Sage Fried Chicken and Waffles: A Sweet and Savory Brunch Classic

Imagine the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried chicken paired with the buttery sweetness of waffles, drizzled with spicy hot maple syrup. Sage Fried Chicken and Waffles takes this beloved comfort food to the next level with bold flavors, crispy textures, and a touch of heat. Whether you’re treating yourself to an indulgent brunch or wowing your guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Let’s explore how you can make this culinary masterpiece right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Sage Fried Chicken and Waffles

This recipe brings together the best of sweet and savory in a single dish. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Bold Flavors: The sage-rubbed chicken and hot maple syrup add depth and complexity.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
• Customizable: Adjust the heat and sweetness to suit your taste.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Impress your friends and family with this gourmet treat.

Ingredients for Sage Fried Chicken and Waffles

Hot Maple Syrup

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Maple syrup	1 cup	Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
Garlic (thinly sliced)	2 cloves	Adds a subtle savory note.
Serrano peppers (thinly sliced)	3	Leave seeds in for extra heat.
Fresh thyme	3 sprigs	Infuses the syrup with earthy undertones.

Brown Butter Waffles

You can make these from scratch using a favorite recipe or use high-quality frozen waffles for convenience.

Sage-Rubbed Fried Chicken

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs	2 lbs (6–8 thighs)	Thighs stay juicier during frying.
Kosher salt	1 tsp	Season the chicken evenly.
Paprika	1 tbsp	Adds color and smoky flavor.
Rubbed sage	1 tsp	The star seasoning for this dish.
Granulated garlic	2 tsp	Enhances the savory flavor.
White pepper	½ tsp	Adds a mild, earthy heat.
Black pepper	1 tsp	For balance and spice.
Cayenne pepper	¼ tsp	Optional, for extra kick.
Peanut oil	24 oz	Ideal for frying due to its high smoke point.

Fried Chicken Breading

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Buttermilk	2 cups	Tenderizes the chicken.
Hot sauce	½ cup	Texas Pete preferred for its tangy flavor.
Lemon juice	From 1 lemon	Adds acidity to balance the heat.
Eggs (beaten)	2	Helps the breading stick.
Kosher salt	2 tsp	Divided for the breading process.
All-purpose flour	2 cups	Forms the base of the breading.
Cornstarch	2 tbsp	Ensures extra crispy chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Sage Fried Chicken and Waffles

1. Prepare the Hot Maple Syrup

1. Combine the maple syrup, garlic, serrano peppers, and thyme in a small container.
2. Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Before serving, strain out the solids and warm the syrup over low heat in a small saucepan.

2. Make the Brown Butter Waffles

1. Prepare your favorite brown butter waffle recipe or toast high-quality store-bought waffles until golden and crispy.
2. Keep the waffles warm in the oven until ready to serve.

3. Season the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix the kosher salt, paprika, sage, granulated garlic, white pepper, black pepper, and cayenne.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and rub the seasoning mixture evenly over each piece.

4. Prepare the Breading Station

1. In one shallow bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, lemon juice, eggs, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
2. In another bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, and remaining salt.

5. Bread the Chicken

1. Dip each piece of seasoned chicken into the buttermilk mixture, letting the excess drip off.
2. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a good coating.

6. Fry the Chicken

1. Heat the peanut oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F.
2. Fry the chicken in batches, cooking each piece for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
3. Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack to drain any excess oil.

7. Assemble the Dish

1. Place a warm waffle on a plate and top with a piece of fried chicken.
2. Drizzle with the hot maple syrup and garnish with the reserved garlic and pepper slices for an extra pop of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Sage Fried Chicken and Waffles

1. Plan Ahead: Prepare the syrup and waffles in advance to save time.
2. Don’t Skip the Drying: Patting the chicken dry ensures a crispy crust.
3. Use a Thermometer: Monitor the oil temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken.
4. Strain the Syrup: Removing the solids prevents an overpowering garlic or pepper taste.
5. Serve Immediately: Fried chicken is best enjoyed fresh and hot.

Serving Suggestions for Sage Fried Chicken and Waffles

Pair this indulgent dish with simple sides for a complete meal:

• Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing balance to the richness.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw complements the spiciness of the chicken.
• Mimosas or Lemonade: Add a bright, citrusy drink to your brunch spread.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	700–750
Protein	38g
Carbohydrates	50g
Fat	38g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	900–1000mg

FAQs About Sage Fried Chicken and Waffles

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. If using breasts, cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.

2. What if I don’t have peanut oil?

You can use vegetable or canola oil, which also have high smoke points suitable for frying.

3. Is the hot maple syrup very spicy?

The heat level depends on the serrano peppers. For less spice, remove the seeds or use fewer peppers.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store the chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

6. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Why Sage Fried Chicken and Waffles is Worth the Effort

This dish is the perfect marriage of savory, sweet, and spicy. The crispy chicken, fragrant sage, buttery waffles, and bold hot maple syrup create an unforgettable flavor experience. It’s indulgent, comforting, and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to try it.

Conclusion: Try Sage Fried Chicken and Waffles Today

Ready to bring this iconic dish to your table? With a little planning and attention to detail, you’ll master the art of Sage Fried Chicken and Waffles. Treat yourself to a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

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