The Art of Ultimate Chicken & Waffle Casserole Brunch Perfection

Perfect Chicken Frying Mastery

Master the technique of achieving crispy, golden fried chicken with tender interior.

Waffle Preparation Excellence

Learn the skill of preparing waffle cubes that maintain texture during baking process.

Custard Creation Perfection

Perfect the method of creating smooth custard base that binds without overwhelming.

Layering Assembly Technique

Master the art of building layers for optimal flavor distribution and texture.

Baking Strategy

Learn optimal timing and temperature for set custard and golden crispy top.

Chicken & Waffle Casserole Mastery Secrets for Perfect Brunch Comfort Food

Chicken Prep: Marinating chicken in buttermilk ensures tender, flavorful results.

Waffle Choice: Use thick, sturdy waffles that won't break down during baking.

Oil Temperature: Maintain proper frying temperature for crispy chicken without greasiness.

Custard Balance: Don't oversoak - custard should bind ingredients without making soggy.

Make Ahead: Assemble casserole night before, refrigerate, then bake in morning.

Serving Style: Cut into squares and serve with fork and knife for best experience.

Ultimate Chicken & Waffle Casserole with Crispy Fried Chicken and Maple Syrup Drizzle

Name: Ultimate Chicken & Waffle Casserole with Crispy Fried Chicken and Maple Syrup Drizzle
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
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; 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; For the Flavor Enhancers:; 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:

The ultimate breakfast comfort food casserole featuring tender buttermilk fried chicken pieces layered over fluffy waffle bread cubes, all bound together with a rich custard base infused with maple syrup and warm spices. This show-stopping brunch dish combines the beloved flavors of chicken and waffles into an easy-to-serve casserole format that's perfect for feeding a crowd. With crispy chicken, soft waffle texture, sweet maple notes, and a golden cheese topping, this indulgent creation transforms the classic Southern comfort food combination into an unforgettable casserole experience that's ideal for special occasions, holiday brunches, or any time you want to impress with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Prep Time

30 Minutes

Cook Time

45 Minutes

Total Time

75 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

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

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

For the Flavor Enhancers:

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

For Special Equipment:

9x13 inch casserole dish

Large skillet for frying

Mixing bowls

Whisk

Tongs

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish.

Toast frozen waffles until golden, then cut into 1-inch cubes.

Toss waffle cubes with melted butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon.

Marinate chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.

Combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne.

Remove chicken from buttermilk and dredge in seasoned flour mixture.

Heat oil in large skillet and fry chicken pieces until golden and cooked through.

Transfer fried chicken to paper towels to drain excess oil.

In large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, and maple syrup.

Add brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to custard mixture.

Layer half the waffle cubes in prepared casserole dish.

Distribute fried chicken pieces evenly over waffle layer.

Sprinkle half the cheese mixture over chicken and waffles.

Top with remaining waffle cubes and pour custard mixture over everything.

Gently press down to ensure custard soaks into waffle pieces.

Top with remaining cheese, distributing evenly across surface.

Combine panko, melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for topping.

Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over cheese layer.

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove foil and bake additional 15 minutes until golden and set.

Meanwhile, prepare maple drizzle by heating syrup, butter, and bourbon.

Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Drizzle warm maple sauce over casserole before serving.

Garnish with fresh green onions, chives, and thyme.

Serve warm with additional maple syrup on the side.

Ultimate Chicken & Waffle Casserole with Crispy Fried Chicken and Maple Syrup Drizzle

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Ultimate Chicken & Waffle Casserole Brunch Perfection

Ultimate Chicken & Waffle Casserole with Crispy Fried Chicken and Maple Syrup Drizzle

Ingredients

Instructions