Chicken and Waffle Sliders

Chef notes I went to college in Atlanta and lived there for years after I graduated. The flavors were unlike anything I'd had before — especially the savory, spicy, creamy goodness known as pimento cheese. When I had it warm and melty from the iconic drive-in diner known as The Varsity, I was blown away by the versatility of this Southern staple. My version of it gets kicked up with a little heat from chili flakes and umami from Worcestershire sauce. Chicken and waffles is synonymous to Atlanta for me, and combining these two treats from my life in the Peachtree City, in celebration of the city's deeply beloved Falcons, fills me with great nostalgia, joy and chicken!

Technique tips: Things like condiments and marinades are best made in advance to cut down on prep time. Plus, the longer they sit, or things sit in them, the better they usually taste. Also, don't overwork the pimento cheese; it should have texture — not be a flavored cream cheese. One more thing: It's best to shred your own cheese.