Chicken and Waffles

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken
   In a large bowl, mix buttermilk with hot sauce. Add chicken thighs, ensuring they're fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
2. Prepare the coating
   In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure all spices are evenly distributed.
3. Fry the chicken
   Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Heat oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place chicken in hot oil and fry for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a wire rack over a baking sheet.
4. Prepare waffle batter
   In a medium bowl, combine waffle mix, milk, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, and eggs. Whisk until smooth with just a few small lumps remaining. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes.
5. Cook the waffles
   Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer's instructions. Once hot, lightly grease with cooking spray. Pour appropriate amount of batter onto waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crisp, approximately 3-5 minutes. Repeat with remaining batter.
6. Assemble and serve
   Place one waffle on each serving plate. Top each with a piece of crispy fried chicken. Drizzle generously with warm maple syrup. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.