Ultimate Crispy Fried Chicken & Mac ‘n’ Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This soul-satisfying combination brings together two classic comfort foods: creamy, cheesy macaroni and perfectly crispy fried chicken. The contrast of textures and flavors makes this meal a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly approachable for beginners. The recipe below provides detailed instructions to ensure success, along with interesting historical context and nutritional insights.
Historical Background
Mac ‘n’ Cheese: Dating back to 14th century Italy, the dish evolved in America when Thomas Jefferson served it at a state dinner in 1802. The boxed version became iconic during the Great Depression.
Fried Chicken: With roots in Scottish and West African culinary traditions, fried chicken became a Southern staple in the United States, with frying techniques perfected by enslaved African cooks and later popularized worldwide.
Benefits & Appeal
· Comfort Food Therapy: These dishes release serotonin, promoting feelings of happiness
· Customizable: Easily adaptable with different cheeses, seasonings, or chicken coatings
· Crowd-Pleaser: Universally loved by adults and children alike
· Skill-Building: Teaches fundamental cooking techniques like roux-making and frying
Ingredients
For the Crispy Fried Chicken:
· 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
· 2 cups buttermilk
· 2 cups all-purpose flour
· 1 tablespoon paprika
· 2 teaspoons garlic powder
· 2 teaspoons onion powder
· 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
· 1 tablespoon salt
· 2 teaspoons black pepper
· 1 teaspoon baking powder (for extra crispiness)
· Vegetable oil for frying (about 4 cups)
For the Creamy Mac ‘n’ Cheese:
· 1 lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
· 4 tablespoons butter
· ¼ cup all-purpose flour
· 3 cups whole milk, warmed
· 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
· 1 cup Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
· ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
· ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
· ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
· Salt and white pepper to taste
· ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
· 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional for topping)
Equipment
· Large pot for pasta and boiling
· Heavy-bottomed saucepan for cheese sauce
· Large skillet or Dutch oven for frying
· Meat mallet or rolling pin
· Three shallow bowls for breading station
· Thermometer (for oil)
· Whisk
· Tongs
· Baking dish (if baking mac ‘n’ cheese)
Instructions & Methods
Part 1: Crispy Fried Chicken
Preparation Method:
1. Marinate Chicken: Pound chicken to even thickness (½-inch). Soak in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours in refrigerator).
Breading Method:
1. In a shallow bowl, mix flour, spices, salt, pepper, and baking powder.
2. Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
3. Dredge each piece thoroughly in flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
4. For extra-crispy chicken, double-dip: return to buttermilk, then flour again.
Frying Method:
1. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a heavy skillet.
2. Fry chicken in batches (don’t overcrowd) for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Drain on wire rack over baking sheet (not paper towels) to maintain crispiness.
Part 2: Creamy Mac ‘n’ Cheese
Pasta Preparation:
1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water 1 minute less than package directions (al dente). Drain and set aside.
Cheese Sauce Method (Roux-Based):
1. Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour and cook 2 minutes until golden (creating a “blond roux”).
3. Gradually add warm milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Reduce heat to low. Add cheeses gradually, stirring until melted and smooth.
5. Season with paprika, mustard powder, salt, and white pepper.
Assembly Method:
1. Combine pasta and cheese sauce.
2. For baked version: Transfer to buttered baking dish, top with panko mixed with melted butter, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serving Formation
· Serve mac ‘n’ cheese in shallow bowls or plates
· Slice fried chicken on diagonal
· Place chicken atop or beside mac ‘n’ cheese
· Garnish with fresh parsley or chives
· Add optional side of collard greens or simple salad
Nutrition Information (per serving, serves 6)
· Calories: 850-950
· Protein: 45g
· Carbohydrates: 65g
· Fat: 45g
· Calcium: 45% DV
· Iron: 25% DV
Note: For lighter version, use baked chicken and low-fat milk with reduced cheese
For Lovers of This Dish:
· Spice Lovers: Add jalapeños to mac ‘n’ cheese or extra cayenne to chicken breading
· Gourmet Twist: Use truffle oil in mac ‘n’ cheese or add herbs de Provence to flour mixture
· International Twist: Top with Korean gochujang glaze or Nashville hot chicken style
· Brunch Version: Serve with maple syrup drizzle for sweet-savory combination
Pro Tips for Beginners:
1. Temperature Control: Maintain oil at 350°F for perfect frying
2. Cheese Sauce: Remove from heat before adding cheese to prevent graininess
3. Meal Prep: Both components reheat well separately
4. Crispiness Secret: Let breaded chicken rest 10 minutes before frying
Conclusion
This Crispy Fried Chicken and Mac ‘n’ Cheese combination represents the pinnacle of comfort food—creamy, crunchy, savory, and deeply satisfying. While indulgent, it can be modified for dietary needs and makes for impressive entertaining or weeknight treat cooking. The techniques learned here—creating a roux, proper frying, seasoning balance—are foundational skills that will elevate your entire cooking repertoire.
The enduring love for this dish pairing speaks to its perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether served at family gatherings, potlucks, or as a personal treat, it never fails to delight. Remember to enjoy it mindfully and share with those you care about—food this good is meant for connection.
Thank you for cooking with me! ❤ Keep exploring, keep tasting, and keep sharing the love through food! Don’t forget to follow for more detailed recipes and cooking adventures!