Chicken and Waffle Casserole

Chicken and waffles was never on my radar growing up in rural northern Wisconsin. Perhaps my family didn’t go out enough, but I never even knew this magical brunch recipe existed until I was much older, and that makes me sad. I’ve made a point of making up for lost time by ordering this classic southern comfort food any chance I get.

When going out to brunch or making homemade waffles and fried chicken from scratch doesn’t fit in the schedule, you’ll find me making this chicken and waffle casserole recipe at home. It’s a great way to satisfy the craving on the weekends. My kids especially love to eat and help with this breakfast casserole because it’s very easy to make. From layering frozen waffles and popcorn chicken pieces to preparing the sweet-and-savory egg batter, it’s always a family affair.

Chicken and Waffle Casserole Ingredients

• Frozen waffles: While you can use any frozen waffles, we found that thick and fluffy waffles cut into bite-size pieces work best. The thickness helps them soak up the egg mixture (like a baked French toast) and allows parts of the waffle pieces to remain above the egg mixture with the chicken, so you get lovely crisp edges, too.
• Popcorn chicken: Choose any brand of frozen popcorn chicken or frozen chicken tenders. Just make sure to cut larger pieces into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Eggs: The eggs bind the waffles and chicken together so the casserole slices neatly.
• Half-and-half cream: Half-and-half adds richness while also making the eggs light and fluffy.
• Seasoning: Salt and black pepper—plus an optional dash of cayenne—are all you need to add just the right amount of punch to chicken and waffle casserole.
• Maple syrup: A generous pour of maple syrup in the egg batter adds sweetness, while a drizzle over each serving is the perfect finish.

Directions

Step 1: Toast the waffles

Toast the waffles according to the package directions. Cut them into bite-size pieces, then arrange the pieces in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Add the chicken

Prepare the popcorn chicken according to package directions. Scatter the chicken over the waffles.

Editor’s Tip: Arranging the casserole so the popcorn chicken rests mostly on top (rather than being submerged in the egg mixture) is best. This allows it to get nice and crispy. If submerged in egg, the chicken’s breading will become soggy and less appealing in terms of taste and texture.

Step 3: Beat the eggs

In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the half-and-half cream, maple syrup, salt, pepper and cayenne (if you’re using it). Evenly pour the egg mixture over the chicken and waffles.

Step 4: Bake the casserole

Bake the casserole in a 350°F oven for 35 minutes. Let it stand for five minutes before cutting it into squares.

Serve the slices of casserole with additional maple syrup.

Chicken and Waffle Casserole Variations

• Use hot honey: Instead of maple syrup, finish this chicken and waffle casserole with a drizzle of hot honey for an extra spicy finish.
• Drizzle gravy on top: Marry this casserole with southern biscuits and gravy by topping each serving with a pour of white gravy.
• Make an herbed honey butter: If you’re looking for an easy upgrade, you can make a tantalizing herbed honey butter sauce to serve on top by combining 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 4 tablespoons of honey, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, a sprig of rosemary and two sprigs of fresh thyme in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook them until the butter melts and the sauce is fragrant. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 to 2 teaspoons of cayenne, then remove the fresh herbs. Drizzle it warm over the casserole.

How to Store Chicken and Waffle Casserole

Chicken and waffle casserole should be stored in an airtight food storage container in the refrigerator.

How long does chicken and waffle casserole last?

For the best taste, enjoy leftover chicken and waffle casserole within three to four days.

How should you reheat chicken and waffle casserole?

For the best taste and texture, we recommend warming leftover chicken and waffle casserole in a baking dish or sheet pan in the oven. Bake it at 350º until it’s heated through and the waffles and chicken are crisp.

Alternatively, you can microwave chicken and waffle casserole. Note that the waffles and chicken will lose much of their crispy texture if reheated this way.

Can you freeze chicken and waffle casserole?

Yes! You can freeze a fully baked chicken and waffle casserole for up to three months. Defrost it in the refrigerator until it’s mostly thawed, and then bake it in the oven until it’s heated through.

Can you make chicken and waffle casserole ahead of time?

Sure. Like an overnight French toast casserole, you can assemble the casserole the night before if needed. Assemble it as directed, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Remove it from the fridge and let rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes (while the oven preheats) before baking it as directed.

Chicken and Waffle Casserole Tips

Can you use homemade fried chicken and waffles?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade waffle recipe, you can definitely use it for this recipe. You can also use homemade popcorn chicken.

For best results, use freshly made homemade waffles. If you want to use leftover waffles, we recommend toasting them in the oven or in a toaster to help crisp them up before building the casserole.

What can you serve with chicken and waffle casserole?

Round out this southern-style breakfast with a side of baked bacon, hearty breakfast sausage patties or colorful fruit salad.