When it comes to breakfast showdowns, I think waffles are always going to win over pancakes. Fluffy cakes drenched in sweet syrup are great, don’t get me wrong. But waffles? They have that extra special something -- a crispy crunch giving way to soft cake, perfect little wells for holding all that sweet maple syrup.

Not convinced? Try the recipes below and you will be. They're Southern and full of flavor, and they make for a breakfast that you will never regret.

Southern-style chicken and waffles
Very few things in life are better than Southern-style chicken and waffles. Let me tell you why. First, it's a texture thing. The waffles are soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside, just like a good piece of fried chicken. Then, there are all the flavors. The waffles soak up all the sweetness from the maple syrup, which presents a stark contrast to the super savory flavors of the fried chicken. Get the recipe here.

Southern sweet strawberry waffles
If you are the kind of person who likes to eat dessert for breakfast, waffles are the perfect solution. They’re a perfectly acceptable breakfast food and are delicious topped with fresh fruit and clouds of sweetened whipped cream. This recipe includes fresh, sweet strawberries -- both in the waffles and on top.

Southern apple cider waffles
Apple cider and waffles seems like the perfect combination for breakfast on a brisk fall morning, but of course these can be made any time of year. Get the recipe here.

Southern chicken and waffle sliders
To the uninitiated, it may sound like an unlikely pairing. Fried chicken and waffles? But one taste and you’ll surely grasp its appeal. Soft meets crunchy, sweet meets spicy, breakfast meets dinner and the result is an improbable but wholly delicious combo. This recipe combines freshly made waffles with your favorite fried chicken and a spicy maple syrup in a way that is sure to rock your world.

Southern ham and cheese waffles
I’ve never really jumped on the sweets-for-breakfast bandwagon, so the wonder of waffles mostly escaped me. This recipe, though, has turned me into a raving fan. It’s a savory waffle filled with ham and cheese. A spicy-sweet, honey mustard dipping sauce is the perfect finishing touch.

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