Slice the chicken breast into thick strips and place them in a small bowl with the buttermilk to marinate for 10 minutes.
In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the whole wheat flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper.
Remove each chicken strip from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture.
Lightly coat the air fryer basket with avocado oil spray and place the chicken inside in a single layer.
Spray the tops of the chicken strips with avocado oil and air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
While the chicken is cooking, toast the whole grain waffle until it is warm and slightly crisp.
Place the toasted waffle on a plate, top with the golden chicken strips, and finish with a drizzle of maple syrup.