Welcome to a culinary adventure that takes the beloved classic of chicken and waffles and elevates it to an unforgettable brunch experience. Prepare your taste buds for the utterly delightful Potato Chip Crusted Chicken Meatball and Waffle Bites – a truly innovative and incredibly tasty twist that promises to be the star of your next brunch menu. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, these bites combine savory chicken meatballs with a delightful crunch, perfectly complemented by sweet, fluffy waffle bites.
As we navigate the unpredictable whims of transitional seasons, whether it’s the lingering chill of winter giving way to spring’s fleeting warmth, or the anticipation of summer’s arrival, our cravings often shift. One moment you’re enjoying a crisp, sunny day, perhaps jogging through a park, feeling the lightness of the air. The next, an unexpected cold snap or even a late-season snowfall reminds us that nature plays by its own rules. This meteorological inconsistency can be a bit trying, especially when all you crave is the steady promise of warmer days and outdoor living. But while we patiently wait for the consistent warmth of spring and the glorious sunshine of summer, there’s one thing that consistently brings comfort and joy: delicious food, especially when shared with loved ones.
And what better way to celebrate the promise of new seasons, or simply to gather friends and family, than with a spectacular brunch? Forget the traditional for a moment, because we need to talk about these Potato Chip Crusted Chicken Meatball and Waffle Bites. You know the irresistible combination of chicken and waffles, but sometimes it’s fun to add a little flair, a surprising element that transforms a familiar favorite into something extraordinary. This recipe is exactly that – a creative and incredibly satisfying upgrade that will have everyone asking for more.
The secret to the unparalleled crunch and flavor of these chicken meatballs lies in their unique coating: crushed Sea Salt Potato Chips. But not just any potato chips. We’re talking about the exceptional quality chips from Jackson’s Honest, an inspiring company deeply committed to using only real, wholesome ingredients. In an era where ingredient lists often read like a chemistry textbook, Jackson’s Honest stands out with an admirable simplicity. Their original potato chips are crafted with just three core ingredients: potatoes, organic coconut oil, and a touch of salt. When was the last time you picked up a bag of chips and saw such a refreshingly short and transparent list? This commitment to purity ensures a clean, authentic potato flavor that truly shines through in our crispy chicken meatballs.
Jackson’s Honest isn’t just known for its incredible potato chips; they offer a delightful smorgasbord that includes equally fantastic tortilla chips. What truly sets this company apart, however, is not just their dedication to simple ingredients, but their profoundly moving origin story. We highly encourage you to take a moment to read about Jackson and his health journey. It’s a testament to the power of nutrition and the profound impact that real, homemade food can have on one’s life. Their story is a powerful reminder that healthy eating is not only possible but can be truly life-changing, inspiring us all to make more mindful choices in our own kitchens.
The decision to incorporate these premium Sea Salt Potato Chips from Jackson’s Honest into our Potato Chip Crusted Chicken Meatball and Waffle Bites is a game-changer. The fine, crunchy coating adds an irresistible texture and a subtle salty note that perfectly complements the savory chicken. This ingenious crust keeps the meatballs moist and tender inside while delivering a satisfying crispness with every bite. To get your hands on these incredible chips and experience the difference yourself, check out Jackson’s Honest store locator. Seriously, don’t say we didn’t warn you. Once you taste the authentic flavor and satisfying crunch of a Jackson’s Honest chip, your perspective on snacks (and maybe even brunch) will never be the same. You might just find yourself hosting brunch every weekend, eager to share these incredible creations with everyone you know.
These Potato Chip Crusted Chicken Meatball and Waffle Bites are not just a meal; they’re an experience. They offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors – the crispy, savory meatballs meeting the warm, fluffy, slightly sweet waffle. This harmonious blend makes them ideal for any brunch spread, appealing to both adults and children. Imagine a platter of these golden-brown bites, adorned with fresh chives and a drizzle of maple syrup, ready to be devoured. They’re perfectly portioned for easy serving, making them a fantastic option for parties or casual get-togethers. The savory-sweet combination is a classic for a reason, and this recipe takes it to a new level of deliciousness and fun.
Making these brunch bites is straightforward, ensuring that even a busy morning won’t deter you from creating a memorable meal. The process involves crafting the flavorful chicken meatballs, coating them generously in crushed potato chips, browning them to lock in moisture and flavor, and then baking them to perfection. Simultaneously, you’ll whip up a simple yet delicious waffle batter to create light, airy waffle bites. The assembly is as enjoyable as the eating: a warm waffle bite, topped with a crispy chicken meatball, a sprinkle of fresh chives, and a generous drizzle of maple syrup. The result is a symphony of flavors and textures that truly embodies the spirit of a gourmet, yet approachable, brunch.
So, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a weekend gathering, or simply want to treat yourself to a creative and satisfying meal, these Potato Chip Crusted Chicken Meatball and Waffle Bites are your answer. They’re a testament to how simple, quality ingredients and a touch of culinary imagination can transform everyday dishes into something truly extraordinary. Get ready to impress your guests and delight your family with this fantastic fusion dish that redefines the joy of chicken and waffles.
***This post is sponsored by Jackson’s Honest. As always, all opinions expressed are 100% my own.***
Potato Chip Crusted Chicken Meatball and Waffle Bites
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
for the chicken meatballs:
1 lb ground chicken
1 large egg
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon maple syrup
1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 cups Jackson’s Honest Sea Salt Potato Chips, crushed finely
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
Fresh chives, garnish
for the waffles:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 cups whole milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Maple syrup, garnish
Directions:
for the chicken meatballs:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, cayenne pepper, maple syrup, panko, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Form the chicken mixture into eight, one-inch sized meatballs. Next, pour the finely crushed potato chips into a separate large bowl or shallow dish. Take each meatball and roll it around in the crushed chips, making sure it’s evenly and thoroughly coated on all sides. Continue this process with the remaining meatballs.
Preheat a large skillet to medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs (four at a time, if needed, to avoid overcrowding) to the skillet and brown them evenly on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Browning creates a delicious crust and helps seal in juices. Place the browned meatballs on a baking sheet that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Repeat this process until all meatballs have been browned. Transfer the baking sheet with the meatballs into the preheated oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
To serve, take a waffle bite and place it on a serving plate. Top the waffle with one of the cooked chicken meatballs. Garnish the top of the chicken meatball with fresh chopped chives for color and a hint of oniony freshness, and drizzle generously with maple syrup to balance the savory flavors. Continue this assembly process until all meatballs have been used. You will likely have leftover waffles, which can be enjoyed on their own or with other toppings.
for the waffles:
Preheat a waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients for the waffles: all-purpose flour, large eggs, baking powder, whole milk, melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Whisk until the batter is smooth and well combined, but do not overmix. Add approximately one tablespoon of the waffle batter to the hot waffle iron for each bite, or adjust based on your waffle iron’s size. Cook until golden brown and the waffle iron indicates it is ready (or steam subsides). Lift the lid, and carefully remove each waffle bite. Place the warm waffle bites on a baking sheet and transfer them to a 250 degree F (120 degrees C) oven to keep warm while you cook the remaining batter. Repeat this process until all the waffle batter has been used.
All images and text ©Lauren Grier for The Curious Plate