Step 1: Prepare the Fried Chicken
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, soak the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge) for extra tenderness and flavor.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere, then shake off excess flour.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken pieces and fry for about 4-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 2: Make the Stuffed Strawberry Cheesecake Waffles
- Preheat Waffle Maker: Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in the diced strawberries.
- Cook the Waffles: Lightly grease the waffle maker. Pour an appropriate amount of batter into the preheated waffle maker (usually about ½ to ¾ cup). Add a spoonful of the cheesecake filling in the center, then cover with a little more batter. Close the waffle maker and cook until golden brown and crisp, usually about 5 minutes. Repeat with remaining batter and filling.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
- Plate the Dish: Serve the waffles hot, topped with the fried chicken. Garnish with fresh strawberries and whipped cream if desired.
- Enjoy! Dive into this mouthwatering combination of sweet and savory flavors that is sure to impress!
Tips for Success
- Chicken Alternatives: Feel free to use bone-in chicken pieces for a different approach; just adjust the frying time accordingly.
- Waffle Variations: You can experiment with different fillings for the waffles, such as blueberries or chocolate chips, to suit your taste.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and waffles separately ahead of time, then reheat them in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
This Fried Chicken with Stuffed Strawberry Cheesecake Waffles is a deliciously indulgent dish that combines the best of both worlds—savory and sweet. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a special treat, this recipe will surely satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Enjoy every bite of this delightful fusion!