The Secret’s Out: 23 Amazing Toppings for Chicken and Waffles

Chicken and waffles is a classic Southern comfort food pairing that has taken the culinary world by storm. Crispy, juicy fried chicken served alongside sweet, fluffy waffles is simply heavenly. But don’t stop there – the possibilities for toppings and add-ons are endless! From savory to sweet and simple to over-the-top, it’s time to take your chicken and waffles to the next level.

Savory Toppings

The Southern Classics

No chicken and waffles plate is complete without a drizzle of maple syrup or honey. The sweetness balances perfectly with the saltiness of the fried chicken. For an extra savory kick, add a pat of butter. Its richness complements both the chicken and the waffles flawlessly.

Of course, no Southern meal is complete without gravy. Chicken gravy, sausage gravy, or even turkey gravy pairs wonderfully with chicken and waffles. The gravy soaks into the nooks and crannies of the waffle, taking each bite to new heights of comfort food glory.

For those who like things spicy, break out the hot sauce. Louisiana-style hot sauces like Tabasco or Crystal add a tingle of heat and vinegar tang to your chicken and waffles. Start with a few dashes and work your way up to your desired spiciness.

International Flair

Chicken and waffles also plays nicely with flavors from around the globe. For a taste of Asia, try a drizzle of teriyaki sauce or sweet chili sauce on your plate Both add a sweet yet umami glaze that enhances the chicken and waffles.

To give your meal a Mexican twist serve it with guacamole pico de gallo, cotija cheese and a dollop of sour cream. A squeeze of lime brightens up all the flavors. Ole!

For an Italian spin, sprinkle on some Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. A grinding of black pepper and red pepper flakes kicks it up a notch. Mangia!

Fresh Herbs and Veggies

Chicken and waffles is the perfect canvas for fresh herbs and vegetables. Get creative with your garnishes!

• Chives – These mild onion-flavored herbs add a pop of green.
• Parsley – Flat or curly, parsley’s freshness perks up any plate.
• Cilantro – The citrusy, aromatic flavor of cilantro pairs perfectly with chicken.
• Scallions – Thinly sliced scallions lend a subtle oniony crunch.
• Tomatoes – Cherry or grape tomatoes cut in half make a sweet, juicy topping.
• Avocado – Buttery avocado slices or mashed avocado take things to the next level.
• Spinach – Fresh baby spinach leaves add color and a health boost.

Sauces and Spreads

Drizzles, dips, and dollops of savory sauces and spreads make chicken and waffles sing:

• Ranch dressing – A classic pairing with chicken, cooling and creamy.
• BBQ sauce – Sweet, tangy, and finger-lickin’ good.
• Honey mustard – A winning blend of savory and sweet.
• Aioli – Garlicky mayo with Mediterranean flair.
• Chimichurri – A fresh Argentinian green sauce.
• Pesto – Basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan – magical together.
• Tzatziki – Cool cucumber yogurt sauce. Opaa!

Cheesy Goodness

The crowning glory of any chicken and waffles plate is melted cheese. Say cheese!

• Cheddar – Sharp or mild, melty cheddar is always a good call.
• Pepper jack – Spicy and gooey, it packs some heat.
• Blue cheese – Pungent, creamy blue cheese crumbles.
• Goat cheese – Tart, tangy, soft goat cheese.
• Gruyère – Nutty, rich Swiss cheese. Fondue, anyone?

Sprinkle the cheese right on top of the chicken and let it melt deliciously.

Sweet Toppings

While chicken and waffles is savory at its core, the sweet side should never be neglected.

Fruits

Fruits add a juicy freshness and natural sweetness:

• Strawberries – Sliced berries on top are a summery treat.
• Bananas – Caramelized or sliced banana chips work perfectly.
• Apples – Sautéed apples with cinnamon.
• Oranges – Add segments or orange juice and zest.
• Grapes – Red or green grapes for pops of juicy sweetness.

Dessert Sauces

For those with a serious sweet tooth, break out the ice cream toppings!

• Whipped cream – Mounded high or just a dollop.
• Caramel sauce – Buttery, gooey caramel is hard to resist.
• Chocolate syrup – A drizzle of chocolate completes the dish.
• Dulce de leche – Thick caramel pudding – sweet bliss!
• Nutella – Chocolate-hazelnut spread, need I say more?

Crunchy Toppers

For fun textures, add some crunchy candy or doughnut toppers:

• Powdered sugar – A light dusting of powdered sugar looks like snow.
• Sprinkles – Rainbow or chocolate sprinkles make it festive.
• Crushed candy bars – Top with pieces of Snickers, Twix or Reese’s.
• Doughnut holes – Skewer doughnut holes for a sweet treat.
• Granola – Toasted oats, nuts and honey crunch things up.

Boozy Options

For the 21+ crowd, consider spiking your chicken and waffles:

• Bourbon maple syrup – Maple syrup kicked up with bourbon.
• Whiskey caramel sauce – Sweet caramel swimming with whiskey.
• Irish cream drizzle – Bailey’s Irish cream pours like a dream.
• Rum bananas – Sautee bananas with a splash of rum. Perfection!

Creative Combos

Some winning flavor combinations to try:

• Peanut butter drizzle with sliced banana
• Lemon curd with blueberries
• Ice cream with hot fudge
• Brown sugar pecan crumble
• Candied bacon crumbles and maple syrup

The possibilities are endless when it comes to toppings for chicken and waffles! Don’t be afraid to get adventurous with sweet and savory flavors to create your own signature chicken and waffles masterpiece. Just make sure to have extra napkins on hand – this dish can get deliciously messy!

Yes, it is common and often expected to put syrup on chicken and waffles. It’s a popular way to enjoy the sweet and savory combination.

Chicken and waffles are typically served with the fried chicken placed on top of or alongside the waffles. A sweet topping, usually maple syrup or honey, is drizzled over both the chicken and waffles, or served on the side for dipping.