If you’re craving a dish that brings together crispy, tender chicken and fluffy waffles topped with rich, creamy gravy, you’re in for a treat with this Oven-Fried Chicken with Waffles and White Gravy Delight Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, combining classic Southern comfort flavors with a lighter, oven-baked twist. Every bite delivers a delightful crunch complemented by the smooth white gravy and the sweetness of golden waffles, making it a perfect weekend brunch or special dinner to impress friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Oven-Fried Chicken with Waffles and White Gravy Delight Recipe comes from a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays an important role in building the flavor profile and texture—crispy chicken coating, tender juicy meat, light waffles, and that perfect creamy gravy.
- 2 pieces Chicken Breast: Freezing before slicing makes it easier to create clean, even halves for even cooking.
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness; substitute Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter option.
- 2 cups Kettle-Cooked Potato Chips: These give a salty, crunchy coating—any hearty salty potato chip works.
- 2 whites Egg White: Whipping these to soft peaks adds volume and lightness to the batter.
- 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar: Balances savory flavors; use a sugar substitute if preferred.
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour: The base for the batter and waffles; gluten-free flours work as replacements.
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder: Provides lift and fluffiness—make sure it’s fresh for best results.
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda: Works with the acidity to create a tender crumb;
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the flavors in both batters and gravy.
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter: Melts into a luscious addition; coconut oil swaps beautifully for dairy-free cooking.
- 1 cup Buttermilk: Brings tang and tenderness—with vinegar and milk as an easy stand-in.
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (for gravy): Creates a rich roux, the base of our smooth white gravy.
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (for gravy): Thickens the gravy to creamy perfection.
- 2 cups Whole Milk: The creamy body of the gravy, giving it that luscious finish.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth to the gravy seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Adjust for taste to bring out the best in the gravy and the entire dish.
- 2 tablespoons Scallions: Bright, fresh garnish that adds a nice pop of color and mild onion flavor.
How to Make Oven-Fried Chicken with Waffles and White Gravy Delight Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breast
Start by placing your chicken breasts in the freezer for about 15 minutes to firm them up. This makes slicing easier and helps you cut perfect halves. Once chilled, slice the breasts in half horizontally for even cooking. This technique ensures the chicken cooks quickly and stays juicy inside without drying out.
Step 2: Mix the Batter and Potato Chip Coating
Whip the egg whites until they reach soft peaks—this little step will make your batter light and airy, helping the coating stick just right. Combine the mayonnaise and buttermilk, then fold in the whipped egg whites gently. Crush the kettle-cooked potato chips into small pieces—these provide the ultimate crispy coating for the chicken. The batter and chips come together to create that irresistible crunch layer you dream about.
Step 3: Coat and Bake the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the batter, then press it firmly into the crushed potato chips so they adhere well. Place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (around 200°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden. No deep frying needed, and you still get all the crunch without the mess!
Step 4: Make the Waffles
While the chicken bakes, prepare the waffle batter. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, melted butter, and buttermilk into a smooth batter. Pour the batter into a warm waffle iron and cook until golden and fluffy. These waffles will be your perfect base to soak up all that gravy and hold the crispy chicken on top.
Step 5: Prepare the White Gravy
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat and whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Slowly add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Simmer until the gravy thickens to your liking, then season with salt and black pepper. This creamy, peppery sauce is absolutely essential to complete the dish and bring all the flavors together harmoniously.
How to Serve Oven-Fried Chicken with Waffles and White Gravy Delight Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh scallions on top adds both a beautiful pop of green and a fresh, mild onion flavor. It lifts the entire dish, giving it a hint of brightness that contrasts perfectly with the richer components. You might also add a light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper for an extra bit of warmth on the plate.
Side Dishes
This dish stands well on its own, but pairing it with simple, fresh sides like a crisp garden salad or sautéed greens balances the richness wonderfully. For a more indulgent touch, try some creamy mac and cheese or roasted sweet potatoes, whose natural sweetness complements the savory gravy and crispy chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your waffles with the oven-fried chicken on top, then generously ladle the white gravy over both. Serve on a large platter for communal sharing, or create individual stacked plates garnished with scallions and a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy punch. Presentation with a sprinkle of chopped herbs or microgreens gives a refined, restaurant-quality look to this hearty comfort meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Oven-Fried Chicken with Waffles and White Gravy Delight Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain crispiness, store the chicken separately from the waffles and gravy and reassemble just before eating.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and waffles individually by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in freezer bags. The white gravy is best made fresh, but you can freeze it in airtight containers for up to 1 month—just be sure to whisk well during reheating to restore its creamy texture.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat the chicken in a 375°F oven on a wire rack so the coating stays crispy. Warm the waffles in a toaster or oven, and gently reheat the white gravy on the stovetop, stirring often. This approach keeps the dish tasting fresh and delicious, just like the first time you made it.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken instead of breast?
Absolutely! Thighs or drumsticks can work well, though you may need to adjust baking times. Thighs tend to stay juicier but can require a slightly longer bake to reach crispiness all over.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the gravy roux. Make sure your potato chips are certified gluten-free as well.
Can I prepare the white gravy vegan?
You can! Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives like almond or oat milk. Use flour or cornstarch to thicken as usual. The flavor will be slightly different but still rich and creamy.
How do I get the coating extra crispy without frying?
Crushing kettle-cooked potato chips gives a great crunchy texture that bakes beautifully. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking tray to allow hot air to circulate and crisp the coating evenly.
What’s the best way to make the waffles light and fluffy?
Using fresh baking powder and baking soda ensures lift, and incorporating buttermilk helps tenderize the batter while adding a slight tang. Cooking them immediately in a hot waffle iron locks in that fluffy texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a plate of Oven-Fried Chicken with Waffles and White Gravy Delight Recipe that hits all the right notes—crispy, creamy, sweet, and savory all at once. Give this recipe a try for your next brunch or comfort meal, and get ready for a new favorite that brings joy to every bite. I promise it will become one of those dishes you can’t wait to share with everyone you love.
Print
Oven-Fried Chicken with Waffles and White Gravy Delight Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Oven-Fried Chicken with Waffles and White Gravy Delight recipe offers a crispy, mouthwatering twist on classic comfort food by baking breaded chicken instead of deep frying for a healthier yet flavorful meal. Served alongside fluffy homemade waffles and smothered in creamy white gravy, this dish combines rich Southern flavors with an approachable cooking method perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 2 pieces Chicken Breast (Freezing prior to slicing helps for cleaner halves)
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Greek yogurt can be substituted for a lighter touch)
- 2 cups Kettle-Cooked Potato Chips (Any salty potato chip can be used if needed)
- 2 Egg Whites (Whipped to soft peaks adds volume and lightness)
- 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar (A sugar substitute can work for those watching their intake)
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (For gluten-free options, replace with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend)
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Freshness is key for effectiveness)
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda (Freshness is key for effectiveness)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Elevates flavor in both batters)
Waffles
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted coconut oil can serve for a dairy-free alternative)
- 1 cup Buttermilk (Regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar is a quick substitute)
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar (can be assumed added to waffle batter for flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder (assumed for waffle rise)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt (assumed for balance in waffle batter)
White Gravy
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (Olive oil offers a lighter substitute)
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (Cornstarch can be a gluten-free option)
- 2 cups Whole Milk (Almond milk can replace it for dairy-free diets)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Essential for seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust based on taste)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Scallions (Optional garnish; chives can be substituted)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Freeze the chicken breasts briefly to make slicing easier, then cut them into halves. In a bowl, mix the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with the whipped egg whites until soft peaks form. Crush the kettle-cooked potato chips finely and spread them on a plate for breading.
- Coat the Chicken: Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt in another bowl. Dip each piece of chicken first in the flour mixture, then coat with the mayonnaise and egg white mixture, and finally press into the crushed potato chips to fully cover.
- Bake the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken pieces on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air circulation and crispiness. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden.
- Make the Waffle Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, buttermilk, and eggs (if eggs are used, assume 1 or 2). Sift the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt into the wet ingredients and stir until just combined without overmixing. Preheat a waffle iron and cook the batter until waffles are golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the White Gravy: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns slightly golden. Gradually pour in the whole milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Simmer and stir until the gravy thickens to desired consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Place a waffle on each plate, top with the oven-fried chicken, and generously ladle white gravy over the chicken. Garnish with chopped scallions or chives for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Freezing the chicken before slicing ensures cleaner, easier cuts.
- Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise lowers fat content for a lighter coating.
- Crushed kettle chips add a unique salty crunch different from breadcrumbs.
- Whipping egg whites before mixing keeps the coating light and airy.
- Buttermilk in waffles helps achieve a tender crumb and slight tang.
- White gravy can be thickened or thinned with milk depending on preference.
- Substitutions like gluten-free flour and dairy-free milk make this recipe adaptable to various dietary needs.
