Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food combination with our Mac n Cheese and Extra Crispy Fried Chicken recipe. This indulgent pairing brings together the creamy goodness of classic macaroni and cheese with the irresistible crunch of perfectly fried chicken. From the cheesy, oven-baked mac n cheese to the extra crispy and golden brown fried chicken, this recipe is a celebration of flavor and texture. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s embark on a culinary journey that promises to satisfy every comfort food craving.
Mac n Cheese Ingredients:
- 12 oz dry macaroni
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup light cream (about 10-12% MF)
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 can condensed cream of cheddar soup (optional, 10.75oz)
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup fresh parmesan cheese
Mac n Cheese Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and run under cold water.
- Melt butter over medium heat in a large saucepan. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Slowly whisk in cream, milk, dry mustard powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Cook over medium heat while stirring until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese and 3 cups of cheddar cheese until melted.
- Add condensed cream of cheddar soup if using. Toss the cheese sauce with macaroni noodles and pour into a greased 9×13 pan.
- Top with the remaining cheese and bake for 18-24 minutes or until bubbly. Do not overcook. Cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Extra Crispy Fried Chicken Ingredients:
- 3 pounds chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (optional)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups canola or peanut oil
Extra Crispy Fried Chicken Directions:
- Rinse the chicken pieces with cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs with milk and stir in salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Soak the chicken in the milk mixture for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Combine flour and seasoned salt (if using) in a large zip-top plastic bag. Add the chicken pieces, a few at a time, and shake to coat completely in the flour.
- Shake off any excess and set the chicken aside on a rack to dry.
- Pour the oil into a deep skillet or deep fryer and heat it to 350 degrees F. Add chicken thighs and legs and cook for several minutes.
- Add other chicken pieces being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Continue cooking, turning once, until chicken pieces are golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm or at room temperature.
Conclusion:
Indulge in the ultimate comfort combo with this Mac n Cheese and Extra Crispy Fried Chicken recipe. Whether it’s a weekend feast or a special occasion, this pairing is sure to be a hit at the dining table. The creamy mac n cheese and the crispy fried chicken create a harmony of flavors and textures that will leave everyone coming back for more. Gather your loved ones, savor the comfort, and enjoy this delightful culinary experience.