Description
Crispy Chicken Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Mac and Cheese:
12 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Crispy Chicken:
1 pound chicken tenders, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying
For Garnish:
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped parsley
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Dredge the chicken pieces in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the chicken pieces until golden and crispy. Drain on a paper towel and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Boil the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, cooking until thickened.
Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine:
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until coated.
5. Assemble:
Serve the mac and cheese topped with crispy chicken bites. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Enjoy this comforting and crispy dish!
#CrispyChickenMacAndCheese #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof dish. First, complete all prep: cut chicken, shred and grate cheeses, and measure ingredients. Begin frying the chicken. While it cooks, start boiling water for the pasta. Once the chicken is draining, cook the pasta. As the pasta boils, make the cheese sauce in a separate saucepan. The key is to have the sauce ready just as the pasta finishes draining. Combine pasta and sauce immediately, then top with the hot, crispy chicken. This synchronized method ensures every component is perfectly hot and textured when served.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness. For a vegetable side, try roasted broccoli or steamed green beans. To make it a true comfort food feast, serve with garlic bread or soft dinner rolls for scooping up extra cheese sauce. For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small cast-iron skillets to keep the meal warm at the table.
How-to Summary
In short: coat and fry chicken until crispy. Boil macaroni until al dente. Create a creamy cheese sauce by making a roux (butter + flour), then whisking in milk and cream before melting in the cheeses. Combine the sauce with the drained pasta. Top the cheesy pasta with the crispy chicken pieces and garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake this dish instead of frying the chicken? Yes. For a lighter version, place breaded chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
How can I prevent my cheese sauce from becoming grainy? Avoid high heat when adding cheese. Remove the sauce from the burner and let it cool slightly before stirring in the shredded cheese until it melts smoothly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. For the chicken, use an air fryer or toaster oven to recrisp.
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Cavatappi, shells, or rotini are excellent choices as their shapes hold the cheese sauce well.
How do I make this dish ahead of time? Prepare the mac and cheese and chicken separately. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Recombine and heat gently, recrisping the chicken in the oven.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook only until al dente. It will continue to soften in the hot cheese sauce.
- A Weak Roux: Cook the butter and flour for a full 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, but don’t let it brown.
- Adding Cheese to Boiling Sauce: This can cause the sauce to break and become oily. Let the base cool slightly first.
- Crowding the Pan When Frying: Frying too many chicken pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy, greasy chicken.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: These cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Always shred your own from a block.
Conclusion
This Crispy Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, masterfully combining creamy, cheesy pasta with crunchy, savory chicken. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home that is sure to impress. Don’t forget to explore the serving suggestions to round out your meal. It’s a decadent, satisfying recipe perfect for a special family dinner or when you simply need a hearty, delicious pick-me-up.