Chicken and Waffle Breakfast Salad Recipe

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. The original recipe (1X) yields 1 serving.

• 2 cups baby kale (or other salad greens)
• 2 ounces shredded cooked chicken breast (or other protein)
• 1/2 cup roasted chopped sweet potatoes (or other produce)
• 1/2 cup chopped toasted frozen whole-grain waffles (or other crunch)
• 1 to 2 tablespoons honey mustard dressing

Directions

1. Top baby kale (or other salad greens) with shredded chicken (or other protein), roasted sweet potatoes (or other produce), and chopped waffles (or other crunch).
2. Drizzle the salad with honey mustard dressing (or other dressing of your choice).
3. Garnish with freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Variations

• Egg, Corn, and Bell Pepper Salad: torn romaine + poached egg + red bell pepper strips + corn kernels + lightly crushed tortilla chips + lime-jalapeo dressing
• Berries and Granola Salad: baby arugula + cottage cheese + mixed fresh berries + granola clusters + berry vinaigrette

Recipe Tip

Look for store-bought salad dressings that contain less than 2 grams of saturated fat and less than 4 grams of added sugars per serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	564
Total Fat	16g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	74mg
Sodium	831mg
Total Carbohydrate	78g
Dietary Fiber	11g
Total Sugars	15g
Protein	32g
Vitamin C	126mg
Calcium	439mg
Iron	9mg
Potassium	1391mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

Recipe Author: Caitlyn Diimig, RD

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Calories: 564 kcal

Recipe Yield: 1 serving

History and Origins

The origins of the "chicken and waffles" combination can be traced back to the United States, particularly to the African-American community in the 18th century. The dish originally gained popularity in the South, blending savory fried chicken with sweet, fluffy waffles. It was later embraced by the broader American cuisine, particularly in soul food restaurants. Over time, the dish evolved and found its way into various creative forms, including the breakfast salad variation. Today, this fusion of savory and sweet continues to delight taste buds in many different styles.

Regional Variations

While the dish is most commonly associated with Southern cuisine, the combination of chicken and waffles has spread throughout the U.S., with unique regional variations. In some areas, fried chicken might be paired with crispy, buttery waffles, while others might use baked chicken or even alternative proteins like turkey. The "breakfast salad" variation is more recent, and it reflects a growing trend towards healthier, balanced meals, incorporating more vegetables, fruits, and lighter dressings into traditional comfort foods.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional chicken and waffles, which are typically served as a heavy, savory breakfast or brunch item, the chicken and waffle breakfast salad introduces a refreshing, lighter approach. The base of the salad is often a variety of greens, such as baby kale, providing a healthy contrast to the richness of the fried chicken and the sweetness of the waffles. The addition of roasted sweet potatoes and a honey mustard dressing makes this dish not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. The inclusion of salad greens differentiates it from other similar dishes by turning it into a more balanced, nutritious meal, perfect for those seeking a healthier alternative to the original fried version.

Where It Is Typically Served

This dish is commonly found in modern cafes, brunch spots, and restaurants that specialize in fusion dishes. Its popularity has surged in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Atlanta, where diverse culinary influences come together. It is often served as a brunch or light lunch option, perfect for those looking for a meal that blends the comforting flavors of chicken and waffles with the freshness of a salad. It is also a popular choice in restaurants that offer creative takes on classic American dishes.

Interesting Facts

• The combination of chicken and waffles gained mainstream popularity in the 1970s, largely thanks to the influence of soul food restaurants like Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles in Los Angeles.
• In recent years, the breakfast salad trend has grown as part of a broader movement toward healthier, more balanced meals. The chicken and waffle breakfast salad is an innovative way to enjoy the indulgent flavors of the original dish without feeling weighed down.
• This dish is customizable to suit different dietary preferences, as you can easily swap ingredients like the protein (chicken can be replaced with turkey, tofu, or even beans) or the dressing (e.g., vinaigrette, ranch, or balsamic glaze).

Recipe Ingredients

• 2 cups baby kale (or other salad greens)
• 2 ounces shredded cooked chicken breast (or other protein)
• cup roasted chopped sweet potatoes (or other produce)
• cup chopped toasted frozen whole-grain waffles (or other crunch)
• 1 to 2 tablespoons honey mustard dressing (or other salad dressing)

Directions

Top baby kale (or other salad greens) with chicken (or other protein), sweet potatoes (or other produce), and waffles (or other crunch). Drizzle with honey mustard dressing (or other salad dressing). Garnish with black pepper. Variations include:

• Egg, Corn, and Bell Pepper Salad: torn romaine, poached egg, red bell pepper strips, corn kernels, lightly crushed tortilla chips, and lime-jalapeo dressing.
• Berries and Granola Salad: baby arugula, cottage cheese, mixed fresh berries, granola clusters, and berry vinaigrette.

Conclusion

The Chicken and Waffle Breakfast Salad is a modern twist on a beloved American classic. It combines the sweet and savory elements of chicken and waffles with the freshness of a salad, making it a versatile dish that can be customized to suit any palate. Whether youre looking for a healthy brunch option or a light lunch, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you energized for the day ahead.

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