Maple Hot Chicken Mac n’ Cheese Waffle Tacos

Because sometimes one comfort food just isn’t enough… so I smashed three together. We’re talking about Maple Hot Chicken Mac n’ Cheese Waffle Tacos! This dish combines crispy fried chicken, creamy mac n’ cheese, and maple-kissed waffles into one glorious handheld taco. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or brunch gatherings, these tacos are bold, spicy, sweet, and savory all at once. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a unique meal, this recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy chicken, creamy cheese, and sweet waffles creates a taste sensation like no other.
• Handheld Delight: Easy to eat on the go or enjoy at the table—perfect for any occasion.
• Comfort Food Fusion: Combines three beloved dishes into one epic taco that satisfies multiple cravings.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust spices and toppings to suit your taste preferences.
• Impressive Presentation: These tacos look as good as they taste, making them great for impressing friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Maple Hot Chicken Mac n’ Cheese Waffle Tacos, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Fryer or large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Waffle maker

Why These Tools Matter

• Fryer or large pot: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy chicken texture.
• Mixing bowls: Great for combining ingredients without any mess.
• Whisk: Helps in creating smooth batters for both the waffle and the mac n’ cheese.
• Waffle maker: Creates those perfectly shaped waffle shells that hold all the delicious fillings.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 pound chicken tenders cut into small pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup hot sauce
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup corn starch
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp cayenne
• 1 tbsp oregano
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp white pepper
• 1 tsp salt

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp salted butter
• 1 cup hot sauce
• 1/4 cup maple syrup

For the Waffles

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup maple sugar (or regular granular sugar)
• 1/4 cup milk

For the Mac n’ Cheese

• 1 1/2 cups evaporated milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tbsp hot sauce
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 cups cooked macaroni

For Serving

• 6 strips of chopped maple turkey turkey turkey bacon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

How to Make Maple Hot Chicken Mac n’ Cheese Waffle Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk with hot sauce. Add chicken tenders and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
• In another bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, white pepper, and salt.
• Heat oil in a fryer or large pot over medium-high heat. Dredge marinated chicken in the seasoned flour mixture before frying until golden brown.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in hot sauce and maple syrup until well combined. Remove from heat once heated through.

Step 3: Prepare Waffle Batter

• Preheat your waffle maker according to manufacturer instructions. In a mixing bowl, combine flour with eggs, salt, maple sugar, and milk until smooth.

Step 4: Cook Waffles

• Pour batter into preheated waffle maker. Cook until golden brown according to your waffle maker’s instructions. Repeat until all batter is used.

Step 5: Make Mac n’ Cheese

• In a saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk with cheese until melted. Add cornstarch mixed with garlic powder and hot sauce. Stir until thickened. Fold in cooked macaroni and season with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

• Begin layering by placing a scoop of mac n’ cheese on each waffle shell. Top with fried chicken pieces coated in the spicy maple sauce.
• Sprinkle chopped turkey turkey turkey bacon over top and garnish with fresh parsley before folding your waffle taco closed.

Enjoy your delicious Maple Hot Chicken Mac n’ Cheese Waffle Tacos!

How to Serve Maple Hot Chicken Mac n’ Cheese Waffle Tacos

These flavorful tacos are a delightful twist on classic comfort foods. Whether you’re serving them for a casual dinner or a fun brunch, here are some tasty suggestions to elevate your meal.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the tacos.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

• Creamy Ranch Dip: A cool ranch dip is perfect for drizzling over or dipping your tacos for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spicy Aioli: A garlic and chili aioli can add a zesty kick that pairs well with the sweet and savory elements of the tacos.

Pair with Sweet Potatoes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet crunch that complements the savory tastes of the chicken and mac n’ cheese.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley or Cilantro: Adding fresh herbs as a garnish not only enhances the presentation but also brings a burst of freshness to each bite.

Include Pickled Vegetables

• Quick Pickles: Serve quick-pickled cucumbers or radishes on the side for a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the dish.

Offer Extra Waffle Shells

• Bonus Waffle Shells: Have extra waffle shells available for guests who may want to build their own taco creations.

How to Perfect Maple Hot Chicken Mac n’ Cheese Waffle Tacos

To achieve taco perfection, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

• Bold Flavors: Season your chicken generously to ensure each bite is packed with flavor. The right spices can make all the difference.
• Crispy Texture: Fry your chicken until it’s golden brown for that satisfying crunch. A double fry can add even more crispiness.
• Creamy Consistency: Use freshly shredded cheese for your mac n’ cheese; it melts better than pre-shredded options, giving you that creamy texture.
• Waffle Consistency: Make sure your waffle batter is thick enough to hold its shape when cooked, providing stability for your taco fillings.
• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve these tacos right after assembly while everything is hot and fresh.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spice levels in the hot sauce glaze according to your taste preferences for an added kick or milder flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Hot Chicken Mac n’ Cheese Waffle Tacos

Complementing these unique tacos with great sides can enhance your overall dining experience. Here are some perfect pairings:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy and creamy coleslaw adds freshness and balances out the richness of the tacos.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter offers a sweet and smoky flavor that pairs beautifully.
3. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans provide hearty satisfaction alongside these delicious tacos.
4. Potato Salad: A classic potato salad brings creaminess and comfort, making it a traditional favorite at any gathering.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse your palate between bites while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Simple roasted seasonal vegetables add earthy flavors that complement the dish nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Maple Hot Chicken Mac n’ Cheese Waffle Tacos, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Brine: Not brining the chicken can lead to dry meat. Make sure to soak your chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least an hour to ensure they stay juicy.
• Overcooking the Waffles: Cooking waffles too long can make them tough. Follow the cooking time closely and check for a golden-brown color for perfect texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland flavors. Use the full range of spices in the flour blend and mac n’ cheese to enhance taste.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Using cold ingredients can affect texture, especially for the waffle batter. Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing.
• Forgetting to Garnish: Skipping garnishes like chopped parsley can diminish presentation and flavor. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and brightness.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal taste.
• Ensure mac n’ cheese is cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Maple Hot Chicken Mac n’ Cheese Waffle Tacos

• Wrap each taco individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped tacos in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Maple Hot Chicken Mac n’ Cheese Waffle Tacos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and cover with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat. Warm tacos, flipping occasionally until heated through and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Maple Hot Chicken Mac n’ Cheese Waffle Tacos unique?

These tacos combine three beloved comfort foods—fried chicken, mac n’ cheese, and waffles—into one fun and savory handheld treat, offering diverse flavors in every bite.

Can I use different proteins for this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use turkey or lamb instead of chicken, adjusting cooking times as necessary based on the chosen protein’s thickness.

How do I customize my Maple Hot Chicken Mac n’ Cheese Waffle Tacos?

You can add vegetables like jalapeños or bell peppers to the mac n’ cheese or experiment with different cheeses for varied flavor profiles.

Are these tacos suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They store well in the refrigerator or freezer, making them an ideal option for meal prepping lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion

Maple Hot Chicken Mac n’ Cheese Waffle Tacos are not just a meal; they’re an experience bursting with flavor and texture. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or when you want something extra special at home. Plus, feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for even more delicious variations!

---