Save I was standing in my kitchen the day after Thanksgiving, staring at containers of leftovers, when the waffle iron caught my eye. What if stuffing could become something crispy, golden, and completely unexpected? That first batch came out so perfectly browned and savory that I knew I had stumbled onto something worth repeating. The idea of turning them into sliders came later, when I realized they were sturdier than any bun I had ever used.
I brought these to a potluck once, and my friend swore I had reinvented comfort food. She kept asking how I got the waffles so crispy on the outside while keeping them tender inside. The truth is, the waffle iron does most of the work. You just have to trust the process and resist opening it too early.
Ingredients
- Prepared stuffing: This is the foundation, and whether you use homemade or boxed, make sure it is well-seasoned because the flavor carries through every bite.
- Eggs: They bind the stuffing mixture so it holds its shape in the waffle iron without falling apart.
- Chicken broth: A small amount keeps the mixture moist and adds a savory depth that plain water cannot match.
- Melted butter: It enriches the waffles and helps them crisp up beautifully on the hot iron.
- Shredded chicken breast: Use rotisserie chicken to save time, or poach your own if you prefer control over seasoning.
- Dried thyme: A subtle herb that complements the stuffing without overpowering the delicate chicken.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the sauce that ties everything together with richness.
- Whole berry cranberry sauce: This adds texture and a festive sweetness that feels nostalgic and fresh at the same time.
- Dijon mustard: A tiny bit cuts through the richness and gives the mayo a gentle tang.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the sauce and keeps it from feeling too heavy.
- Baby arugula or spinach: Optional, but the peppery greens add a welcome contrast to the warm, savory filling.
Instructions
- Preheat and prep the waffle iron:
- Set it to medium-high and coat the plates lightly with nonstick spray so the waffles release cleanly. Do not skip this step, or you will be scraping bits off the iron later.
- Mix the stuffing batter:
- Combine the stuffing, eggs, chicken broth, and melted butter in a large bowl until everything is evenly moistened. The mixture should hold together when pressed but not feel wet or soupy.
- Cook the waffles:
- Scoop about one-third cup of the mixture onto the waffle iron and close the lid gently. Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes without peeking, until the waffle is golden and crisp on the outside.
- Warm the chicken filling:
- Toss the shredded chicken with broth, thyme, black pepper, and salt in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it just until warmed through, stirring once to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Make the cranberry mayo:
- Whisk together the mayonnaise, cranberry sauce, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Assemble the sliders:
- Spread a thin layer of cranberry mayo on one waffle, add a generous spoonful of warm chicken, and top with a few greens if you like. Cap it with another waffle and press gently.
- Serve immediately:
- These are best enjoyed warm, when the waffles are still crispy and the chicken is tender and fragrant.
Save The first time I served these at a family gathering, my nephew asked if he could have them for his birthday instead of cake. I laughed, but he was serious. There is something about the way the cranberry mayo soaks into the warm waffle that makes every bite feel like a celebration.
Making This Your Own
Swap the chicken for shredded turkey if you want a more traditional holiday vibe, or use pulled pork for something completely different. I have also added a thin slice of melted brie on top of the chicken, and it was dangerously good. If you are feeling adventurous, try mixing a little crumbled bacon into the stuffing batter before cooking.
Storage and Reheating
These sliders are best eaten fresh, but you can store the components separately in the fridge for up to two days. Keep the waffles in an airtight container and reheat them in a toaster oven at 350 degrees for about 5 minutes to bring back the crispness. The chicken and cranberry mayo can be warmed or served cold, depending on your preference.
What to Serve Alongside
I like to keep things simple and serve these with a light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or a handful of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potato wedges. If you are making them for a party, set out a tray of pickles, olives, and chips so people can graze while the sliders disappear.
- A crisp white wine or sparkling cider pairs beautifully with the tangy cranberry mayo.
- For a heartier spread, add a creamy soup like butternut squash or potato leek.
- Do not forget napkins, because these can get delightfully messy.
Save Every time I make these, I am reminded that the best recipes come from curiosity and a willingness to experiment with what you already have. I hope these sliders bring as much joy to your table as they have to mine.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the stuffing waffles crisp?
Cook the stuffing mixture in a preheated waffle iron sprayed with nonstick spray. Ensure the batter is moist but not soggy, and cook until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes per waffle.
- → Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, turkey works well as a substitute and imparts a classic holiday flavor that complements the stuffing waffles and cranberry mayo.
- → What is the best way to warm the shredded chicken filling?
Warm the shredded chicken gently in a microwave-safe bowl or in a small saucepan over low heat with chicken broth and seasonings to keep it moist and flavorful.
- → Is there a gluten-free option for the stuffing waffles?
Using a gluten-free stuffing mix allows you to make the waffles gluten-free while preserving the savory taste and texture.
- → How do I store leftover waffles and fillings?
Store the waffles and chicken separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the waffles in a toaster oven for crispiness before assembling.
- → What garnishes enhance the sliders' flavor?
Fresh baby arugula or spinach add a peppery and bright contrast, enhancing the richness of the chicken and cranberry mayo.