Chicken Tenders and Cheesy Bacon Waffles

Combine chicken strips, salt, pepper, and milk in a bowl. Marinate in the refrigerator, covered, for 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare the waffle batter: Combine egg, oil, and water in a bowl. Mix well. Add pancake mix to the bowl and stir just to combine; do not overmix. The mixture should be lumpy. Fold in bacon and cheese; set aside.

Prepare the chicken breading by putting all-purpose flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls. Dredge chicken strips in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.

Heat vegetable oil and deep-fry breaded chicken until golden brown. Set aside.

Scoop waffle batter onto a waffle maker, using approximately 1/4 cup for each waffle. Cook until golden brown. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Transfer waffles to serving plates. Top with butter and bacon. Drizzle with maple or pancake syrup. Serve with chicken tenders on the side.