Keto Chicken and Waffles is a deliciously indulgent twist on a classic dish that perfectly marries savory and sweet flavors. This recipe features crispy, juicy chicken paired with fluffy, low-carb waffles, making it an ideal brunch option or a satisfying dinner. Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet or simply looking for a comforting meal that won’t derail your health goals, this dish is sure to impress.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will adore this Keto Chicken and Waffles recipe for its incredible flavor profile and ease of preparation. The chicken is seasoned to perfection, providing a savory complement to the subtly sweet waffles, which are made without traditional flour, keeping them low in carbs. Plus, this recipe fits seamlessly into a keto lifestyle, allowing you to indulge without guilt. The combination of crispy chicken and fluffy waffles creates a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Tips and Tricks
- Use buttermilk: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk before frying enhances its tenderness and flavor. If you’re dairy-free, opt for unsweetened almond milk with a splash of vinegar as a substitute.
- Double-coat the chicken: For an extra crispy exterior, dip the chicken in an egg wash after the first coating of almond flour and then coat it again.
- Make the waffles crispy: Cook the waffles a little longer in your waffle maker for a crispier texture. You can also keep them warm in the oven while you finish cooking the chicken.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. The waffles can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat them in a toaster or oven to restore their fluffiness. For meal preppers, consider freezing the cooked waffles and chicken separately for a quick meal later on.
Recipe Variations
- Flavorful Chicken: Experiment with different seasonings such as smoked paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper for an added kick.
- Cheesy Waffles: Add shredded cheese to the waffle batter for a savory twist.
- Baked Chicken: Instead of frying, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes for a healthier option.
How to Serve
Serve your Keto Chicken and Waffles with a drizzle of sugar-free syrup or a dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. A side of sautéed greens or a simple salad can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a refreshing iced tea or a light, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for a well-rounded meal. For dessert, consider serving a keto-friendly cheesecake or chocolate mousse to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your dietary goals.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The waffles can be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, and toast the waffles to restore their crispiness.
Equipment Needed
- A cast iron skillet or deep fryer for frying the chicken
- A waffle maker for cooking the waffles
- Mixing bowls for batter preparation
- A meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the right temperature (165°F/75°C)
Dietary Adaptations
For a dairy-free version, use almond milk in place of buttermilk and a dairy-free cheese if adding cheese to the waffles. To make this recipe nut-free, substitute almond flour with coconut flour, adjusting the amount as coconut flour is more absorbent.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, consider adding fresh herbs or spices to the chicken marinade, such as basil or cilantro. In the fall, you could incorporate pumpkin spice into the waffle batter to give a seasonal twist.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?: No, using regular flour will increase the carb count significantly, which is not suitable for a keto diet.
- How long does it take to cook the chicken?: Chicken should be cooked for about 8-10 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Can I make the waffles ahead of time?: Yes, you can prepare the waffles in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer.
How To Make Keto Chicken and Waffles recipe
Keto Chicken and Waffles recipe
Keto Chicken and Waffles is a deliciously indulgent twist on a classic dish that perfectly marries savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or almond milk with vinegar)
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
- For the Waffles:
- 2 cups almond flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp erythritol or preferred sweetener
Instructions
- Begin by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, pepper, and spices.
- Submerge the chicken in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
- In another bowl, mix the almond flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for the chicken coating.
- Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet or deep fryer over medium heat.
- Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the almond flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil and cook for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- While the chicken is frying, preheat your waffle maker.
- In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, almond milk, vanilla, and erythritol.
- Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour batter into the preheated waffle maker and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions, until golden and crisp.
- Serve the fried chicken on top of the waffles, drizzled with sugar-free syrup if desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 895Total Fat 68gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 55gCholesterol 308mgSodium 1057mgCarbohydrates 24gFiber 11gSugar 7gProtein 56g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Keto Chicken and Waffles is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to your palate. Whether you’re serving it for brunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a dish that everyone will love, even those who aren’t following a keto diet. Enjoy the process, savor every bite, and relish in the comfort of this extraordinary dish!