The Ultimate Guide to Chicken and Waffles: From Origin to Enjoyment

Welcome to a culinary adventure that celebrates the sweet and savory symphony of chicken and waffles—a dish that has danced its way into the hearts of foodies everywhere. This guide will whisk you through the history, the best companions, the making, the eating, and, of course, where to find the ultimate chicken and waffles experience.

Where Did Chicken and Waffles Originate?

Chicken and waffles might seem like a modern marvel of the culinary world, but its roots run deep. This dish enjoys a storied past, originating from two distinct traditions. In the Southern United States, it emerged as a soul food staple, while the Pennsylvania Dutch introduced a version featuring pulled, stewed chicken on top of waffles. Over time, these paths intertwined, giving rise to the beloved combination of crispy fried chicken atop a fluffy, buttery waffle that we adore today.

What Goes with Chicken and Waffles?

The beauty of chicken and waffles lies in its versatility. A drizzle of syrup and a dollop of butter might be all you need, but why stop there? For those who favor the savory side, a side of steamed green beans or can elevate the dish to new heights. Sweet tooths might prefer to add a scoop of fruit compotes or a swirl of whipped cream for a dessert-like finish. The possibilities are as endless as they are delicious.

How to Make Chicken and Waffles

Crafting the perfect chicken and waffles recipe is an art form. It starts with your chicken choice—whether it’s breast, thigh, or drumsticks, the key is in the seasoning and the crunch. A buttermilk soak and a seasoned flour coat promise a crispy exterior. For the waffles, whether you’re a from-scratch chef or a premix enthusiast, you want to aim for a golden, fluffy outcome. A hot waffle iron and a bit of patience will serve you well.

How to Eat Chicken and Waffles

There’s no wrong way to enjoy chicken and waffles, but there are certainly some strategies for maximizing the experience! Syrup lovers face the choice of a generous pour over the top or a side dip. Aim for a forkful that combines the tender chicken, crisp coating, and soft waffle, possibly with a hint of syrup or hot sauce. Each bite is an opportunity to experiment with flavors and textures.

How to Reheat Chicken and Waffles

Bringing back the magic of chicken and waffles is easy and ensures your leftovers are as delicious as the first time. Heat your chicken in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes to keep it crispy, and then toast your waffles to revive their crispiness and warm interior. Avoid the microwave to preserve the perfect texture and flavor. Once reheated, combine them back together, add your favorite syrup or sauce, and enjoy a second round of delight. At Metro Diner, we believe in making every meal memorable, even the reheated ones.

Where Can I Get Chicken and Waffles?

While homemade is always an option, sometimes you just need to satisfy that craving with minimal effort. Local diners often boast their own takes on the classic, but for those seeking the quintessential experience, we have to mention Metro Diner’s own Fried Chicken and Waffle. This isn’t just any ordinary diner fare; it’s a culinary experience that leaves a lasting impression.

A Closer Look at Metro Diner’s Fried Chicken and Waffles

Half a Fried Chicken: Imagine a generous half of a chicken, expertly fried to achieve that irresistible golden-brown crust, while keeping the inside succulently moist and tender. It’s the kind of fried chicken that makes every bite a delightful crunch followed by a melt-in-your-mouth sensation. Not a fan of bone-in chicken? Not a problem! You can always substitute our delicious chicken tenders whenever you order chicken and waffles at Metro Diner.
Belgian Waffle: Sitting alongside the fried chicken is a fluffy, perfectly cooked Belgian waffle. It’s light and airy, with just the right amount of crispness, serving as the ideal base to complement the chicken’s robust flavors.
Powdered Sugar and Strawberry Butter: To elevate this dish even further, it’s topped with a dusting of powdered sugar and a dollop of sweet, strawberry butter. This unique combination adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements, creating a harmonious blend of flavors in every forkful.
Signature Sweet and Spicy Sauce: And let’s not forget the sauce – Metro Diner’s signature sweet and spicy sauce. This sauce is the secret weapon, adding an extra layer of complexity with its sweet heat, tying the entire dish together in a symphony of taste sensations.

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to Metro Diner’s commitment to creating unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and savory combinations or just looking for a new twist on classic diner food, our Fried Chicken and Waffles are a must-try.

Don’t Miss Chicken and Waffle Day on August 8!

The Metro Diner team loves chicken and waffles so much that we turned it into an official holiday! We like to celebrate by highlighting some important numbers associated with our signature dish:

32: The number of holes on a Metro Diner Belgian waffle.
48: Hours it traditionally takes to brine and marinate fried chicken.
20: The number of strawberries used in our homemade strawberry butter.

Don’t forget to visit your nearest Metro Diner location this August 8 to take part in our National Fried Chicken and Waffle Day events and specials!

Get the Best Chicken and Waffle in Town at your local Metro Diner

Chicken and waffles is a dish that invites experimentation and indulgence. Whether you’re diving into its rich history, pairing it with your favorite sides, mastering the art of making it, savoring each mouthwatering bite, or seeking out the best local spots to enjoy it, there’s no denying the joy this classic brings to the table.

For those eager to embark on this tasty journey, remember that Metro Diner is just around the corner, ready to serve up a plate of this iconic dish. So, why not find a Metro Diner location near you or check out our menu online? Here, we celebrate the love of food, and chicken and waffles is a dish that truly embodies that spirit.