Waffle House Chicken Melt Recipe

Want a way to enjoy a Waffle House favorite at home?

This Waffle House chicken melt recipe is perfect for satisfying your most savory cravings.

You’ll love the combination of juicy grilled chicken and melted cheddar cheese.

Don’t rush the grilling process – allowing the chicken to cook slowly enhances its tenderness and flavor.

With a few simple steps, you’ll recreate this meal right in your kitchen without too much fuss!

How to Make a Waffle House Chicken Melt

Ingredients

• 2 Chicken Breasts
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 4 slices Texas Toast
• 4 slices American Cheese
• 1 tsp Butter (for toasting)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your griddle or skillet over medium heat.

Add olive oil to coat the surface.

Step 2:

In a bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and onion powder.

Rub this spice mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts.

Step 3:

Place the seasoned chicken on the griddle.

Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes or until fully cooked.

Step 4:

While the chicken is cooking, toast the Texas toast on the griddle with a light coating of butter.

Let each side turn a golden brown.

Step 5:

When the chicken is nearly done, place American cheese slices on each breast to melt.

Layer the chicken and cheese between the toasted bread slices.

Serve immediately.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Perfect Toasting

Make sure to butter the bread lightly to get a nice golden crust without making the bread soggy.

Spice Adjustments

Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste.

A pinch of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Cheese Melting

If the cheese isn’t melting fast enough, cover the skillet briefly with a lid.

This traps the heat and helps the cheese melt smoothly.

Cooking Evenly

Pound the chicken breasts slightly if they’re too thick.

This ensures they cook evenly across the surface.

Experiment with Bread

Try different types of bread, such as sourdough or whole grain, if you want to experiment with taste and texture.

What to Serve with Waffle House Chicken Melt

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes always go perfectly alongside a savory chicken melt.

You might find the addition of sour cream to be the secret ingredient that gives them a tangy lift.

This smooth, buttery side complements the juicy chicken perfectly.

Pickled Vegetables

Pickled vegetables add a refreshing, tangy bite to contrast with the richness of the melt.

You can use cucumbers, carrots, or even red onions, marinated for a few hours or overnight.

The acidity really cuts through the flavors and makes each bite feel fresh and exciting.

Coleslaw

A classic choice, coleslaw brings a crunchy texture to your meal.

The creamy dressing and crisp cabbage offer a nice balance to the hearty sandwich.

It’s cool and refreshing, perfect for adding some diversity to your plate.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries offer a fun twist and pair well with the chicken melt’s savory notes.

They bring a nice balance with their natural sweetness and crispy texture.

Try adding a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper for a little extra kick.

Sautéed Spinach

For something a bit different, sautéed spinach can be an excellent side.

Lightly cooked with garlic and olive oil, it brings a fresh, healthy component to the meal.

Plus, it cooks in just minutes, making it a quick and easy addition.

Variations and Substitutions

You can use different types of cheese to give your chicken melt a unique twist.

Try Swiss cheese for a rich and nutty flavor or Monterey Jack for something creamier.

If you prefer a lighter option, opt for whole wheat bread instead of white bread.

Add some avocado slices or grilled mushrooms to enhance the texture and flavor.

Instead of mayonnaise, mix Greek yogurt with a pinch of dill for a tangy sauce.

Try using smoked chicken for a smoky texture that pairs well with spicy mustard.

Vegetarians can swap out the chicken for grilled eggplant or portobello mushrooms.

Spice things up with jalapeño slices or chipotle sauce for a little heat!

If you’re feeling creative, incorporate some pesto or sundried tomato spread for added flair.

The possibilities for this versatile dish are endless, so have fun experimenting!

How to Store Leftover Waffle House Chicken Melt

Storing your leftover Waffle House Chicken Melt properly keeps it tasty and safe to eat!

First, let your chicken melt cool at room temperature before transferring it to the fridge.

Use Airtight Containers

Place the chicken melts in airtight containers to prevent them from drying out.

Good containers help maintain the moisture and flavor of the sandwich.

Refrigeration Time

Your chicken melt should be refrigerated and consumed within three days.

This limit ensures the best taste and freshness when you enjoy your leftovers.

Freezing for Longer Storage

You can also freeze your chicken melts if you want to keep them longer.

Wrap each sandwich tightly in aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.

They can be stored in the freezer for up to two months, making them last for a good while!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Rushing the Marination Process

You might be tempted to skip or rush the marination, but that’s a mistake.

Giving the chicken enough time in the marinade—ideally a few hours—helps infuse flavors.

Overcrowding the Griddle

It’s important to avoid putting too much chicken on the griddle at once.

Cooking in batches allows each piece to get even heat and caramelize nicely.

Ignoring the Right Heat Setting

Cooking at too high a temperature can make your chicken dry or burnt.

Keep the heat to medium to ensure the chicken remains juicy and cooks evenly.