Chicken Waffle Casserole

Featured in breakfast-brunch.

Oh my friend, you absolutely HAVE to try this incredible chicken and waffle casserole! Just look at those golden, crispy edges and the way the maple syrup glistens over every bite. The combination of tender, juicy chicken pieces nestled between fluffy waffle chunks is pure breakfast heaven. I can practically smell the amazing aroma wafting from your kitchen already! The fresh rosemary on top adds such a beautiful aromatic touch that'll make your whole house smell like a gourmet brunch spot. Trust me, once you make this showstopper, your family will be begging you to make it every weekend. It's comfort food at its absolute finest!

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Updated on Sat, 28 Jun 2025 20:39:28 GMT
Golden chicken and waffle casserole with fresh herbs and crispy edges on white plate pin it
Golden chicken and waffle casserole with fresh herbs and crispy edges on white plate | lonerecipes.com

I first discovered this amazing recipe during a particularly hectic Sunday morning when I had leftover fried chicken from the night before and a stack of frozen waffles that needed using up. What started as a creative way to use leftovers turned into one of my family's most requested dishes. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity - you're essentially creating a savory bread pudding using waffles as your base. The chicken adds protein and heartiness, while the eggs and milk create that custardy texture that makes every bite incredibly satisfying. I love how the top gets golden and slightly crispy while the inside stays tender and creamy. The maple syrup isn't just for serving - I actually mix some into the custard base for that authentic chicken and waffle flavor throughout.

Why I love this recipe

What I absolutely adore about this recipe is how it transforms simple, everyday ingredients into something truly extraordinary. There's something magical about the way the sweet and savory elements play together - it's like having the best diner breakfast elevated to restaurant quality. I love that I can prepare it the night before for those busy mornings when I want something special without the stress. The versatility is incredible too - sometimes I add a little hot sauce for kick, or throw in some green onions for freshness. But most of all, I love how it brings people together around the table. There's something about this dish that makes everyone slow down, savor each bite, and actually talk to each other instead of rushing off to start their day. It's comfort food that creates comfort moments.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

  • Cooked Chicken Breast: Dice into bite-sized pieces for even distribution
  • Frozen Waffles: Cut into chunks while still frozen for easier handling
  • Large Eggs: Beat well to create smooth custard base
  • Whole Milk: Use at room temperature for better mixing
  • Cheddar Cheese: Shred fresh for better melting
  • Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for best flavor
  • Fresh Rosemary: Chop finely to release aromatic oils

Let's Make These Together

Prepare Your Base
Start by preheating your oven and greasing your baking dish. This ensures everything is ready when you need it. Cut your frozen waffles into chunks while they're still frozen - they'll cut cleaner this way and won't get mushy.
Layer the Foundation
Arrange your waffle chunks in the baking dish first, creating an even layer. Then distribute your diced chicken over the waffles. This layering technique ensures every bite has the perfect ratio of waffle to chicken.
Create the Custard
Whisk your eggs thoroughly with the milk, maple syrup, and seasonings. The key is to get a smooth, well-combined mixture that will create that perfect custardy texture when baked.
Assembly and Baking
Pour your custard mixture evenly over the waffle and chicken layers, then top with cheese and fresh rosemary. The foil covering helps cook the custard evenly before browning the top.
Recipe picture pin it
Mouth-watering chicken waffle casserole garnished with fresh rosemary and golden brown finish | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

I'll never forget the first time I made this casserole for my family's Sunday brunch. I was looking for something different from our usual pancake routine, and this recipe came to me like a lightning bolt of inspiration. The kids were skeptical at first - chicken for breakfast? But once they took that first bite, their eyes lit up like Christmas morning. Now it's become our go-to dish for special occasions. I love how the waffles soak up all those delicious flavors while still maintaining their texture. The smell alone gets everyone out of bed faster than any alarm clock ever could!

Perfect Pairings

This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit salad to balance the richness, or a side of crispy bacon for those who want to go all-in on indulgence. A glass of fresh orange juice or a warm cup of coffee complements the maple flavors perfectly. For a more sophisticated brunch, try serving it alongside a light arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

Homemade breakfast casserole featuring tender chicken pieces and waffle chunks with maple syrup pin it
Homemade breakfast casserole featuring tender chicken pieces and waffle chunks with maple syrup | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, cover with foil, and add about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time since you're starting from cold.

→ What type of chicken works best?

Any cooked chicken works well - leftover fried chicken, rotisserie chicken, or freshly cooked chicken breast. Just make sure it's already cooked and diced into bite-sized pieces for even distribution.

→ Can I use fresh waffles instead of frozen?

Yes, but frozen waffles actually work better because they hold their shape better when cut and don't get as soggy. If using fresh waffles, let them cool completely first and cut them carefully.

→ How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is ready when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs. The custard should be set but still slightly jiggly in the very center.

→ What can I substitute for maple syrup?

While maple syrup gives the authentic chicken and waffle flavor, you can substitute with honey, pancake syrup, or even a mixture of brown sugar and a little vanilla extract. However, pure maple syrup really is the best choice for flavor.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish covered in a 350°F oven until warmed through. The texture is best when reheated in the oven.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Waffle Casserole brings together the best of both worlds in one incredible dish. It's perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or any time you want to treat your family to something special. The combination of savory chicken and sweet waffles creates a flavor profile that's both comforting and exciting. Make it ahead for easy entertaining or whip it up fresh for an unforgettable breakfast experience.

Chicken Waffle Casserole

A hearty breakfast casserole combining crispy chicken pieces with fluffy waffles, baked to golden perfection and drizzled with maple syrup.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
45 Minutes
Total Time
65 Minutes
By: chris

Category: breakfast-brunch

Difficulty: easy

Cuisine: American South

Yield: 8 Servings (8 balls)

Dietary: Meat, Dairy

Ingredients

013 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
028 frozen waffles, cut into chunks
036 large eggs
042 cups whole milk
051½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
06¼ cup maple syrup
072 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
08Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 02

Cut the frozen waffles into bite-sized chunks and layer them in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Distribute the diced chicken evenly over the waffle pieces.

Step 03

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the waffle and chicken layers.

Step 04

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the chopped fresh rosemary.

Step 05

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Step 06

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Drizzle with additional maple syrup and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if desired.

Notes

  1. You can prepare this casserole the night before - just cover and refrigerate, then bake in the morning (add 10 extra minutes to cooking time if baking from cold).
  2. Leftover fried chicken works wonderfully in this recipe, or you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  3. For extra flavor, try using different flavored waffles like buttermilk or blueberry.
  4. The casserole is done when a knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.

Tools You'll Need

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Aluminum foil
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Eggs
  • Dairy (milk and cheese)
  • Gluten (waffles)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 485
  • Total Fat: 28 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 35 g
  • Protein: 32 g

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