Photo by Flickr user arnold inuyaki, used under a Creative Commons agreement.

Dish of the Week: Fried Chicken and Waffles

Fried chicken and waffles is a uniquely American food innovation. Like many comfort foods, the exact origin of this fantastic pairing is murky. One account suggests that the dish emerged when Thomas Jefferson brought a waffle iron back from France in the 1790s, where it became popular as a Sunday morning meal in the South. Elsewhere, the dish is said to have first been served at Wells Supper Club in Harlem in the 1930s. Owner Joe Wells supposedly came up with the concept while serving late night diners, including jazz greats Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday, because it was too late for dinner and too early for breakfast.

Whatever the true history may be, anyone who has taken a bite of crispy chicken and syrup-smothered waffle can attest to the beautiful marriage of flavors and textures. It is the perfect food for the indecisive. Can’t decide between breakfast or dinner? Sweet or salty? With fried chicken and waffles, you get it all. This Southern staple can be had at a number of restaurants around town, including Marvin, Creme, and on the late night menu at Oohhs and Aahhs. Did we miss your favorite spot to get this delicious breakfast/dinner hybrid? Let us know in the comments.