Print

Fried Chicken Mac and Cheese

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Fried Chicken Mac and Cheese combines crispy, golden fried chicken with rich, creamy macaroni and cheese for the ultimate comfort food meal. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners, game days, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Sliced green onions (optional)
  • Hot sauce (optional)
  • Crispy bacon bits (optional)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken in the buttermilk while preparing the macaroni and cheese.
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Melt the butter in a saucepan, whisk in the flour, then gradually add the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
  4. Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and creamy.
  5. Season the cheese sauce with Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, then fold in the cooked macaroni.
  6. Combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne. Coat the marinated chicken in the mixture.
  7. Heat the vegetable oil and fry the chicken until crispy, golden brown, and fully cooked.
  8. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.
  9. Serve the creamy mac and cheese topped with the crispy fried chicken and garnish with parsley, green onions, hot sauce, or bacon bits if desired.

Notes

  • Drizzle the fried chicken with honey hot sauce for a sweet and spicy variation.
  • Add diced jalapeños or Cajun seasoning for extra heat.
  • Try smoked Gouda, pepper Jack, or Gruyère for different cheese flavors.
  • Bake the mac and cheese with a breadcrumb topping before adding the chicken for a crispy finish.
  • Store the chicken and mac and cheese separately in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer and the mac and cheese with a splash of milk to maintain its creamy texture.
  • Freeze the mac and cheese for up to 2 months; fried chicken is best enjoyed fresh.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/fried-chicken-mac-and-cheese/