If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the crispy, fluffy delight of waffles with tender, juicy chicken into a single, soul-satisfying meal, then the Chicken & Waffles Casserole: Sweet, Savory & Southern Comfort in One Dish Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. This dish takes classic Southern comfort food and turns it into an easy-to-make, layered casserole that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. Every bite bursts with sweet maple syrup, savory spices, melty cheddar, and that unmistakable warmth from hearty chicken and waffles baked together. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and is as fun to make as it is to eat—let me show you how to bring this deliciousness to your table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are as straightforward as they come, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make this Chicken & Waffles Casserole: Sweet, Savory & Southern Comfort in One Dish Recipe truly irresistible. From the crispy waffle bites to the creamy egg custard and melty cheese topper, everything works together like a well-rehearsed Southern symphony.
- 3 cups cooked chicken: Shredded or chopped, this forms the hearty protein base.
- 4 cups frozen waffles: Toasted and cut into bite-sized pieces, they provide that classic fluffy and crispy texture.
- 6 large eggs: The binding agent that brings richness and structure to the casserole.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess to the egg mixture for a smooth custard texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: For extra indulgence and a velvety finish.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: Infuses sweetness throughout and pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a savory depth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Compliments the garlic with mellow savoriness.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): A touch of heat for those who like it spicy.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a golden, gooey layer topping the casserole.
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted): Brushed on top for richness and a perfectly browned finish.
- Chopped chives or parsley: Fresh herbs to brighten and garnish.
How to Make Chicken & Waffles Casserole: Sweet, Savory & Southern Comfort in One Dish Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Waffles
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Toast your frozen waffles until they’re just crisp enough to hold up well but still retain that fluffy goodness inside. Once toasted, cut the waffles into bite-sized pieces—this makes layering easier and helps each forkful have that perfect waffle chunk.
Step 2: Layer the Waffles and Chicken
Start by spreading half of your waffle pieces evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. Next, scatter half of the cooked, shredded chicken over the waffles. Repeat these layers with the remaining waffles and chicken to build a layered base full of contrasting textures and hearty flavor. This sets the stage for that classic Chicken & Waffles Casserole: Sweet, Savory & Southern Comfort in One Dish Recipe experience.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne if you’re using it. This glorious blend will soak into the waffles and chicken, turning the whole dish into a creamy, custardy masterpiece that’s perfectly balanced between sweet and savory.
Step 4: Pour, Top, and Butter
Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over your layered casserole, making sure the custard seeps in between the layers. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top—because what’s comfort food without some melty cheese? Finally, drizzle the melted butter across the surface. This will give you a golden, slightly crispy topping as the casserole bakes.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes. This allows the custard to set and the flavors to meld together. After 35 minutes, remove the foil and keep baking for another 15 minutes or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the center is firm to the touch. Once done, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes—this wait is worth it to allow all the layers to settle and slice nicely.
How to Serve Chicken & Waffles Casserole: Sweet, Savory & Southern Comfort in One Dish Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh chopped chives or parsley on top not only gives the casserole a beautiful pop of color, but it adds a fresh, mild bite that contrasts perfectly with the richness. For an extra touch, drizzle some warm maple syrup right before serving or on individual plates—this recipe loves a little extra sweetness!
Side Dishes
This casserole stands tall on its own, but you can make your meal even more delightful by adding bright, crunchy sides. A fresh arugula or spinach salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, or some roasted seasonal veggies add a nice balance. If you want to stick with Southern themes, creamy collard greens or tangy pickled okra would complement beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this casserole as individual squares alongside small ramekins of extra syrup and hot sauce for guests to customize. It’s also fabulous stacked high with fluffy scrambled eggs and crispy bacon on a brunch buffet table. For a cozy family dinner, place the casserole at the center with bowls of assorted toppings and let everyone create their perfect bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually marry well overnight, making leftovers just as delicious as the day it was baked.
Freezing
If you want to make this ahead well in advance, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s still slightly frozen.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through, or for best texture, bake uncovered in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes. This helps restore the crispiness on top and warms the dish evenly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh waffles instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Homemade waffles work wonderfully here and can add a special touch of freshness and flavor. Just toast them until lightly crisp to prevent sogginess in the casserole.
What type of chicken is best for this casserole?
Grilled, roasted, or even leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just make sure it’s cooked and shredded or chopped to your liking before layering.
How spicy is the casserole with cayenne pepper?
The cayenne adds a subtle warmth, not overwhelming heat, so it complements the sweet and savory elements beautifully. You can omit it entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
Can I make this vegetarian?
While the classic recipe relies on chicken, you could substitute cooked tofu or a hearty vegetable like roasted cauliflower, but you’ll lose some of that Southern comfort charm.
Is this casserole suitable for breakfast and dinner?
Yes! This dish is incredibly versatile and hearty enough for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying dinner. It’s a true any-time-of-day comfort food winner.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the combination of chicken and waffles, and this casserole version brings all those flavors and textures into one easy, heartwarming dish. The Chicken & Waffles Casserole: Sweet, Savory & Southern Comfort in One Dish Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to recipes when you want to impress friends, feed your family with love, or treat yourself to something special. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
This Chicken & Waffles Casserole combines sweet, savory, and southern comfort flavors in one hearty dish. Layers of toasted waffles and shredded chicken are soaked in a spiced maple-egg custard, baked to a golden perfection, and topped with melted cheddar cheese and butter. Perfect for brunch or a comforting main meal, it’s a delicious twist on the classic pairing of chicken and waffles.
Ingredients
Waffle and Chicken Layers
- 4 cups frozen waffles, toasted and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (plus extra for serving)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Chopped chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Toast and Cut Waffles: Toast the frozen waffles until they are lightly crisp, then cut them into bite-sized pieces for layering.
- Layer Waffles and Chicken: Spread half of the waffle pieces evenly in the bottom of the baking dish, then layer half of the shredded chicken over them. Repeat with the remaining waffles and chicken to create two layers.
- Mix Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using, ensuring a smooth custard mixture.
- Combine and Add Cheese: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered waffles and chicken, making sure it seeps through the layers. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole.
- Add Butter and Bake Covered: Drizzle the melted butter over the cheese layer. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake the casserole for an additional 15 minutes uncovered, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set firmly.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking before serving. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley and serve with extra maple syrup on the side if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier version, use spicy fried chicken or add hot sauce to the egg mixture.
- You can prep this casserole the night before and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
- Use homemade waffles for a more personalized flavor.
- Ensure the waffles are toasted well so they hold texture after baking.
