Hot Honey Chicken & Waffle Breakfast Casserole: A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Brunch Bake

There’s something undeniably satisfying about the marriage of crispy fried chicken, fluffy waffles, and sticky-sweet honey—especially when it’s all baked into a warm, hearty breakfast casserole. This Hot Honey Chicken & Waffle Breakfast Casserole reimagines the beloved Southern combo into a dish that’s rich, crave-worthy, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.

Imagine digging into layers of crunchy chicken and golden waffle pieces soaked in a savory-sweet custard, all baked to perfection and finished with a drizzle of hot honey that adds just the right amount of heat. It’s not just breakfast—it’s a bold, soul-warming experience. This make-ahead casserole delivers big on flavor while letting you enjoy a relaxed morning, whether you’re hosting brunch or just want something special on a weekend.

Each bite gives you a balance of spicy, creamy, and crispy. And the best part? You can prep everything the night before, so you’re just a bake away from a hot, bubbling breakfast that’ll impress your guests and satisfy every appetite at the table.

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Ingredient Breakdown

This casserole comes together with a mix of pantry staples and bold flavors. Each ingredient has a job to do—whether it’s bringing structure, adding heat, or giving that essential breakfast sweetness.

Crispy Chicken Tenders – Using pre-cooked frozen tenders cuts down on time without sacrificing texture. Their crunchy coating holds up beautifully in the oven. Leftover fried chicken or store-bought popcorn chicken are great stand-ins.

Waffles – Belgian-style waffles are ideal thanks to their thick, deep pockets. Toast them before assembly to keep their texture intact after baking. You can use homemade or store-bought—just make sure they’re firm and not soft.

Eggs – Essential for binding everything together and creating that creamy, custard-like texture.

Milk and Cream – A combo of whole milk and heavy cream ensures a tender, rich casserole. Half-and-half can be used in place of both if needed.

Maple Syrup – Adds a warm sweetness that enhances the waffles and balances the spice from the hot honey. Be sure to use real maple syrup for the best flavor.

Hot Honey – The star of the show. Its sweet heat ties the whole dish together. If you don’t have it on hand, mix honey with a little cayenne and vinegar for a similar effect.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese – This gives the dish a salty, melty element that anchors the sweetness. Other cheeses like gouda or Monterey jack can work too.

Seasonings – Salt, pepper, and cayenne give the custard a subtle depth. Feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.

Butter – Brushed over the top before baking, it helps the dish develop a beautifully browned crust and rich flavor.

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How to Make It Step by Step

1. Preheat & Prep
   Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Toast the waffles until they’re just crisp and golden—this keeps them from becoming too soft later. Cut both the waffles and the cooked chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces.

2. Layer the Casserole
   In your prepared dish, layer half of the waffle chunks evenly. Add half of the chopped chicken and then sprinkle on half of the shredded cheddar. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to create two full layers.

3. Whisk the Custard
   In a medium mixing bowl, combine the eggs, milk, cream, maple syrup, and seasonings. Whisk until smooth. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the layered waffles and chicken. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to press everything gently down so it absorbs the liquid.

4. Let It Soak
   Cover the dish tightly with foil and refrigerate for at least one hour—overnight is even better. This step is key for allowing the waffles to soak up the custard.

5. Bake Until Set and Golden
   Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncover, drizzle with melted butter, and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and the center is firm.

6. Add the Finishing Touch
   Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Right before serving, pour warm hot honey across the top. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired for a bit of color and freshness.

What to Avoid:
Don’t skip toasting the waffles—it helps maintain texture. Avoid under-seasoning the custard. Also, be sure to give the dish time to rest both before baking and after, so it holds together nicely when sliced.

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Ideas, Tweaks & Flavor Swaps

Dial Up or Down the Heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne or use plain honey if you prefer a milder version. Add a touch of hot sauce to the custard for extra kick.

Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free waffles and chicken tenders—they’re widely available now and work just as well.

Change Up the Protein: Swap chicken for leftover turkey, sausage crumbles, or even a vegetarian protein like plant-based nuggets.

Add Extra Flavor: Stir caramelized onions or sautéed peppers into the layers. For a smoky twist, add cooked bacon or a few dashes of smoked paprika.

Cheese Alternatives: Swap in a mix of cheeses—smoked cheddar, provolone, or fontina all melt beautifully.

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How to Serve It Best

This breakfast casserole is a natural fit for festive brunch spreads, weekend family breakfasts, or anytime you need a hands-off morning meal. It holds well and slices cleanly, making it perfect for potlucks or holiday mornings.

Balance the rich, savory-sweet flavors by pairing it with fresh fruit, citrus salad, or a side of roasted vegetables. For drinks, try it with iced coffee, sparkling cider, or a tangy mimosa to cut the richness.

It’s hearty enough to serve solo, but you can round out the meal with a light green salad or some crispy breakfast potatoes if you’re feeding a crowd.

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Nutrition Notes

This dish is a filling and indulgent option, offering protein from the chicken and eggs, plus carbs from the waffles to keep you energized. While it’s definitely a treat, you can tweak it for a lighter approach—cut back on cheese, use low-fat milk, or serve smaller portions with a big helping of fruit on the side.

Using quality ingredients lets you control the sodium and sugar levels, and adding vegetables is a great way to sneak in extra nutrients.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Yes—prepping ahead is one of its biggest perks. Just assemble, cover, and refrigerate overnight. It’s ready to bake fresh the next morning, saving you time and stress.

2. Are homemade waffles better than frozen?
They can be! Homemade waffles give you more control over flavor and texture, especially if you make them extra crispy. But frozen ones work great too—just be sure to toast them first.

3. What’s a good substitute for hot honey?
Mix 1/4 cup of regular honey with 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne and a small splash of vinegar or hot sauce. This creates a similar sweet-and-spicy finish that works perfectly.

4. Is this dish really spicy?
Not overly. It has a gentle heat that balances well with the sweetness. You can easily tone it down by using less cayenne or skipping the hot honey drizzle.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! Cool the casserole completely, slice into portions, and wrap tightly. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven to bring back its texture and flavor.

6. How should I reheat this casserole?
For best results, reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer. This helps maintain the crispy edges. You can microwave it in a pinch, but it might turn out softer.

7. Is there a vegetarian alternative?
Definitely. Use crispy meatless tenders, tofu, or seasoned roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or mushrooms. Keep the seasoning bold to maintain that savory balance.

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