If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food mashup, you’ve just found it! These Chicken and Waffle Balls with Mac & Cheese are crispy on the outside, cheesy and savory on the inside, and finished with a sweet and spicy kick. Whether you’re whipping them up for a weekend brunch, party appetizer, or just a fun dinner idea, this deep-fried delight is guaranteed to impress.
In this recipe, classic frozen waffles team up with creamy mac and cheese and crispy chicken tenders to form golden, deep-fried balls of pure comfort. Drizzled with honey and a dash of hot sauce, these waffle balls strike a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to make this viral-worthy dish right at home.
Why You’ll Love These Chicken and Waffle Balls
There’s something magical about combining familiar favorites into one bite-sized treat. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:
- Bold flavors: Cheesy, crispy, sweet, and spicy — it hits every taste bud.
- Portable & fun: Great for game days, brunches, or parties.
- Customizable: You can swap in spicy chicken, different cheeses, or even flavored waffles.
- Deep-fried perfection: A golden crust holds all the gooey goodness inside.
- Visual appeal: These round, perfectly fried balls are social media gold. TikTok and Instagram love them!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make your own Chicken and Waffle Balls with Mac & Cheese, you only need a few simple ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- Frozen Eggo Waffles – Round toaster waffles are ideal. You’ll need two per ball.
- Macaroni and Cheese – Use your favorite homemade recipe or a quality store-bought version. Make sure it’s thick, not runny.
- Cooked Chicken Tenders – Crispy and pre-cooked, either homemade or frozen.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – For an extra cheesy layer inside.
- Cooking Oil – For deep frying.
- Non-Stick Spray or Oil – To grease your mold or ladle.
For Topping:
- Honey – For a sweet drizzle after frying.
- Hot Sauce (Optional) – To balance the sweetness with some heat.
How to Make Chicken and Waffle Balls
Follow these step-by-step instructions for the perfect golden, gooey chicken and waffle balls.
Step 1: Prepare Your Tools
Grease the inside of a deep ladle or oven-safe bowl with non-stick spray or a touch of oil. This will help form the ball shape and make it easy to remove.
Step 2: Build the Base
Place one Eggo waffle inside the greased ladle, pressing it to take the shape of the mold. This will be the bottom of your waffle ball.
Step 3: Layer the Goodness
Add a spoonful of mac and cheese into the waffle bowl. Then place a cooked chicken tender right in the center. Sprinkle on shredded cheddar cheese for a gooey core, and top with a little more mac and cheese to seal in the flavors.
Step 4: Cap it Off
Place another waffle on top to create a complete dome shape. Press it down gently so the top waffle adheres to the bottom and holds everything together.
Step 5: Remove and Seal
Carefully remove the filled waffle ball from the mold. Use your hands to gently press and seal the edges if needed.
Step 6: Deep Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the waffle ball into the oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3–5 minutes. Turn it occasionally to ensure even browning.
Step 7: Drain and Cool
Remove the ball from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Drizzle honey over the top while it’s still hot. Add a few drops of hot sauce if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Recipe Variations
Want to customize this dish? Here are some ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Use spicy chicken tenders or add jalapeños inside.
- Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or a smoky gouda for unique flavor.
- Breakfast Style: Add scrambled eggs and bacon bits for a morning version.
- Mini Bites: Use mini waffles and cut chicken into smaller pieces for party-sized versions.
- Baked Version: Air fry or bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 8–10 minutes until golden if you want to skip deep frying.
Serving Suggestions
These Chicken and Waffle Balls are delicious on their own but even better with the right sides or dips:
- Serve with syrup, ranch dressing, or spicy mayo.
- Pair with coleslaw, potato wedges, or a green salad.
- Set up a DIY bar for guests to add their favorite toppings or dips.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Air fry or bake at 375°F until crispy again. Avoid microwaving to keep the exterior crisp.
FAQs
Can I use homemade waffles?
Absolutely! Just make sure they’re small and sturdy enough to hold their shape.
What kind of chicken works best?
Breaded and crispy chicken tenders are ideal, but you can use grilled or shredded chicken if you prefer.
Can I prep them ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the balls and store them in the fridge. Fry just before serving for best texture.
What oil is best for frying?
Canola or vegetable oil works great due to their high smoke points.
Perfect for Social Media and Parties
These golden waffle balls aren’t just delicious — they’re visually stunning. That waffle texture, crispy outside, and cheesy pull when you bite in makes them perfect for food photography, reels, TikToks, and going viral! If you’re a food blogger or content creator, this is a showstopper recipe worth sharing.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re craving a unique brunch dish or want to wow your guests with something creative, these Chicken and Waffle Balls with Mac & Cheese are the answer. They combine comfort food classics into one unforgettable bite. The crunch of the waffle, the gooeyness of cheese, the creaminess of mac, and the crisp chicken all wrapped up and drizzled with honey — it’s a flavor bomb you’ll come back to again and again.
So grab your waffles, heat up that oil, and treat yourself to a homemade version of one of the internet’s most mouthwatering food mashups!
