Easy Chicken and Waffles Recipe Air Fryer – A Crispy Treat the Whole Family Will Love

At Yumi Meals, I share recipes inspired by my lifelong love for cooking, rooted in my grandmother’s kitchen and shaped by years of exploring flavors. This chicken and waffles recipe air fryer version blends comfort and simplicity—crispy panko chicken, fluffy mini waffles, and rich maple bourbon syrup—all made healthier and easier using an air fryer. It’s a dish born from a rainy day craving, crafted to bring joy, flavor, and togetherness to your table without the mess of deep frying.

hy Everyone’s Obsessed with Chicken and Waffles in the Air Fryer

The Rise of the Chicken & Waffles Craze

There’s something almost rebellious about mixing crispy fried chicken with fluffy waffles and sweet syrup—and that’s exactly why people love it. Chicken and waffles didn’t start as a trend, but as a statement dish. This combo gained popularity in Harlem in the 1930s, where jazz musicians craved both dinner and breakfast after late-night gigs. It’s sweet and salty, hearty yet playful—a perfect pairing that stuck around.

Since then, chicken and waffles have evolved into a nationwide brunch staple. But here’s the truth: most people think it’s too messy or complex to make at home. That’s where the air fryer changes everything.

Why Use an Air Fryer for This Combo?

Traditionally, you’d need hot oil and a deep fryer to get that crave-worthy crunch. Not anymore. With this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer style, you can achieve the same crispy texture with less oil, less cleanup, and a lot more convenience.

Here’s why air frying makes sense:

• Healthier results: Say goodbye to greasy chicken—air fryers use just a spritz of oil.
• Consistent crispiness: With panko breading and the right timing, you’ll get golden nuggets every time.
• Faster cooking: Preheating takes minutes, and each batch cooks in under 10 minutes.
• Less mess: No oil splatter, no deep-frying odor—just crisp, juicy chicken with minimal cleanup.

When paired with easy mini waffles and that rich maple bourbon drizzle, it’s the ultimate fusion of indulgence and convenience. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or making a cozy dinner, this is a meal that delivers big flavor without a lot of effort.

Easy Chicken and Waffles Recipe Air Fryer – A Crispy Treat the Whole Family Will Love

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• Author: Yumi
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Cuisine: American

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Description

It’s easy to make delicious chicken and waffles recipe air fryer at home – all you need is an air fryer, a waffle maker, and a few simple ingredients!

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Ingredients

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Ingredient

Maple Bourbon Syrup

• 1 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons maple bourbon
• 1 tablespoon butter

The Chicken

• 1 pound raw chicken tenders sliced into 1.5” nuggets
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground red cayenne pepper
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon milk
• 1 to 2 cups panko

The Waffles

• 2 cups Krusteaz buttermilk pancake mix
• 1½ cups cold water
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

The Toppings

• ½ pound bacon fried and chopped into bits
• 1 small bunch scallions sliced

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Instructions

Instructions

 

 

• Prepare the Maple Bourbon Syrup. Add maple syrup, butter, and maple bourbon to a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Once boiling, lower heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Set aside to cool.
• While the Maple Bourbon Syrup is simmering, prepare the chicken. Lightly grease air fryer basket with cooking spray and preheat to 375 degrees. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper). In a separate shallow dish, whisk together egg and milk until well-combined. Fill a third shallow dish with about 1 cup of panko.
• Coat chicken nuggets in the flour mixture, then shake off excess flour and transfer to egg wash. Coat completely in egg wash, let excess egg drip off, and transfer to panko. Coat evenly in panko, shake of excess breadcrumbs and set aside. Repeat until all chicken nuggets are coated.
• Cook chicken nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer for about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through and working in batches if necessary.
• While the chicken is cooking, prepare the waffles. Mix together the pancake mix, cold water, egg, and vegetable oil in a large bowl until combined (batter will be slightly lumpy). Lightly grease and preheat a mini waffle maker, then cook waffles in batches and set aside.
• Once chicken and waffles are done cooking, prepare each dish with three waffles and a handful of chicken nuggets. Top with a drizzle of Maple Bourbon Syrup, bacon bits, and scallions and serve immediately.

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Notes

Maple Bourbon Syrup: This fun twist on a classic maple syrup elevates chicken & waffles to a whole new adult brunching level. It’s the same recipe featured in our Maple Bourbon Burger, since the flavor goes so well with a savory waffle dish!

 

Waffles: This recipe may make a few extra waffles than you end up eating, but leftovers store great in the freezer! (They basically become homemade Eggos that you can easily reheat in the toaster later.)

 

Waffle maker: Mini waffles are so much more fun than regular waffles! We love

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1
• Calories: 953kcal
• Sugar: 50g
• Sodium: 1012mg
• Fat: 43g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 92g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 42g
• Cholesterol: 246mg

Don’t miss our air fryer banana chips recipe for a sweet, healthy snack that’s just as simple and crunchy!

Ingredients Breakdown – What You Need to Nail the Recipe

Essential Ingredients for chicken and waffles recipe air fryer

The secret to an unforgettable chicken and waffles recipe air fryer dish starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to get that perfect combination of crunch, fluff, and flavor.

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound chicken tenders, cut into 1.5” nuggets – These cook evenly and stay juicy in the air fryer.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Helps bind the seasoning to the chicken.
• ¾ tsp garlic powder, ¾ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp cayenne pepper – Classic flavor base with a little kick.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Season generously for best flavor.
• 1 egg + 1 tsp milk – A quick egg wash to hold the coating.
• 1 to 2 cups panko breadcrumbs – For that signature air fryer crunch.

For the Waffles:

• 2 cups Krusteaz buttermilk pancake mix – Shortcut to fluffy waffles with great flavor.
• 1½ cups cold water
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Maple Bourbon Syrup:

• 1 cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp maple bourbon – Adds depth and warmth.
• 1 tbsp butter – For richness.

Flavor Boosters: Spices, Syrup, and Toppings

Flavor isn’t just about the base—it’s about the finish. Here are the toppings and extras that elevate this recipe:

• ½ pound bacon, fried and crumbled – Adds salty, smoky crunch.
• Scallions, thinly sliced – Brightens the dish with freshness.
• Maple bourbon syrup – Thick, warm, and slightly boozy—it pulls everything together.

This dish doesn’t need anything fancy, just real ingredients done right. By combining crispy panko-coated chicken with golden waffles and a sweet-salty topping combo, you’re crafting a meal that’s satisfying on every level.

Discover great ideas like our air fryer bloomin’ onion recipe for another crunchy air-fried side dish that wows at the table!

Prepping Your Chicken Like a Pro

How to Season and Bread Chicken for the Air Fryer

Getting the chicken just right is the heart of this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer version. You want each piece golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:

1. Cut chicken tenders into 1.5″ nuggets – This size cooks evenly and stays juicy inside.
2. Mix your dry seasoning blend – In a shallow dish, combine:
   • ¼ cup flour
   • ¾ tsp garlic powder
   • ¾ tsp onion powder
   • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
   • Salt and pepper to taste
     This combo adds depth and just the right amount of heat.
3. Make the egg wash – In a second shallow bowl, whisk together:
   • 1 egg
   • 1 tsp milk
4. Prepare a third dish with panko breadcrumbs – These deliver that signature crispiness that standard breadcrumbs just can’t match.

Now, let’s build layers:

• Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture to coat it with seasoning.
• Dip it in the egg wash, letting the excess drip off.
• Press into panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
• Set aside on a plate or tray. Repeat until all chicken pieces are breaded.

Pro tip: Lightly spritz your nuggets with oil before they go into the air fryer for an extra golden finish.

Why Panko Is the Secret to That Golden Crunch

Not all breadcrumbs are created equal. Panko, which originates from Japanese cuisine, is airier and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs. It doesn’t absorb as much oil, which means it crisps up better and faster in an air fryer.

Here’s what makes panko the top choice for air fryer chicken:

• Larger flakes = More surface area = Bigger crunch
• Stays crispy longer, even after cooling
• Better browning without sogginess

That golden texture is what makes every bite feel indulgent—even though it’s air-fried. You’re getting a healthier version of fried chicken without sacrificing any satisfaction.

Don’t miss our air fryer swordfish steak recipe if you’re exploring other panko-crusted air fryer ideas!

Perfecting the Air Fryer Method

Best Temperature and Time for Cooking Chicken Nuggets

When it comes to nailing this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer style, timing and temperature are everything. The air fryer isn’t just a shortcut—it’s your tool for delivering perfectly crispy chicken nuggets without the grease.

Follow these simple steps:

• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F – Preheating helps the chicken cook evenly and start crisping right away.
• Lightly spray the basket with cooking oil so nothing sticks.
• Arrange the chicken nuggets in a single layer – Overlapping pieces will steam, not crisp.
• Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure an even, golden crust.

For this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer version, keeping chicken crispy is key. Work in batches if necessary so every piece has room to breathe. When done, the internal temp should reach 165°F—use a thermometer if needed to be sure it’s cooked through.

Tips for Even Cooking and Crispy Texture

To take this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer dish to the next level, use these pro tips:

• Use a light oil spray on top of the breaded chicken before air frying. It helps the panko crisp up and brown beautifully.
• Flip halfway through – This ensures both sides crisp evenly.
• Avoid overcrowding the basket – Too many pieces at once means uneven cooking.
• Let nuggets rest after cooking – Give them 2–3 minutes to firm up so the crunch holds up under the waffles and syrup.

A properly cooked air fryer chicken bite should be golden, crispy, and juicy. That texture is what makes this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer friendly and crave-worthy, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend brunch.

Looking for inspiration? Try our air fryer chickpeas seasoning for another way to explore air fryer crunch with bold flavor.

Making Fluffy Mini Waffles from Scratch

Mixing the Batter Right for Buttermilk Waffles

The waffles are just as important as the chicken in this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer dish. To balance the crispy, savory nuggets, your waffles should be light, golden, and just sweet enough to complement the maple bourbon syrup.

Here’s how to make them just right:

Ingredients for the waffles:

• 2 cups Krusteaz buttermilk pancake mix
• 1½ cups cold water
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the pancake mix, water, egg, and oil.
2. Whisk until just blended—don’t overmix. A few lumps are perfectly fine.
3. Let the batter rest for 3–5 minutes. This helps the mix hydrate and results in fluffier waffles.

While the chicken cooks in the air fryer, you can whip up a full batch of waffles so they’re ready for stacking.

Mini Waffle Maker Tips: Why Size Matters

For this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer version, we recommend using a mini waffle maker. Why? Because smaller waffles create better portion control and are perfect for stacking with crispy chicken nuggets.

Here’s how to get the best results:

• Preheat the waffle maker fully before adding the batter.
• Lightly grease the plates with cooking spray.
• Pour in just enough batter to fill the waffle mold without overflowing.
• Cook until golden brown (usually 3–4 minutes depending on your appliance).

Mini waffles reheat beautifully in the toaster, so go ahead and make extras. Store leftovers in the freezer for a quick fix next time you’re craving this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer style again.

Want something sweet to go with it? Check out our air fryer s’mores dip—a melty, gooey dessert that pairs perfectly with waffles.

Crafting the Signature Maple Bourbon Syrup

Maple Bourbon Syrup: Ingredients and Simmering Technique

No chicken and waffles recipe air fryer dish is complete without an irresistible syrup. Enter: maple bourbon syrup. This adult-friendly twist adds warmth, depth, and just the right touch of sweetness to bring your dish together.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons maple bourbon – Choose a quality one for rich flavor
• 1 tablespoon butter

How to make it:

1. Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan.
2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
3. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

This sticky, buttery glaze becomes the perfect final layer to drizzle over the crispy chicken and fluffy waffles. It adds complexity and richness without overpowering the dish.

For this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer twist, this syrup brings the sweet-savory balance full circle.

How to Store and Use This Syrup Beyond Brunch

Leftovers? You’ll want them. Store any extra syrup in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Simply reheat gently before serving again.

Here are a few other ways to use this syrup:

• Over pancakes or French toast
• Drizzled on roasted sweet potatoes
• As a glaze for grilled pork or salmon
• Mixed into a bourbon cocktail or old fashioned

This syrup isn’t just for brunch—it’s a flavor enhancer you’ll want to keep on hand, especially if you’re making the chicken and waffles recipe air fryer dish regularly. Trust me, you will.

Don’t miss our banana bread air fryer recipe—it’s another comfort classic reinvented for the air fryer, and pairs beautifully with maple syrup leftovers.

How to Assemble Chicken and Waffles Air Fryer Style

Plating Like a Pro: Balancing Crunch, Sweet, and Savory

You’ve air-fried your chicken, cooked your mini waffles, and simmered that maple bourbon syrup to perfection. Now, it’s time to bring this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer dish together in a way that tastes as good as it looks.

Here’s how to plate it like a pro:

1. Start with three mini waffles arranged in a fan or stacked.
2. Top with a handful of crispy chicken nuggets fresh from the air fryer.
3. Drizzle generously with warm maple bourbon syrup.
4. Sprinkle with bacon bits for that smoky, salty crunch.
5. Finish with chopped scallions to add color and freshness.

This isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. Each bite is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, crispy, and fluffy. You’ll taste the magic of every layer that makes this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer version so addictive.

Toppings That Take It Over the Top: Bacon Bits, Scallions, and More

The base of your chicken and waffles recipe air fryer creation is strong, but the toppings take it from great to unforgettable.

Here’s what we recommend:

• Bacon bits: Fry thick-cut bacon until crisp, chop finely, and scatter over the top. The saltiness enhances the maple sweetness.
• Scallions: Their mild onion flavor adds contrast without overpowering the other elements.
• Extra syrup on the side: Let guests drizzle to their heart’s content.

Want to really impress? Try adding a dash of hot sauce for heat or a sprinkle of crushed pecans for crunch. You can even top with a soft fried egg for a breakfast-for-dinner twist.

This is why the chicken and waffles recipe air fryer method is such a win—it’s endlessly customizable, fast to prepare, and totally crowd-pleasing.

Check out our corn ribs air fryer recipe for another bold, crispy side dish to serve with this classic.

Storage, Reheating, and Leftover Ideas

Best Ways to Store Extra Waffles and Chicken

One of the best things about this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer dish is how well it stores. Whether you made too much (lucky you) or you’re meal prepping for later, storing leftovers properly ensures you enjoy the same flavor and crunch the next day.

For the chicken:

• Let the nuggets cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb moisture.
• Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.

For the waffles:

• Cool waffles in a single layer (don’t stack when warm—they’ll get soggy).
• Store in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
• Refrigerate for 2–3 days or freeze for 2 months.

This makes the chicken and waffles recipe air fryer version perfect for weekend batch cooking.

Creative Leftovers: Mini Sandwiches, Wraps, and More

Have leftovers? Get creative! This chicken and waffles recipe air fryer combo transforms beautifully into quick weekday meals.

Here are a few delicious ways to remix your extras:

• Mini waffle sandwiches: Add a slice of cheese and a smear of syrup or aioli between two waffles and a chicken nugget.
• Chicken wrap: Wrap air-fried chicken, crumbled waffle pieces, and a drizzle of syrup in a tortilla for a sweet-savory twist on a lunch wrap.
• Waffle croutons: Dice leftover waffles, toast in the oven, and use them as fun crunchy toppings on soups or salads.

Reheat your chicken and waffles recipe air fryer leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes for best results. Skip the microwave—it’ll ruin the crispiness.

Craving a unique twist on a similar comfort food? Don’t miss our catfish air fryer recipe. It’s another Southern classic reimagined for the air fryer—crispy, flaky, and full of flavor.

Conclusion: Why This Chicken and Waffles Recipe Air Fryer Version Belongs in Your Kitchen

If you’ve made it this far, you already know: this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer is more than just a dish—it’s a comfort food masterpiece with a healthier twist. From the golden, crispy chicken nuggets to the fluffy mini waffles, every bite is the perfect harmony of savory, sweet, and satisfying.

What makes this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer method so special is its simplicity. You don’t need a deep fryer, you don’t need a culinary degree—all you need is a few pantry staples, a waffle maker, and your trusty air fryer. The maple bourbon syrup? That’s just the cherry on top.

Whether you’re cooking for Sunday brunch, a fun dinner, or just treating yourself midweek, this chicken and waffles recipe air fryer version delivers big flavor with less mess and fewer calories. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, customizable, and reheats like a dream—meaning it’s not just delicious, but practical, too.

This is one of those recipes that turns a regular meal into a moment. It brings people together. It comforts, surprises, and delights—all at once.

For more recipes Follow me in facebook and Pinterest .

Looking for inspiration? Try our air fryer tortilla pizza recipe next for another creative spin on air-fried favorites.

Chicken And Waffles Recipe Air Fryer FAQs Answered

Yumi

Welcome to Yumi Meals!
I’m Yumi, and this space is a heartfelt extension of my lifelong love for cooking. What began in my grandmother’s kitchen has become a journey of sharing soulful, approachable recipes that celebrate connection, tradition, and creativity. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, I hope Yumi Meals brings warmth and inspiration to your table.