Chicken and Waffles Casserole Recipe

Cook Time: 70 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was designed to serve 8. Quantities can be adjusted, but cooking times remain the same. Note that scaling may affect texture slightly.

• 6 frozen Belgian waffles
• 1 1/2 pounds frozen chicken nuggets, slightly thawed
• 8 large eggs
• 1 1/3 cups half-and-half
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup, plus extra for serving
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Place the waffles on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 4 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and cut each waffle into 8 pieces. Arrange the pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. Slice larger chicken nuggets in half, leaving smaller nuggets whole. Scatter them among the waffles.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, salt, and cayenne pepper until smooth and slightly frothy.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the waffles and chicken. Cover the dish and allow it to sit for 15 minutes so the flavors meld and the waffles soak up the custard.
6. Bake uncovered for about 1 hour, uncovering halfway through, until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown.
7. Let the bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Drizzle with melted butter and additional maple syrup for extra indulgence.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 669
• Total Fat: 43g (55% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 14g (68% DV)
• Cholesterol: 320mg (107% DV)
• Sodium: 1071mg (47% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 40g (15% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (3% DV)
• Total Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 30g (60% DV)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% DV)
• Calcium: 257mg (20% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (19% DV)
• Potassium: 494mg (11% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutritional information may vary depending on ingredient brands. If following a medically restrictive diet, consult your healthcare provider before preparing this recipe.

The Story Behind Chicken and Waffles Casserole

Chicken and waffles is a dish that uniquely blends sweet and savory flavors, with roots tracing back to both African-American and Pennsylvania Dutch culinary traditions. Originally, waffles were a breakfast staple in Europe, brought to America by Dutch settlers. Fried chicken, on the other hand, became popular in the Southern United States, particularly among African-American communities who perfected the technique of frying chicken with a crispy coating. The combination of these two elements likely emerged in the 1930s in Harlem, New York, as a hearty late-night meal that bridged comfort and indulgence.

Regional Variations

While this casserole adapts the traditional recipe into a baked format, classic chicken and waffles differ by region. In the South, the dish is often served with a thick, buttery waffle and crispy fried chicken, drizzled with real maple syrup. In Pennsylvania, the pairing tends to favor softer waffles and a lighter, often tangy syrup. Modern casseroles like this recipe reflect a blend of these traditions, incorporating convenience items such as frozen waffles and chicken nuggets, making it accessible for busy home cooks while retaining the iconic flavor profile.

Differences from Similar Dishes

This casserole distinguishes itself from standard chicken and waffle plates by combining all ingredients in a single baking dish. Unlike the traditional method of serving the components separately, this approach allows the egg custard to soak into the waffles, creating a rich, cohesive texture similar to a breakfast strata. It also differs from a classic chicken bake or waffle strata by emphasizing the sweet-savory contrast of maple syrup and cayenne seasoning alongside tender chicken pieces.

Where Its Typically Served

Chicken and waffles casserole is commonly served at brunch gatherings, family breakfasts, or holiday buffets. Its make-ahead nature makes it ideal for entertaining, as it can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving. Some modern diners and cafes also feature it on brunch menus, appealing to those who enjoy comfort food with a twist. It's particularly popular during festive occasions, as the casserole format allows for easy portioning for larger groups.

Interesting Facts

The dish has become a cultural icon, frequently appearing in pop culture references, from music to television. Interestingly, the combination of fried chicken with a sweet element like syrup or honey is not unique to the United Statessimilar pairings exist in other culinary traditions, such as honey-glazed fried meats in Asia. Additionally, some variations experiment with spice, such as the addition of cayenne pepper or hot sauce, to enhance the complexity of flavors. This casserole also demonstrates the versatility of comfort foods, transforming a beloved plate into a convenient, family-friendly baked dish without losing its signature taste.

FAQ about Chicken and Waffles Casserole Recipe

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