.
- Repeat assembly: Continue assembling until all chicken wings and waffles are used up, making 16 sliders.
- Serve with maple syrup: Just before serving, drizzle the ¼ cup of maple syrup evenly over all the sliders, making sure to let some syrup fill the waffle holes on top for added sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken wings with chicken tenders or nuggets if preferred.
- If you don’t have a waffle bite maker, a regular waffle iron can be used and then cut waffles into smaller rounds with a cookie cutter.
- Bacon jam can be homemade or store-bought—adds a delicious sweet and savory element.
- Ensure chicken is properly reheated to 165°F for food safety.
- Maple syrup pairs perfectly by balancing savory bacon jam and crispy chicken flavors.
