Sinking my teeth into that crisp, golden waffle, the burst of cheddar and chives was an absolute delight. The sweet and spicy hot honey chicken on top took it to a whole new level of flavor. Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken – it’s a dish that’s quickly become a new favorite in my household.
I can still remember the first time I made this recipe. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was craving something comforting yet a little bit special. As I stood in the kitchen, whipping up the waffle batter and preparing the chicken, the aromas started to fill the air, and my mouth was watering in anticipation. When I finally sat down to take that first bite, it was like pure heaven. The crispy, cheesy waffles paired with the sticky, spicy-sweet chicken – it was a flavor explosion that left me wondering why I hadn’t tried this sooner.
Since that day, Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken has become a regular in my meal rotation. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for a cozy weekend brunch, but it’s also easy enough to whip up for a quick weeknight dinner. And let me tell you, it never fails to impress, whether I’m serving it to my family or hosting friends.
Why This Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken
The secret to these Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken is all in the details. The waffles are made with a blend of all-purpose flour and cornmeal, which gives them a lovely texture and a touch of sweetness. The cheddar cheese and fresh chives are the perfect savory counterparts, and the batter comes together in a snap. As for the chicken, the key is in the hot honey glaze – a delightful mix of honey, hot sauce, and a few other spices that creates a sticky, flavorful coating.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- All-purpose flour: The foundation for the waffles, providing structure and stability.
- Cornmeal: Adding a subtle sweetness and crunchy texture to the waffles.
- Cheddar cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Fresh chives: Bringing a fresh, oniony note to balance the richness of the waffles.
- Buttermilk: Lending a tangy richness and helping to create a light, fluffy waffle.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The perfect cut for this dish, staying juicy and tender.
- Honey: The star of the hot honey glaze, providing sweetness and a glossy sheen.
- Hot sauce: Giving the glaze a kick of heat to balance the sweetness.
Step-by-Step Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken Instructions
Preparing Your Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken
Ready to dive into this delectable dish? It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the total time from start to finish is about an hour. You’ll need a waffle iron, a baking sheet, and a few other basic kitchen tools. Let’s get started!
1- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and a pinch of black pepper.
2- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the buttermilk and melted butter until well combined.
3- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the shredded cheddar and chopped chives.
4- Preheat your waffle iron and coat it with a light spray of nonstick cooking oil. Scoop the batter onto the hot iron and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 5 minutes per waffle.
5- While the waffles are cooking, prepare the hot honey chicken. In a small saucepan, whisk together the honey, hot sauce, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
6- Once the waffles are ready, top them with the hot honey chicken and serve immediately, garnished with extra chives if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
When it comes to Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken, a few key tips can make all the difference. First, be sure not to overmix the batter – this can result in tough, dense waffles. Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment with the heat level of the hot honey glaze. Start with a milder hot sauce and gradually increase the amount to suit your personal preferences.
Serving and Storing Your Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken
Perfect Pairings for Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken
Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken is a dish that’s truly versatile. For a classic brunch, serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad and a mimosa or bloody mary. If you’re enjoying it for dinner, a simple side salad or roasted vegetables would make an excellent accompaniment. And don’t forget to have some extra hot sauce on hand for those who like an extra kick!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Luckily, Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken is a dish that holds up well. The waffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, and they reheat beautifully in the toaster or oven. The hot honey chicken can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and assemble the dish.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken
Creative Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken Variations
While the classic version of Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken is a true delight, there’s plenty of room for experimentation. Try swapping out the cheddar for a different cheese, like gruyère or gouda. You could also add in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the waffle batter for an extra punch of heat. And if you’re feeling adventurous, consider topping the waffles with a fried egg or a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet-and-savory twist.
Making Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken Diet-Friendly
For those looking to enjoy Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken in a more health-conscious way, there are a few simple substitutions you can make. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour for a gluten-free version. Swap the cheddar for a dairy-free cheese alternative, and opt for a plant-based protein, like grilled tofu or tempeh, instead of the chicken. And for a lower-carb take, you can serve the hot honey “chicken” over a bed of greens or cauliflower rice instead of the waffles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese in the waffles?
A: Absolutely! While the cheddar and chives are a classic combination, you can experiment with other cheeses like gruyère, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses. Just be sure to adjust the amount to your taste.
Q: How can I make the waffles ahead of time?
A: The waffles can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in the toaster or a 350°F oven for a few minutes until crispy.
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may not stay as juicy and tender as the thighs. You may need to adjust the cooking time and keep a closer eye on the chicken to prevent it from drying out.
Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The rest of the ingredients should work just fine.
Q: What should I do if my waffles come out soggy?
A: If your waffles are coming out soggy, there are a few things you can try. Make sure your waffle iron is properly preheated and that you’re not overfilling it. You can also try adding a bit more cornmeal to the batter, which will help absorb moisture and create a crispier texture.
Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4
Description
Indulge in the ultimate sweet and savory combination with these Cheddar Chive Waffles topped with crispy, juicy Hot Honey Chicken. The buttery, fluffy waffles are infused with melty cheddar cheese and fresh chives, creating the perfect base for the sticky, caramelized chicken. This quick and easy meal is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 eggs
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Chives, for garnish
Instructions
1. – Preheat your waffle iron to medium-high heat.
2. – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. – In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then stir in the milk and melted butter.
4. – Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Fold in the cheddar cheese and chives.
5. – Grease the waffle iron and scoop the batter onto the hot surface, cooking for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
6. – In a shallow dish, combine the honey, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat.
7. – Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through and caramelized.
8. – Serve the cheddar chive waffles warm, topped with the hot honey chicken and extra chives.
Notes
– For extra crispiness, separate the egg whites and beat them until stiff before folding into the waffle batter.
– Adjust the heat level of the hot honey chicken by adding more or less hot sauce.
– Leftover waffles can be frozen for easy reheating later.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Main Courses
- Method: Waffle Iron, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Cheddar Chive Waffles with Hot Honey Chicken is a dish that’s sure to become a new household favorite. With its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, it’s a meal that’s both comforting and a little bit special. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, dinner, or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try, and get ready to enjoy every delicious bite!