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In recent years, sliders have taken the culinary world by storm, emerging as a favorite among food enthusiasts and casual diners alike. These bite-sized sandwiches are not only easy to manage but also versatile, allowing for a myriad of flavor combinations. One recipe that stands out in this growing trend is the Mini Waffle Chicken Ranch Sliders. This unique twist on traditional sliders combines crispy fried chicken with fluffy waffles and a creamy ranch sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience that is both satisfying and fun.

Mini Waffle Chicken Ranch Sliders

Discover the tasty world of Mini Waffle Chicken Ranch Sliders, where crispy fried chicken meets fluffy waffles and creamy ranch sauce for a flavor-packed bite. These sliders are perfect for gatherings, game day, or a fun family meal. With a simple recipe focusing on quality ingredients, you can whip up these delicious sliders easily. Combining sweet and savory elements, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone at your table. Get ready to impress your guests!
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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 breadcrumbs (panko preferred 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 bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, making sure they are fully submerged, and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight in the fridge for better flavor).

      Bread the Chicken:

        - In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, place the breadcrumbs. Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge in flour, followed by a dip back in the buttermilk, and finally coating in breadcrumbs. Set aside.

          Cook the Chicken:

            - Heat about ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in batches and fry each piece for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

              Make the Waffles:

                - While the chicken is frying, in a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Combine both mixtures until just combined (do not overmix). Preheat a waffle maker according to manufacturer's instructions.

                  - Cook the waffle batter in the waffle maker until golden and crisp. Keep warm in a low oven while you cook the rest.

                    Prepare the Ranch Sauce:

                      - In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, and ranch seasoning until smooth. Stir in chopped chives if using.

                        Assemble the Sliders:

                          - Cut each waffle in half to create a top and bottom. Take one waffle half, add a piece of fried chicken, a dollop of ranch sauce, and a few pieces of lettuce. Top with the other half of the waffle.

                            - Add pickles if desired for an extra crunch and flavor. Repeat until all sliders are assembled.

                              Serve and Enjoy:

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

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