Go Back
When it comes to ranch sauce, the debate between homemade and store-bought options is a common one. While store-bought ranch dressing offers convenience, making your own ranch sauce allows for greater customization and freshness. Homemade ranch can be tailored to suit your taste preferences, with the ability to adjust the seasoning, creaminess, and herbaceous notes to your liking. Moreover, creating your own ranch sauce ensures that you’re using high-quality ingredients, free from preservatives and artificial flavors.

Mini Waffle Chicken Ranch Sliders

Discover the delicious fusion of flavors in Mini Waffle Chicken Ranch Sliders! This fun twist on a Southern classic combines crispy fried chicken, fluffy waffles, and creamy ranch sauce in a bite-sized treat perfect for any gathering. Learn how to create the perfect marinade for juicy chicken, whip up light and airy waffles, and craft a homemade ranch sauce that ties it all together. Elevate your mealtimes with this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

Oil for frying (canola or vegetable)

For the Waffles:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 tablespoon sugar

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup milk

2 large eggs

¼ cup melted butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Ranch Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup sour cream

2 tablespoons ranch seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)

Additional:

Lettuce leaves (for garnish)

Pickles (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken:

    - In a mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are completely coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for enhanced flavor).

      Bread the Chicken:

        - Set up a dredging station: place flour in one bowl and panko breadcrumbs in another. Remove the marinated chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in flour, dip it back into the buttermilk, and then coat with panko breadcrumbs. Set the breaded chicken aside on a plate.

          Cook the Chicken:

            - In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the breaded chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each piece for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

              Make the Waffles:

                - While the chicken is frying, prepare the waffle batter. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just blended (do not overmix).

                  - Preheat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Cook the batter in the waffle maker until they are golden brown and crisp. Keep the finished waffles warm in a low oven while cooking the remaining batter.

                    Prepare the Ranch Sauce:

                      - In a small bowl, blend together mayonnaise, sour cream, and ranch seasoning until smooth and creamy. If desired, fold in chopped chives for added freshness.

                        Assemble the Sliders:

                          - To build the sliders, cut each waffle in half to form a top and bottom. On one half, place a crispy fried chicken piece, add a generous dollop of ranch sauce, and top with a few lettuce leaves. Cap it off with the other half of the waffle.

                            - If you like an extra crunch, add pickles before closing the slider. Repeat the process until all sliders are assembled.

                              Serve and Enjoy:

                                - Serve the Mini Waffle Chicken Ranch Sliders immediately, accompanied by extra ranch sauce on the side for dipping.

                                  Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 8 sliders

                                    Presentation Tips:

                                      - Arrange the sliders on a platter with fresh herbs for garnish. You can also serve with a side of colorful vegetables or sweet potato fries for a delightful spread. Enjoy the fun and flavor of these unique sliders!