Description
Crispy Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
For the Mac and Cheese:
300g elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Crispy Chicken:
300g chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 egg, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetable oil (for frying)
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Add the cooked macaroni and mix well.
3. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Dredge each piece in flour, dip in beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken pieces for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. Assemble the Dish: Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish. Top with crispy chicken bites, sprinkle with parsley, and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve: Serve warm and enjoy this creamy and crunchy comfort dish!
This crispy chicken mac and cheese is a perfect combination of creamy pasta and crispy bites, ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
#MacAndCheese #CrispyChicken
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof result. First, complete all prep: grate cheeses, chop parsley, and cut chicken. Begin by boiling water for the pasta. While it cooks, start your cheese sauce. The key is to cook the flour-butter roux for a full minute to remove the raw taste before slowly adding milk. Whisk constantly to avoid lumps. For the chicken, set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs mixed with the seasonings. Keep one hand for dry ingredients and one for wet to avoid clumping. Fry the chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding, which steams the pieces and makes them soggy.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Consider a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a heartier meal, serve with roasted green beans or steamed broccoli. To elevate presentation for guests, serve in individual cast-iron skillets or shallow bowls, ensuring each portion gets plenty of crispy chicken on top.
How-to Summary
In summary, this dish involves two main parallel processes: creating a creamy stovetop mac and cheese, and breading then pan-frying seasoned chicken bites. Combine them by topping the pasta with the crispy chicken, adding fresh herbs and extra cheese for garnish. The entire dish comes together in about 45 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying? Yes. For a lighter version, place breaded chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 200°C for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
How can I make the cheese sauce smoother? Ensure your heat is medium, not high, when adding the milk. Use freshly grated cheese, as pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat mac and cheese separately with a splash of milk in a saucepan over low heat. Re-crisp the chicken in an air fryer or toaster oven to maintain texture.
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Cavatappi, shells, or penne are excellent choices as their shapes hold the cheese sauce well.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming dry? The sauce will thicken as it sits. If preparing ahead, undercook the pasta slightly and add a touch more milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding cheese to a boiling sauce, which can cause it to separate and become oily.
- Overcrowding the pan when frying the chicken, leading to uneven cooking and loss of crispiness.
- Using cold milk in the cheese sauce, which can shock the roux and create lumps. Warm it slightly first.
- Underseasoning the breadcrumbs. Taste the breadcrumb mixture before breading to ensure it’s flavorful.
- Letting the cooked chicken sit on top of the hot mac and cheese for too long before serving, which can soften the breading.
Conclusion
This Crispy Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe masterfully combines two beloved comfort foods into one show-stopping meal. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can achieve the perfect balance of a luxuriously creamy pasta and irresistibly crunchy chicken. It’s a versatile dish that is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for both casual weeknights and special occasions. Enjoy the delicious contrast of textures and flavors in every bite.