Mini Churro Asian Fried Chicken-N-Waffles
"This is one of those dishes that just makes people smile. It’s familiar and unexpected at the same time — crispy mini churro waffles with chicken that’s fried light, crisp, and full of flavor. This recipe came from me experimenting with brunch fusion ideas — mixing textures, cultures, and flavors that don’t usually share a plate. The end result was that sweet-spicy harmony that turns a meal into a memory."
Estimated grocery cost: $9–$15 before tax
Estimated grocery costs vary by location, store, brand, and current prices. Estimates are before tax.
Ingredients
- For the Churro Waffles
- For the Asian Fried Chicken
- For the Honey Chili Glaze (optional but recommended)
Directions
- Marinate the chicken in buttermilk, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, ginger, and black pepper for at least 1 hour or overnight for deeper flavor.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Combine and whisk until smooth.
- Preheat your waffle iron, lightly grease it, and pour small portions of batter to make mini waffles. Cook until golden, then immediately toss them in cinnamon sugar while warm so it sticks perfectly.
- In another bowl, combine flour and cornstarch for dredging. Remove chicken from marinade, coat evenly, and shake off excess.
- Heat oil to 350°F and fry chicken in batches for 6–7 minutes per side until golden, crispy, and 165°F inside. Drain on paper towels.
- For the glaze, warm honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili flakes in a small saucepan until blended.
- Plate the churro waffles, top with fried chicken, and drizzle with honey chili glaze. Serve immediately while hot and crisp.
Chef Moe’s Tip
"This dish is about layers — sweet, salty, spicy, and crisp all working together. Don’t drown the glaze; just enough to kiss the chicken. The cinnamon sugar gives that nostalgic carnival bite, and the Asian seasoning brings balance. It’s fun, refined, and exactly what brunch should feel like — creative and full of life."
