Creating Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles is straightforward if you follow these steps:

For the Fried Chicken:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken pieces and ensure they are fully submerged. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for even better flavor.
2. Prepare the Dredging Mixture: In another bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure an even coating.
4. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to cover about half of each chicken piece.
5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place coated chicken pieces in the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each piece for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain and Rest: Once cooked, transfer chicken to a wire rack to drain excess oil and rest.

For the Waffles:

1. Prepare the Waffle Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat eggs and then add milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Combine Mixtures: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter may be lumpy, which is perfectly fine.
4. Preheat Waffle Iron: While the batter sits, preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Cook Waffles: Pour the appropriate amount of batter onto the preheated waffle iron and cook until golden brown, typically 3-5 minutes.

Assemble the Dish:

1. Plate the Waffles: Place one waffle on a plate and top it with a piece of fried chicken.
2. Add Toppings: Drizzle generously with warm maple syrup and add a dollop of butter if desired.
3. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles while they’re hot!