Description
Crispy Chicken Mac & Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup cooked and breaded chicken bites
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to make a roux.
3. Gradually add milk while whisking until the sauce thickens.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until the cheese melts.
5. Combine the macaroni with the cheese sauce. Transfer to a serving bowl.
6. Top with crispy chicken bites and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
#MacAndCheese #ComfortFood
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof, creamy mac and cheese base topped with crispy chicken.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, usually 1-2 minutes less than the package suggests. Drain and set aside; do not rinse.
- Master the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted and bubbling slightly, add the flour. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and turns a light golden color. This cooks the raw flour taste out.
- Create the Bechamel: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring until fully melted before adding more. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is thoroughly coated.
- Assemble and Serve: Transfer the cheesy macaroni to a serving dish. Top generously with the crispy chicken bites. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the hot chicken so it slightly melts. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish pairs perfectly with lighter sides. Serve it with a simple green salad dressed with a vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a vegetable side, steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus are excellent choices. To make it a true comfort food feast, add a side of garlic bread or soft dinner rolls.
How-to Summary
Boil pasta. Make a roux with butter and flour. Whisk in milk to create a bechamel sauce. Melt cheddar into the sauce to create the cheese base. Combine with pasta. Top with crispy chicken bites, Parmesan, and parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, any short pasta with good sauce-holding ability works well, such as cavatappi, shells, or penne.
How can I make this dish ahead of time? Prepare the mac and cheese (steps 1-5) and store it covered in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. Cook the chicken bites fresh for maximum crispiness before topping.
My cheese sauce is grainy. What happened? Graininess often occurs from overheating the sauce after adding the cheese. Always melt cheese over low heat and avoid boiling the sauce once the cheese is incorporated.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese? It’s best to shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent a smooth, creamy melt.
What’s the best way to get crispy chicken bites? For ultimate crispiness, use an air fryer or bake frozen breaded chicken bites according to package directions, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overcrowded.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rinsing the pasta: This washes away the starch that helps the cheese sauce cling to the noodles.
- Not cooking the roux long enough: Whisk the butter and flour for a full minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Adding cheese to a boiling sauce: High heat can cause the cheese to separate and become oily. Always reduce the heat to low before stirring in the cheese.
- Using cold toppings: Add the crispy chicken and Parmesan immediately after cooking/preparing them so the heat helps integrate the flavors.
Conclusion
This Crispy Chicken Mac & Cheese recipe is the ultimate upgrade to a classic comfort food. By mastering a simple homemade cheese sauce and pairing it with the satisfying crunch of chicken, you create a dish that is both decadent and deeply satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight treat or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Remember the key tips: shred your own cheese, cook your roux, and always serve it hot for the best texture and flavor.