Southern Smothered Chicken & Gravy with Buttery Cornbread Waffles

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Southern Smothered Chicken & Gravy with Buttery Cornbread Waffles. This dish, deeply rooted in Southern traditions, combines crispy, golden waffles with tender, seasoned chicken smothered in rich, savory gravy. It’s a meal that feels like a warm embrace, reminiscent of family gatherings, Sunday suppers, and the kind of home-cooked goodness passed down through generations.

The balance of textures and flavors is what makes this dish truly special. The waffles provide a crisp, slightly sweet contrast to the creamy, savory gravy and the juicy, seasoned chicken. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at brunch or simply craving a cozy and indulgent meal, this dish delivers on all fronts.

Ingredients Needed

For the Smothered Chicken & Gravy:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Buttery Cornbread Waffles:

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/4 cups whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra richness)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (for extra depth of flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a shallow dish, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. If needed, mix cornstarch with a little water and add to thicken the gravy. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer on low for 20 minutes until tender.

Step 4: Make the Cornbread Waffles

Preheat your waffle iron. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix the milk, eggs, and melted butter. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring just until incorporated. Fold in the cheddar cheese and smoked paprika. Cook waffles in the preheated waffle iron until golden brown and crisp.

Step 5: Assemble & Serve

Place a warm cornbread waffle on each plate, top with smothered chicken, and generously ladle gravy over the top. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a final touch.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish brings together a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. The cornbread waffles add a slight sweetness that complements the rich, seasoned gravy. The chicken remains tender and juicy, while the crispy edges of the waffles provide a perfect textural contrast. Slow simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring each bite is deeply satisfying.

Variations & Customizations

• Spicy Southern Kick: Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning and a dash of hot sauce to the gravy.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken and a gluten-free waffle mix.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free butter for the waffles.
• Extra Crunch: Add crumbled bacon to the waffle batter for a smoky flavor boost.

COOKING Note

For an extra crispy texture, cook the waffles slightly longer than usual. This helps them hold up against the rich, creamy gravy.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with collard greens, creamy mac and cheese, or a fresh side salad. A drizzle of honey over the waffles before serving enhances their natural sweetness.

Helpful Tips

1. Keep Waffles Warm: Place cooked waffles on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven while finishing the rest.
2. Avoid Overcooking the Chicken: Simmer just until tender; overcooking can make it dry.
3. Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground black pepper and high-quality smoked paprika make a big difference in flavor.
4. Prep Ahead: Make the waffles in advance and reheat in the oven for convenience.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Serving: 1 plate (chicken, waffle, and gravy)
• Calories: 620
• Protein: 40g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 4g

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Seasoning the Chicken Properly: Underseasoned chicken leads to bland results. Be generous with spices.
2. Skipping the Waffle Crisping Step: Letting waffles sit too long can make them soggy. Keep them warm in the oven.
3. Over-Thickening the Gravy: The gravy should be smooth and pourable—add broth if it gets too thick.
4. Crowding the Pan: Cook chicken in batches to ensure even browning and proper texture.

Conclusion

This Southern Smothered Chicken & Gravy with Buttery Cornbread Waffles is the epitome of comfort food, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it for brunch, dinner, or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite in your home. Serve it up, savor the flavors, and enjoy a true Southern classic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought waffles?

A: Yes! While homemade waffles are best, high-quality store-bought cornbread waffles work in a pinch.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store chicken and waffles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze cornbread waffles?

A: Yes, freeze them in a single layer, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

A: Reheat waffles in the oven at 350°F and warm the chicken and gravy on the stovetop.

Print