If you’ve ever wished for the perfect cozy brunch dish that combines the sweet, syrupy goodness of waffles with the crispy, savory delight of fried chicken, then this Chicken & Waffles Casserole Recipe is exactly what your taste buds have been craving. This casserole takes all the fun of chicken and waffles and transforms it into an effortlessly shareable, oven-baked dish that’s perfect for a family breakfast, brunch gathering, or even a comforting dinner. With layers of golden waffles and tender popcorn chicken soaked in a rich maple-infused egg custard, every bite bursts with a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken & Waffles Casserole Recipe keeps things simple but mighty satisfying. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from the fluffy texture of the waffles to the crispy chicken pieces and the sweet touch brought in by real maple syrup, making each bite balanced and bursting with flavor.
- Frozen Eggo homestyle waffles: The foundation of the casserole, these waffles provide a familiar, crispy base with pockets that soak up the custard perfectly.
- Frozen popcorn chicken: Adds a crispy, savory protein element that’s easy to prepare and bite-sized for layering.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and create a rich, custardy texture that defines this casserole’s charm.
- Whole or low-fat milk: Helps create the smooth custard mixture that soaks into the waffles and chicken.
- Real maple syrup: Infuses the egg mixture with natural sweetness to complement the savoriness wonderfully.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to balance and enhance all the flavors in the dish.
How to Make Chicken & Waffles Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This sets the stage for your casserole to bake evenly and helps prevent sticking, ensuring a perfect lift when serving.
Step 2: Chop the Popcorn Chicken
Take your frozen popcorn chicken and allow it to thaw slightly so it’s easier to chop. Cut it into bite-sized pieces that will make every forkful a perfect bite of crispy, savory goodness mixed throughout the casserole.
Step 3: Toast and Cube the Waffles
Toast the Eggo homestyle waffles according to package instructions to bring out their classic crispy texture. Once toasted, cut them into cubes—this helps create delicious layers within your casserole and lets the custard soak in without getting soggy too quickly.
Step 4: Layer Waffles and Chicken
Add half of your cubed waffles in an even layer on the bottom of your baking dish. Then, scatter half of the chopped popcorn chicken evenly over the waffles. Repeat with the remaining waffles and chicken to build beautiful, tasty layers.
Step 5: Whisk and Pour the Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth and well combined. Pour this luscious custard evenly over the layered waffles and chicken, ensuring every piece will soak up that flavorful mix as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake your casserole for 50 to 60 minutes until the top becomes golden and the egg mixture is completely set. This slow bake melds all the textures and flavors into one delightful dish that’s crispy on top yet soft and creamy inside.
How to Serve Chicken & Waffles Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or green onions brings a fresh, mild onion flavor and a vibrant pop of color that makes this casserole feel extra special on the plate. For a little extra indulgence, drizzle a touch more maple syrup or a dollop of whipped butter right before serving.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty on its own, but pairing it with fresh fruit like berries or citrus slices adds a bright, juicy contrast that refreshes the palate. For something savory, consider a simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Chicken & Waffles Casserole Recipe family-style straight from the baking dish for cozy gatherings, or plate individual portions topped with fried egg sunny-side up for an extra brunch wow factor. Another fun idea is to offer a small syrup pitcher on the side for guests to pour their desired sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the casserole into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy mornings or easy dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before or after baking. To freeze unbaked, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and store up to 2 months. To freeze baked leftovers, cool completely before wrapping tightly and freezing.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated portions in a preheated 350-degree oven for about 15-20 minutes, uncovered, until warmed through and the top is crisp again. Frozen casserole should be thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating similarly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen popcorn chicken?
Absolutely! You can cook and dice fresh fried or baked chicken tenders to swap in. Just make sure they are seasoned well and cut into similar-sized pieces for even layering.
Is there a substitute for Eggo waffles in this recipe?
Yes! You can use any frozen homestyle waffle, or even homemade waffles if you prefer. Just make sure they are sturdy enough to hold up in the casserole without turning too soggy.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
To keep it gluten-free, use gluten-free waffles and ensure your popcorn chicken is gluten-free as well. Many brands offer gluten-free options that work perfectly in this dish.
How sweet is the casserole with the maple syrup?
The maple syrup adds a gentle, natural sweetness to balance the savory flavors, but it’s not overly sweet. You can adjust the amount of syrup in the custard or add more on top when serving based on your preference.
Can I prepare this casserole vegan or vegetarian?
This version isn’t vegan due to eggs, milk, and chicken, but you could experiment with vegan waffles, plant-based chicken alternatives, and an egg replacer custard to create a vegan-friendly twist.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully satisfying about layering the classic flavors of sweet waffles and crispy chicken into an easy casserole format. This Chicken & Waffles Casserole Recipe brings comfort, flavor, and convenience together in such a joyful way that it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the table—your friends and family will thank you!
Print
Chicken & Waffles Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delightful Chicken & Waffles Casserole combining crispy popcorn chicken and toasted waffles soaked in a sweet maple-egg custard, baked to golden perfection for a hearty brunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Waffles
- 16 frozen Eggo homestyle waffles
- 1 (25.5-oz) package frozen popcorn chicken, partially thawed
Custard Mixture
- 12 large eggs
- 1½ cups whole or low-fat milk
- ½ cup real maple syrup
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Slightly thaw the frozen popcorn chicken so it can be chopped easily. Cut into bite-sized pieces for even layering.
- Toast the Waffles: Toast the Eggo homestyle waffles following package directions until crisp, then cut them into cubes to fit into the casserole.
- Layer the Casserole: Place half of the cubed waffles evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. Spread half of the chopped chicken pieces over the waffles. Repeat with the remaining waffles and chicken to create two layers.
- Make the Custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered chicken and waffles. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, until the custard is set and the top is golden.
Notes
- You can substitute the frozen popcorn chicken with cooked shredded chicken if preferred.
- Use low-fat milk for a lighter version or whole milk for richness.
- Adjust the amount of maple syrup based on desired sweetness.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to set before serving.
- Optional: Serve with extra maple syrup or hot sauce on the side for added flavor.
