3-Ingredient Chicken and Waffle Bites Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (10.6 ounce) jug of shake-and-pour pancake mix (e.g., Bisquick Shake N Pour)
• 1 1/2 pounds frozen fully cooked lightly breaded chicken tenders (e.g., Just Bare)
• Cooking spray, as needed
• 3/4 cup maple syrup, or more for dipping

Note: Recipe yields 6 servings. Ingredient amounts adjust automatically, but cooking times remain the same.

Directions

1. Cook the chicken tenders according to the package instructions until heated through.
2. Prepare the pancake mix as instructed on the package. Pour the batter into a bowl for easy dipping.
3. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly coat with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4. Dip 1-4 chicken tenders at a time halfway into the pancake batter, depending on the size of your waffle iron.
5. Place the battered tenders onto the preheated waffle iron. Cook until golden brown and crisp.
6. Transfer cooked tenders to a plate and repeat with remaining chicken.
7. Serve immediately, accompanied by maple syrup for dipping.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 433
• Total Fat: 15g (19% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 4g (21% DV)
• Cholesterol: 55mg (18% DV)
• Sodium: 568mg (25% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 59g (21% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% DV)
• Total Sugars: 27g
• Protein: 18g (36% DV)
• Vitamin C: 0mg (0% DV)
• Calcium: 101mg (8% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (7% DV)
• Potassium: 346mg (7% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Nutrient values may vary. Consult a doctor or dietitian for medically restrictive diets.

The Story Behind Chicken and Waffle Bites

Chicken and waffles have a rich culinary history that blends influences from both African American and Pennsylvania Dutch traditions. While the original pairing of fried chicken with a soft, buttery waffle may seem like a modern indulgence, it dates back to the 1600s in Europe, where waffles were commonly served with meats. In the United States, this combination became particularly popular in the southern states during the 1930s and 1940s, when African American chefs in Harlem introduced the dish in jazz clubs as a hearty late-night meal. The bite-sized version, such as these 3-ingredient Chicken and Waffle Bites, is a contemporary twist that makes the classic dish convenient for snacking and casual gatherings.

Regional Variations and Flavors

Different regions of the U.S. have adapted chicken and waffles to their local tastes. In the South, the chicken is often heavily seasoned or coated in a buttermilk batter, and waffles might include cornmeal for added texture. In contrast, Northern variations tend to favor thinner, sweeter waffles with lightly seasoned chicken. Some modern interpretations even incorporate spices like cayenne or smoked paprika to add a touch of heat. These Chicken and Waffle Bites condense the Southern tradition into a fun, easy-to-prepare version suitable for home cooks, maintaining the sweet-and-savory flavor contrast that defines the dish.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Unlike chicken tenders or traditional waffles served separately, Chicken and Waffle Bites combine both elements into a single handheld treat. This differs from chicken and pancake combos, which generally serve the components side by side, and from Belgian waffle sandwiches with fried meats, which often use larger portions and heavier batters. By dipping lightly breaded chicken tenders into pancake batter and cooking them in a waffle iron, these bites create a crisp exterior with a soft interior that perfectly balances sweetness and savory flavors in every bite.

Where You'll Find It

While the traditional full-plate version of chicken and waffles is a brunch staple in soul food restaurants and southern diners, these bite-sized versions are perfect for casual events. They are commonly served at parties, sports gatherings, and food festivals, often accompanied by small cups of syrup or honey for dipping. Their portable, snackable nature has made them popular in modern cafs and fast-casual eateries that aim to reinterpret classic comfort foods in a fun, shareable format.

Fun Facts

• The combination of fried chicken and waffles was so popular in Harlem that it earned the nickname Harlem Breakfast during the 1930s jazz era.
• Maple syrup, which is traditionally paired with waffles, actually contrasts the savory fried chicken in a way that heightens both flavors, creating a unique taste sensation.
• Chicken and Waffle Bites have gained social media fame due to their simplicity and visual appeal, often appearing on TikTok and Instagram as a trendy finger food.
• These bites allow for endless customization: you can drizzle hot honey, sprinkle cayenne, or even serve them with flavored syrups to create signature variations.
• The use of frozen chicken tenders and pancake mix makes this recipe accessible for busy home cooks while preserving the essence of the traditional dish.

FAQ about 3-Ingredient Chicken and Waffle Bites Recipe