Spicy Chicken and Cornmeal Waffle Sandwich

Marinade the chicken: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Pickle Juice (1 cup), Buttermilk (1 cup), Kosher Salt (1 tsp), Montreal Chicken Seasoning (1 tsp) if using, Smoked Paprika (1 tsp), Garlic Powder (1 tsp), and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (1 tsp). Add the Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (2 lb) to the marinade to submerge completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to overnight.

Make the dredge: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the All-Purpose Flour (2 cups), Corn Starch (1/2 cup), Garlic Powder (1 Tbsp), Kosher Salt (2 tsp), Smoked Paprika (2 tsp), and Cayenne Pepper (1/2 tsp). Set aside until ready to fry.

Make the waffle batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Buttermilk (1 cup), melted Butter (1/2 cup), and Large Eggs (2). Add in the All-Purpose Flour (1 1/2 cups), Fine Ground Cornmeal (1/2 cup), Kosher Salt (1 tsp), Baking Powder (1 tsp), and Baking Soda (1/2 tsp) and mix until smooth. Let the batter sit for 20 minutes.

Make the hot maple: In a small saute pan over medium heat, add the Maple Syrup (2 Tbsp) and Sriracha (1 Tbsp) and cook until just beginning to simmer. Keep warm until ready to use.

Fry the chicken: In a large stock pot, heat the Neutral Oil (as needed) to 350°F.

Slowly drizzle in the Buttermilk (4 Tbsp) into the dredge, clumping together small pieces in the palm of your hand. This will help to get those crispy edges. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let the excess liquid drip off. Place the chicken into the dredge and toss to coat completely.

Carefully place the chicken into the oil and fry until golden brown and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken to a wire rack set over a sheet tray and season lightly with salt.

Cook the waffles: Preheat your waffle maker to 350°F and lightly grease with nonstick spray. Pour the batter into the maker and cook until crispy.

Assemble: Place the fried chicken between two waffles, top with Pickle Slices (to taste) and drizzle with the honey maple syrup.