Save I was staring at a container of leftover stuffing one November afternoon, wondering what to do with it besides reheating. My waffle iron sat on the counter from breakfast, and something just clicked. What if stuffing could crisp up like a waffle? An hour later, I had golden savory waffles that tasted like Thanksgiving in handheld form. The Caesar chicken sandwich idea came a week later when I wanted something fresh to balance all that herby richness.
The first time I made these for friends, nobody believed the waffles were stuffing until they tasted them. One person picked up a waffle and just ate it plain, standing by the stove. Another loaded hers with extra Parmesan and declared it better than any bread she'd had in months. We ended up making a second batch because the first round disappeared before I could even assemble the sandwiches.
Ingredients
- Day-old bread: Stale bread soaks up the broth without turning to mush, and any variety works as long as it has some structure.
- Celery and onion: These are the backbone of classic stuffing flavor, and chopping them finely helps them cook through in the waffle iron.
- Fresh parsley: It adds a pop of color and brightness that dried herbs just cannot match.
- Sage and thyme: Dried works perfectly here and gives that unmistakable savory warmth we associate with holiday meals.
- Chicken broth: Low-sodium is key so you control the salt level, and it binds everything together.
- Eggs: They act as the glue, helping the waffles hold their shape and crisp up beautifully.
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps the exterior brown and get crunchy.
- Chicken breasts: Slicing them thin makes them cook faster and fit better in the sandwich.
- Olive oil and garlic powder: Simple seasoning that lets the chicken shine without competing with the Caesar flavors.
- Romaine lettuce: Its sturdy leaves stand up to dressing and add that essential Caesar crunch.
- Caesar dressing: Store-bought is fine, but homemade with anchovies and lemon takes it to another level.
- Parmesan cheese: Use the real stuff, freshly grated or shaved, because it makes all the difference in flavor.
- Cherry tomatoes: Optional but they add little bursts of sweetness and acidity.
Instructions
- Make the Stuffing Waffles:
- Preheat your waffle iron and mix the bread cubes with all the aromatics and seasonings in a big bowl. Whisk the eggs, broth, and melted butter together, then pour it over the bread and toss gently until everything is moist but still has some texture.
- Cook the Waffles:
- Grease the iron lightly and spoon about a cup of the mixture onto the center, then close it and let it cook for 5 to 8 minutes until the edges are golden and crispy. You will know it is ready when steam stops escaping and the waffle releases easily.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Slice the breasts horizontally so you have thinner cutlets, rub them with oil and seasonings, then grill or pan-sear them over medium-high heat for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing so the juices redistribute.
- Dress the Salad:
- Toss the chopped romaine with Caesar dressing and grated Parmesan until every leaf is coated. If you are using tomatoes, fold them in gently at the end.
- Build the Sandwiches:
- Set a waffle on a plate, layer it with sliced chicken, a big scoop of the dressed salad, and some shaved Parmesan, then top with another waffle and a few grinds of black pepper. Serve right away while the waffles are still warm and crisp.
Save There was a Sunday last spring when I made these for brunch and set them out on a platter with extra dressing on the side. My neighbor wandered over and grabbed one, then came back ten minutes later asking for the recipe. She said it reminded her of a diner sandwich her dad used to make, except better. That is when I realized this dish is more than just a clever use of leftovers, it is the kind of food that sparks memories and starts conversations.
How to Store and Reheat
The stuffing waffles keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and you can reheat them in a toaster or oven to bring back the crispness. I do not recommend assembling the sandwiches ahead because the lettuce will wilt and the waffles will get soggy. If you want to meal prep, cook the chicken and make the waffles, then store everything separately and assemble fresh when you are ready to eat.
Variations to Try
Swap the chicken for turkey, especially if you have Thanksgiving leftovers sitting around. Add crispy bacon or anchovy fillets to the salad for extra umami and salt. You can also make the waffles with cornbread stuffing for a Southern twist, or use sourdough for a tangier flavor. One time I added chopped kale to the romaine and it gave the sandwich a heartier, more rustic feel.
Pairing and Serving Ideas
These sandwiches are filling enough to stand alone, but they pair beautifully with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or sweet potato fries. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager cuts through the richness, and sparkling water with lemon is perfect if you want something non-alcoholic. I have also served them at casual gatherings with a big bowl of chips and pickles on the side, and people always go back for seconds.
- Try serving with a tangy coleslaw for crunch and contrast.
- Offer extra Caesar dressing and hot sauce on the side for people to customize.
- Cut the sandwiches in half diagonally so they are easier to pick up and look more impressive on the plate.
Save This recipe has become my go-to whenever I want something that feels indulgent but is actually straightforward to make. It is the kind of dish that surprises people and makes them smile, and that is always worth the effort.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How are the stuffing waffles prepared?
Day-old bread cubes are mixed with celery, onion, herbs, and seasonings, then combined with eggs and chicken broth. The mixture is cooked in a waffle iron until crisp and golden.
- → What is the best way to cook the chicken breasts?
Slice chicken breasts into thin cutlets, season with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat until fully cooked and juicy.
- → Can I customize the salad filling?
Yes, you can add cherry tomatoes or mix in cooked bacon or anchovy fillets for added flavor and texture.
- → What are good beverage pairings for this meal?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon pairs wonderfully, complementing the savory and fresh elements of the dish.
- → Is it possible to make the waffles gluten-free?
Substituting gluten-free bread for the stuffing waffle base allows you to enjoy this dish with gluten-free requirements in mind.