Description
This crispy breaded chicken with creamy mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort dish. Golden fried chicken sits on top of rich, cheesy pasta and is finished with a sweet and spicy hot honey drizzle for an unforgettable flavor combination.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup gouda cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Season chicken with spices and marinate in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat oil to 350°F. Coat chicken in flour and cornstarch mixture, then fry 5–7 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain.
- Cook macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, cook 1–2 minutes. Add milk and cream, whisk until thickened.
- Stir in garlic powder, paprika, and cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta to cheese sauce and mix well.
- Warm honey and stir in red pepper flakes to make hot honey.
- Serve mac and cheese topped with crispy chicken and drizzle with hot honey.
Notes
- Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor.
- Adjust spice level by changing cayenne or chili flakes.
- Serve with salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Pasta
- Method: Fry, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern, American