Chicken And Waffles Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food pairing that has captured hearts and taste buds alike. This dish brings together the savory goodness of crispy chicken and the sweet, fluffy delight of waffles into one convenient, hearty casserole. A culinary favorite especially in Southern cuisine, Chicken And Waffles Casserole embodies the essence of comfort while offering a fun and innovative way to enjoy two beloved dishes in a single bite. It’s no wonder that families and food lovers rave about this dish; it’s the perfect solution for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner!
What Is Chicken And Waffles Casserole
Chicken And Waffles Casserole is a baked dish that layers tender, seasoned chicken with fluffy waffles, all enveloped in a rich, custardy egg mixture. The result is a delightful casserole that has a unique combination of textures—crispy on the top, soft and gooey underneath, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Unlike traditional chicken and waffles served separately, this casserole merges the two into an easy-to-serve and shareable format, making it perfect for gatherings or family meals. If you love the classic combination but crave a fresher, more innovative approach, then this casserole is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Deliciously Satisfying: The blend of savory chicken and sweet waffles creates a flavor harmony that is irresistible.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this hearty dish, making it perfect for family brunches or dinners.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it the night before and simply bake it in the morning, saving you time and stress.
How Does It Taste?
When you dive into Chicken And Waffles Casserole, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors. The chicken is seasoned to perfection, providing a savory base that beautifully complements the sweet, buttery notes of the waffles. The drizzle of maple syrup over the top adds an extra layer of sweetness that ties everything together. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast of textures—from the crispy, golden-brown topping to the soft, fluffy interior. It’s a flavor explosion that brings warmth and happiness with every forkful!
Health & Ingredient Benefits
Key ingredients in Chicken And Waffles Casserole include chicken, eggs, and whole grain waffles. Chicken is high in protein, making it a great source of energy and muscle support. Eggs are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins D and B12, and they contribute to the comforting, custardy texture of the casserole. Whole grain waffles add fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. By combining these ingredients, you get a dish that is not only delicious but also nourishing!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – This can be rotisserie chicken for a quick option. Chicken adds protein and flavor.
- 4 cups frozen waffles – Frozen waffles are convenient and provide the perfect base for this casserole. Feel free to choose your favorite flavor.
- 2 cups milk – Whole milk gives a rich creaminess to the dish, but you can also use almond or oat milk for dairy-free options.
- 4 large eggs – Eggs bind the casserole together, giving it a nice structure when baked.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Cheddar adds a savory, creamy element that complements the sweetness of the waffles.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – This adds depth to the flavor profile of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – It enhances the overall taste with a subtle sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground black pepper provides a hint of spice.
- ½ cup maple syrup – Maple syrup is a classic pairing with both chicken and waffles, adding sweetness to the dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – This adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished casserole.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – For combining the ingredients efficiently.
- Whisk – To beat the eggs and mix the wet ingredients smoothly.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Perfect for layering the ingredients and baking the casserole.
- Sharp knife – For cutting the waffles and chicken into manageable pieces.
- Oven mitts – To safely handle the hot baking dish.
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Chicken – You can use turkey or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version.
- Waffles – Consider using homemade waffles for a fresher taste or gluten-free waffles if needed.
- Milk – Substitute with coconut milk for a tropical twist or soy milk for a protein boost.
- Cheese – Swap cheddar with pepper jack for a spicy kick or use vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Additions – Incorporate cooked bacon or sausage pieces for extra flavor, or toss in some sautéed veggies for added nutrition.
How to Make Chicken And Waffles Casserole
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Waffles
While the oven is heating up, take your frozen waffles and cut them into quarters. Place them evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. They should cover the base of the dish completely.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined. You want the mixture to be smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Layer the Chicken
Now, sprinkle the shredded chicken evenly over the waffles. Make sure to distribute it well so every bite has some chicken.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Pour the Mixture
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken layer. Then, pour the milk and egg mixture over everything, ensuring it seeps through the waffles and chicken.
Step 6: Drizzle with Maple Syrup
Drizzle the maple syrup over the top of the casserole. This gives it that classic chicken and waffles flavor.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden brown on top.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
What to Serve With
This Chicken and Waffles Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For drinks, consider serving it with a refreshing iced tea or a classic mimosa for brunch vibes.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your chicken is well-seasoned before using it in the casserole for maximum flavor.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to help it set, making it easier to serve.
- If you like a crispy top, broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheese types for varied flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the dish with too much chicken can make it soggy. Stick to the suggested amount.
- Not allowing the casserole to rest after baking can result in a messy serving.
- Using stale or overly soft waffles may lead to a mushy texture—fresh or well-frozen waffles are best.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Leftover Chicken and Waffles Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Reheating
To reheat, you can microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, approximately 20 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning.
- Is this dish suitable for freezing? Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked casserole and bake it directly from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking.
- Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked? Yes, but you’ll need to cook it first before shredding it for the casserole.
- What can I use instead of maple syrup? Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives for sweetness.
Nutritional Info
This Chicken and Waffles Casserole typically serves about 8 portions, with each serving containing approximately 350 calories, 20g of protein, 25g of carbohydrates, and 15g of fat. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly combines comfort and indulgence, then the Chicken And Waffles Casserole is an absolute must-try! This delightful recipe brings together tender chicken and fluffy waffles in a way that’s both creative and satisfying. Imagine the crispy edges of waffles soaking up the savory flavors of seasoned chicken, all topped off with a drizzle of syrup for that signature sweet-and-savory balance. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, a cozy dinner, or a special gathering, the Chicken And Waffles Casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of this dish—each bite is like a warm hug on a plate. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let this casserole bring smiles to your table!
Chicken And Waffles Casserole
A delightful casserole combining crispy chicken nuggets and fluffy waffles, topped with a sweet syrup for a comforting dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 Kodiak Cakes Buttermilk and Vanilla Power Waffles, toasted and chopped
- 15 pieces Tyson Air Fried Crispy Chicken Nuggets (340g)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Fresh cracked pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup lite pancake syrup (120ml)
- 2 Tbsp honey (42g)
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup liquid egg whites (100g)
- 1.5 cups low fat 2% milk (360ml)
- 1/4 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded (28g)
- 1/4 cup Monterey jack cheese, shredded (28g)
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 1 Tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- Optional Toppings: maple syrup, sliced green onions, sliced jalapeños
Instructions
-
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Step 2
Chop toasted waffles and place in a greased baking dish. -
Step 3
Layer chicken nuggets over the chopped waffles. -
Step 4
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, egg whites, milk, salt, and pepper. -
Step 5
Pour the egg mixture over the chicken and waffles. -
Step 6
Sprinkle cheeses, green onion, and chives on top. -
Step 7
Drizzle with pancake syrup and honey. -
Step 8
Bake for 30-35 minutes until set and golden. -
Step 9
Let sit for a few minutes, then serve with optional toppings.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.