Ingredients

The following ingredients have 6 Servings
  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts ((each piece sliced into two strips lengthwise))
  • 3 1/2 tsp seasoned salt (divided)
  • 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper (divided)
  • 3 cups buttermilk (well shaken) (divided)
  • 2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp granulated garlic or garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp hot sauce
  • 1 quart vegetable or peanut oil for frying
  • 1 recipe Belgian waffles OR Buttermilk waffles ((See Cook's note))
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives for garnishing
  • warm maple syrup for serving

Instruction

  • Season chicken pieces on all sides with 1 tsp seasoned salt and ½ tsp black pepper. Place into an oblong baking dish and cover with 2 ½ cups buttermilk. Turn to coat. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight, turning occasionally.
  • 30 minutes before frying: Remove chicken from buttermilk, discard marinade.
  • Set up dredging station: 1) On a plate use a whisk to sift together flour, cornstarch, 2 tsp seasoned salt, 1 tsp black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika and cayenne. 2) In a separate large shallow bowl whisk together eggs, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, ½ cup buttermilk and hot sauce. 
  • Dredge chicken pieces in flour, into egg wash then into flour again, pressing breading onto chicken pieces with your hands. Place onto a baking sheet. Let stand for 20 minutes to bring to room temperature and set breading. 
  • To fry: Preheat oven to 200°F. Prepare a rimmed baking sheet with an oven safe baking rack. Set aside. (To keep chicken warm when frying in batches)
  • Using a deep 6 quart pot heat 1 quart oil to 350°F. Carefully lower chicken pieces in oil. Fry in batches for around 2-3 minutes per side adjusting time depending on thickness. Fry just until golden and juices run clear. Remove with a slotted spoon to the prepared pan. Place into the oven to keep warm.
  • Meanwhile, while chicken is kept warm, prepare Belgian waffles. Divide chicken pieces among waffles.
  • Divide chicken pieces among hot waffles drizzled with warm maple syrup and garnished with fresh chives.