Waffle Chicken Fingers

Directions

1. 1
   Make the dipping sauce: Whisk the maple syrup and hot sauce in a bowl.
2. 2
   Make the chicken fingers: Whisk the egg, buttermilk, mustard and 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper in a large bowl.
3. 3
   Add the chicken and toss to coat.
4. 4
   Pulse the waffles in a food processor to make fine crumbs.
5. 5
   Transfer the crumbs to a baking sheet.
6. 6
   Heat 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pot until hot but not smoking.
7. 7
   Remove the chicken from the egg mixture, shaking off any excess, and coat with the waffle crumbs, pressing firmly to adhere.
8. 8
   Fry the chicken in batches, adjusting the heat if necessary, until golden brown and cooked through, about 2 minutes per side.
9. 9
   Transfer to a rack set over a baking sheet to drain.
10. 10
    Serve with the dipping sauce.
11. 11
    Photograph by Ryan Dausch