Name: Pear Butter Chicken And Waffles
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Pear Butter:; 3 Bartlett pears; ½ cup water; ½ tbsp Cinnamon; ½ tsp ground nutmeg; ¼ tsp ground allspice; ¼ tsp ground cloves; ¾ cup sugar; Waffles:; 2 cups all purpose flour; ½ cup sugar; ¼ tsp kosher salt; 4 tsp baking powder; ½ cup Vegetable Oil; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; Nonstick cooking spray; Whipped Cream:; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp Cinnamon; 1½ tbsp powdered sugar; fresh mint sprig; Chicken:; 6 cups neutral oil; 4 chicken breasts; 1½ tsp lemon pepper; 1½ tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp Ac’cent® seasoning

Indulge in a unique fusion of sweet and savory flavors with pear butter chicken and waffles. This recipe takes a classic comfort food to another level by adding a homemade pear butter for a hint of sweetness. The tender, juicy chicken perfectly complements the crisp waffles, and the pear butter adds a touch of sophistication that will surely impress your guests.

Photos of Pear Butter Chicken And Waffles

Pears, especially bartlett pears, and the spice ac'cent seasoning may not be commonly available in some kitchens. These are key ingredients for this recipe, hence, it would be best to check your local supermarket if they carry these items. Bartlett pears are known for their juiciness and sweet flavor which makes them excellent for our pear butter. Ac'cent seasoning, on the other hand, is a flavor enhancer that can help amplify the flavors of your chicken.

Pear Butter Chicken and Waffles Ingredients

Bartlett pears: These are used to make homemade pear butter. They're sweet and juicy, perfect for cooking down into a butter.

Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves are combined to give the pear butter a comforting, warm flavor.

All purpose flour: This is used in both the waffles and for coating the chicken. It's a versatile ingredient that's staple in most kitchens.

Baking powder: This helps the waffles rise and become fluffy.

Chicken breasts: These are used as the protein of the dish. They're tender and hold up well against the rich flavors of the dish.

Lemon pepper: This adds a zesty flavor to the chicken, complementing the sweetness of the pear butter.

Ac’cent® seasoning: This is a flavor enhancer used to boost the flavors of the chicken.

One reader, Faun Wall says:

The pear butter chicken and waffles were a delightful surprise! The combination of sweet and savory flavors was a match made in heaven. The pear butter added a unique twist to the dish, and the crispy chicken paired perfectly with the fluffy waffles. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and inventive meal.

Faun Wall

Cooking Techniques for Pear Butter Chicken and Waffles

How to make pear butter: Simmer pears, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and sugar in a saucepan, then mash the pears until they reach a chunky applesauce consistency.

How to make waffles: Whisk together flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, oil, cream, milk, and vanilla, then cook in a preheated waffle iron until golden brown and cooked through.

How to make whipped cream: Whip heavy cream, cinnamon, and powdered sugar with an electric hand mixer until stiff peaks form.

How to fry chicken: Season chicken with lemon pepper, salt, and ac’cent seasoning, dredge in flour, then fry in hot oil until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

How to assemble pear butter chicken and waffles: Cut waffles into triangles, top with pear butter, fried chicken strips, and a dollop of whipped cream, then garnish with a sprig of mint.

How To Make Pear Butter Chicken And Waffles

Make a satisfying meal with the sweet, savory, and golden pair of chicken and waffles. It’s served with spiced, chunky pear butter to complete the dish.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 55 minutes

Total: 1 hour 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

Pear Butter:

3Bartlett pears,cored, and cut into ½ inch cubes
½cupwater
½tbspcinnamon
½tspground nutmeg
¼tspground allspice
¼tspground cloves
¾cupsugar

Waffles:

2cupsall purpose flour
½cupsugar
¼tspkosher salt
4tspbaking powder
½cupvegetable oil
½cupheavy cream
1cupmilk
1tbspvanilla extract
2largeeggs,beaten
nonstick cooking spray,for greasing

Whipped Cream:

1cupheavy cream
1tspcinnamon
1½tbsppowdered sugar
fresh mint sprig,for garnish

Chicken:

6cupsneutral oil,such as vegetable oil, for frying
4chicken breasts,boneless, skinless, cut into 2 inch wide strips
1½tsplemon pepper
1½tspkosher salt
1tspAc’cent® seasoning
1½cupsall purpose flour

Instructions

Pear Butter:

Add the pears, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and sugar to a medium saucepan and stir to coat the pears.
Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally until the peas are tender.
Remove the pot from the heat. Using a potato masher, mash the pears until broken down to the consistency of chunky applesauce. Set aside.

Waffles:

Preheat a waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, oil, cream, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Mix in the beaten eggs.
Ladle a scant ½ cup of the waffle batter per waffle into the preheated waffle iron. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Repeat with the remaining batter. Keep the waffles warm in a low-heated oven until ready to use.

Whipped Cream:

Add the heavy cream, cinnamon, and powdered sugar to a large bowl. Whip with an electric hand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Chicken:

Heat the vegetable oil in a large, high-walled skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350 degrees F.
In a large bowl, season the chicken with the lemon pepper, salt, and Ac’cent seasoning, tossing to coat well. Add the flour to a medium bowl. Dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Working in batches, gently lower the chicken into the hot oil and fry for 6 to 8 minutes until golden brown or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
Remove from the oil using tongs or a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain while frying the remaining chicken.
Cut the waffles into triangles and arrange 3 on each plate. Top with 2 tablespoons of pear butter, 3 fried chicken strips, and a dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with a sprig of mint.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 4711.16kcal
Fat: 422.28g
Saturated Fat: 54.55g
Trans Fat: 1.70g
Monounsaturated Fat: 252.14g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 105.82g
Carbohydrates: 184.62g
Fiber: 9.80g
Sugar: 85.39g
Protein: 55.79g
Cholesterol: 332.73mg
Sodium: 1410.54mg
Calcium: 583.46mg
Potassium: 916.54mg
Iron: 9.49mg
Vitamin A: 502.37µg
Vitamin C: 8.45mg

Expert Advice for Perfecting This Recipe

When making the pear butter, it's important to mash the pears to the consistency of chunky applesauce. This will ensure that the butter has a spreadable consistency, while still retaining some of the pear's natural texture. If you prefer a smoother butter, you can use a blender or food processor to puree the mixture instead. Just be sure to let it cool slightly before blending to avoid steam build-up.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Dish

Prep ahead: Make the pear butter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This will save time when you're ready to make the chicken and waffles.

Double batch: Consider making extra waffles and pear butter to freeze for future use. This way, you'll have a quick and delicious meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Organized workspace: Before you start cooking, make sure your kitchen workspace is organized and all the necessary ingredients and tools are easily accessible. This will streamline the cooking process and save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Pear Butter Chicken And Waffles

Bartlett pears - Substitute with Anjou pears: Anjou pears have a similar sweet and juicy flavor to Bartlett pears, making them a suitable substitute for pear butter.
Heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream, adding a rich and creamy texture to the recipe.
All-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: This substitution is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies, providing a gluten-free option for the waffle batter.
Vegetable oil - Substitute with melted coconut oil: Melted coconut oil can be used as a healthier alternative to vegetable oil, adding a subtle coconut flavor to the waffle batter.
Chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts can be used as a leaner alternative to chicken, offering a similar texture and flavor profile for the dish.

Plating Ideas for Pear Butter Chicken and Waffles

Elevate the waffles: Cut the waffles into elegant triangles and arrange them on the plate with precision, ensuring they are visually appealing and inviting.
Artful pear butter drizzle: Use a squeeze bottle to create a delicate and artistic drizzle of the pear butter on the plate, adding a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Golden fried chicken strips: Arrange the golden brown fried chicken strips on the plate in a way that showcases their crispy texture and appetizing appearance.
Whipped cream dollop: Place a perfectly quenelle-shaped dollop of the cinnamon-infused whipped cream on the plate, adding a luxurious and creamy element to the dish.
Garnish with a mint sprig: Carefully place a fresh mint sprig on the plate, adding a pop of vibrant green color and a refreshing aroma to the overall presentation.
Balance and symmetry: Ensure that the elements on the plate are arranged with balance and symmetry, creating a visually harmonious and aesthetically pleasing composition.
Use of negative space: Embrace the use of negative space on the plate to allow the components of the dish to stand out and be the focal point of the presentation.
Attention to detail: Pay meticulous attention to every detail, from the placement of the components to the cleanliness of the plate, to demonstrate a high level of culinary finesse and professionalism.
Minimalist elegance: Embrace a minimalist approach to the presentation, allowing the simplicity of the dish to speak for itself while exuding an air of refined elegance.
Plate as a work of art: Treat the plate as a canvas and the components of the dish as artistic elements, creating a visually stunning and memorable presentation that reflects culinary artistry.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe

Saucepan: A deep cooking vessel with a handle and often a lid, used for cooking sauces, boiling liquids, and simmering ingredients.
Potato masher: A handheld kitchen tool with a broad, flat mashing head, used to crush and mash cooked food items such as potatoes, fruits, or vegetables.
Waffle iron: A kitchen appliance with two hinged metal plates, patterned to give a waffle's characteristic size, shape, and surface impression, used to cook waffles.
Large bowl: A spacious container used for mixing, tossing, and combining ingredients in cooking and baking.
Electric hand mixer: A motorized kitchen tool with beaters or whisk attachments, used to mix, beat, and whip ingredients quickly and efficiently.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan with sloping sides and a long handle, used for frying, searing, and sautéing food items.
High-walled skillet: A skillet with higher sides, designed to contain larger quantities of food and prevent splattering during cooking.
Tongs: A kitchen utensil consisting of two arms joined by a hinge, used for gripping and lifting food items.
Slotted spoon: A spoon with slots or holes, used for lifting and draining foods from liquids or sauces.
Paper towels: Absorbent disposable towels used for drying and draining food items, as well as for cleaning up spills and messes in the kitchen.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Pear Butter Chicken and Waffles

To store leftover pear butter, transfer it to an airtight container or jar and refrigerate for up to 1 week. The pear butter can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Leftover fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and bake at 350°F until heated through and crispy, about 15-20 minutes.
Waffles can be stored in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To freeze, wrap each waffle individually in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable plastic bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, unwrap the frozen waffles and toast in a toaster or toaster oven until heated through and crispy.
Leftover whipped cream can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the cream begins to separate or lose its texture, simply whisk it again until smooth before using.
To reheat and serve leftovers, warm the pear butter in a saucepan over low heat until heated through. Toast the waffles until crispy, and reheat the fried chicken as directed above. Assemble the dish as desired, topping the waffles with pear butter, fried chicken, and a dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint, if desired.

Reheating Leftover Pear Butter Chicken and Waffles

To reheat leftover pear butter chicken and waffles, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the food is heated through without drying out or becoming overcooked.
Place the waffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If the waffles are soggy, you can place them directly on the oven rack to help them crisp up. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
For the fried chicken, place the pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows the hot air to circulate around the chicken, helping it to retain its crispiness. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the coating is crispy.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can use the microwave to reheat the pear butter and chicken. Place the pear butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it is heated through.
To microwave the chicken, place the pieces on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels. Heat in 30-second intervals, flipping the chicken between each interval, until it is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as this can cause the coating to become soggy.
Once the waffles, chicken, and pear butter are heated through, assemble the dish by placing the waffles on a plate, topping them with the pear butter and chicken, and finishing with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprig of fresh mint.
If you have any leftover cinnamon whipped cream, you can easily refresh it by giving it a quick whisk or beating it with an electric mixer until it returns to its original fluffy texture.

Interesting Trivia About Pear Butter Chicken and Waffles

Pear butter is a versatile spread that can be used in various recipes, such as on toast, in pastries, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles. It adds a unique and delicious flavor to dishes and is a great way to enjoy the natural sweetness of pears.

Budget-Friendly: Making Pear Butter Chicken and Waffles at Home

The cost-effectiveness of this pear butter chicken and waffles recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients in your area. While the dish features a combination of relatively affordable staples like flour, sugar, and chicken, the inclusion of pear and heavy cream may increase the overall cost. Additionally, the use of spices and vegetable oil should be factored in. Considering the potential variation in ingredient prices, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people could range from $25 to $35. As for the verdict, this unique fusion dish earns a solid 8 for its creativity and flavor combination.

Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The pear butter chicken and waffles recipe, while indulgent and flavorful, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

High in fat: The recipe uses a significant amount of oil for frying the chicken and making the waffles, as well as heavy cream in the waffles and whipped cream topping.
Refined carbohydrates: The waffles are made with all-purpose flour and sugar, which are refined carbohydrates that can cause blood sugar spikes and contribute to weight gain.
Added sugars: The pear butter and whipped cream contain added sugars, which can lead to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues when consumed in excess.
Deep-fried chicken: Deep-frying the chicken adds extra fat and calories to the dish, making it less healthy than other cooking methods like baking or grilling.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the waffles.
Reduce the amount of sugar in the pear butter and whipped cream, or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in moderation.
Instead of deep-frying the chicken, try baking or air-frying it with a light coating of breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for a crispy texture with less fat.
Use a healthier oil like avocado oil or coconut oil for cooking the waffles and chicken, and reduce the amount of oil used overall.
Serve the dish with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad to add more nutrients and balance out the meal.
Opt for a lower-fat alternative to heavy cream in the waffles and whipped cream, such as Greek yogurt or coconut milk.

Our Editor's Opinion on This Unique Recipe

The combination of sweet and savory in this recipe is truly innovative. The pear butter adds a unique and delightful twist to the classic chicken and waffles dish. The waffles are perfectly fluffy and complement the crispy fried chicken beautifully. The addition of whipped cream with a hint of cinnamon adds a touch of indulgence. Overall, this dish is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is sure to impress and delight anyone who tries it.

Enhance Your Pear Butter Chicken And Waffles with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the savory chicken and sweet pear butter.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon zest, adding a refreshing and vibrant side to the dish.

Cranberry Orange Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing quinoa salad with bursts of cranberry and citrus flavors, providing a healthy and flavorful accompaniment to the meal.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoyed This Dish

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is perfect for a cozy night in. The tender beef, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth will warm you up from the inside out.

Citrus Glazed Salmon: This zesty and refreshing salmon dish is perfect for a light and healthy dinner. The tangy citrus glaze pairs perfectly with the tender and flaky salmon fillets.

Mango Coconut Rice Pudding: Indulge in this creamy and tropical dessert that combines the sweetness of mango with the richness of coconut. It's a delightful way to end any meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Pear Butter Chicken and Waffles

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in the creamy and cheesy goodness of this spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips for dipping. A crowd-pleasing appetizer that will leave everyone wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a decadent and velvety smooth chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The rich and creamy texture will melt in your mouth with every spoonful, leaving you craving for more.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and a sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. Each bite will remind you of cozy autumn days and holiday gatherings.

Why trust this Pear Butter Chicken And Waffles:

This recipe offers a unique twist on a classic dish, combining the sweetness of pear butter with the savory crunch of fried chicken and the comforting warmth of homemade waffles. The use of fresh Bartlett pears and a blend of warm spices ensures a burst of flavor in every bite. The step-by-step instructions and attention to detail in the preparation process demonstrate a commitment to quality and delicious results. Trust the combination of sweet, savory, and indulgent flavors to elevate your dining experience.

Share your thoughts on Pear Butter Chicken And Waffles in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how you'd put your own spin on this unique dish!

FAQ:

What can I use as a substitute for pear butter if I can't find it?

If you can't find pear butter, you can substitute it with applesauce or apple butter for a similar flavor and texture.

Can I make the pear butter in advance?

Yes, you can make the pear butter in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Can I use a different type of fruit for the butter?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different fruits like apples, peaches, or even apricots to create a unique fruit butter to pair with the chicken and waffles.

Can I use a store-bought waffle mix instead of making the waffles from scratch?

Yes, you can use a store-bought waffle mix if you prefer. Just follow the instructions on the package to make the waffles.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

While the recipe calls for frying the chicken, you can certainly bake it as an alternative. Simply coat the seasoned chicken with breadcrumbs and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.