Introduction:

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food pairing: a lusciously creamy mac n cheese combined with the crunch and flavor of extra crispy fried chicken. This dish is perfect for those days when you need a hearty, satisfying meal that warms the soul.

Ingredients:

For the Mac n Cheese:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs (for topping)

For the Extra Crispy Fried Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

Mac n Cheese:

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until the mixture becomes paste-like and light golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in milk so that no lumps form, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until the sauce thickens.
4. Add 3 cups of cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat.
7. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a lightly greased baking dish. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs on top.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, about 20 minutes.

Extra Crispy Fried Chicken:

1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Dredge chicken in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, then press into breadcrumbs or panko, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts.
4. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.
5. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Serving:
Serve the creamy mac n cheese on a plate with a piece of the extra crispy fried chicken on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Tips:

• For an extra kick, add some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning.
• You can also add cooked bacon bits or sautéed vegetables to the mac n cheese for added flavor and texture.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) for Creamy Mac n Cheese with Extra Crispy Fried Chicken

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for the Mac n Cheese?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or shells. Just ensure you cook it according to the package instructions.

2. Can I make the Mac n Cheese gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure any breadcrumbs used are also gluten-free.

3. What type of oil is best for frying the chicken?
Canola, vegetable, or peanut oil are all great choices for frying due to their high smoke points.

4. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying for a healthier option?
Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked and crispy.

5. How can I make my fried chicken even crispier?
Using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs can give the chicken an extra crispy texture. Also, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken.

6. Can I prepare the Mac n Cheese in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Mac n Cheese a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake in the oven until heated through and bubbly.

7. How long can I store leftovers?
Both the Mac n Cheese and fried chicken can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

8. Can I add other seasonings to the chicken?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning to your liking. Some popular additions include cayenne pepper, dried herbs, or even grated Parmesan cheese in the breadcrumb mixture.

9. Can I add vegetables to the Mac n Cheese?
Yes, vegetables like broccoli, peas, or bell peppers can be added to the Mac n Cheese. Ensure they are cooked or sautéed before mixing them in.

10. What sides go well with this dish?
A fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.