Description

Make the Ultimate Chicken & Waffle Casserole for a mouthwatering combination of crispy fried chicken, fluffy waffles, and a rich maple syrup drizzle. This sweet and savory casserole is perfect for family gatherings, brunch, or special occasions. With a cheesy custard base, crispy topping, and make-ahead options, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Waffle Base:

8 frozen waffles, toasted and cubed

4 tablespoons butter, melted

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Fried Chicken:

2 pounds boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 cups buttermilk

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Vegetable oil for frying

For the Custard Base:

8 large eggs

2 cups whole milk

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup maple syrup

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cheese Layer:

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated

For the Maple Drizzle:

1/2 cup pure maple syrup

4 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon bourbon (optional)

Pinch of salt

For the Crispy Topping:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

4 tablespoons butter, melted

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Fresh Garnish:

4 green onions, sliced

2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

Fresh thyme sprigs

For the Assembly:

Butter for greasing casserole dish

Cooking spray

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
Prepare the Waffle Base:
Toast the frozen waffles until golden, then cut them into 1-inch cubes. Toss the waffle cubes with melted butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon.
Prepare the Fried Chicken:
Marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. Dredge in the seasoned flour mixture and fry until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
Prepare the Custard Base:
Whisk together eggs, milk, cream, maple syrup, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Assemble the Casserole:
Layer half of the waffle cubes in the casserole dish. Add the fried chicken, then half of the cheese. Repeat layers and pour custard evenly over everything. Press down gently to soak the waffles.
Make the Crispy Topping:
Mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Sprinkle over the casserole.
Bake the Casserole:
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15 minutes until golden and set.
Prepare the Maple Drizzle:
Heat maple syrup, butter, and bourbon (optional) over low heat until combined. Add a pinch of salt.
Rest and Serve:
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes. Drizzle with maple syrup, then garnish with green onions, chives, and thyme.
Enjoy:
Serve warm with extra maple syrup on the side.

Notes

Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed, adding extra time if needed.

Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free waffles and flour for a gluten-free version.

Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use plant-based dairy alternatives.