Who can resist the ultimate comfort food combination of crispy chicken and creamy mac and cheese? This Crispy Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delightful dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken with a golden, crunchy topping over a rich and cheesy pasta base. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Let’s get started on this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Crispy Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Mac and Cheese
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni.
Prepare the Crispy Chicken
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Coat the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Dredge each piece in flour, dip in the beaten egg, and coat with the breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese mixture.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet and finish cooking in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Assemble the Dish
- Combine and Top: Spread the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish. Slice the crispy chicken breasts and arrange them on top of the mac and cheese.
- Add the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over the top of the chicken and mac and cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Customization: Add cooked bacon, green onions, or jalapeños to the mac and cheese for an extra flavor boost.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese? Yes, feel free to mix and match cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or Gouda for a unique flavor profile.
What if I don’t have Parmesan for the topping? You can substitute with any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or even more cheddar.
How do I prevent the chicken from getting soggy? Make sure the chicken is fully cooked and crispy before adding it to the mac and cheese. If reheating, avoid covering the dish to keep the topping crunchy.
Text Me if You Have Any Problems
If you have any questions or need assistance while making your Crispy Chicken Mac and Cheese, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help you create a dish that’s both comforting and delicious.
For more comfort food recipes, check out our other savory dishes.