Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese

If you’re craving that classic soul-soothing combo that makes your taste buds sing, look no further than Southern Fried Chicken paired with creamy mac and cheese. Imagine crispy, golden chicken with a perfectly crunchy crust alongside rich, velvety mac and cheese that’s pure comfort in every bite. This is the kind of meal that wraps you up in nostalgia and warmth trust me, it’s a total crowd-pleaser and a guaranteed winner every time.

Why You’ll Love Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese
This dish isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about enjoying a comforting, feel-good meal that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re cooking for a family feast, a cozy weekend dinner, or just treating yourself, this pairing is pure magic:

Versatile: Great as a hearty main dish with plenty of room for sides or salad.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that stretch far.
Quick and Easy: While it looks fancy, it’s surprisingly straightforward to make.
Customizable: Spice up your chicken or add extras like bacon or jalapeños to your mac.
Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by kids and adults alike always a hit at any table.

Ingredients in Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese

Let’s break down the stars of this comfort food duo:

Chicken Pieces: Juicy and tender inside with a crispy, seasoned coating.
Flour and Spices: For the perfect flavorful crust think paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Buttermilk: Helps tenderize the chicken and locks in moisture.
Elbow Macaroni: Classic pasta shape that’s perfect for creamy cheese sauce.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and melty, the heart of the mac and cheese.
Milk and Butter: Create a smooth, luscious cheese sauce.
Flour (for roux): Thickens the cheese sauce to silky perfection.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing flavors.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get cooking this soul-satisfying meal step by step:

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a deep fryer or heavy skillet with oil heated to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Chicken: Marinate chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 1 hour to tenderize and add flavor.
Combine Ingredients: Mix flour with spices in a large bowl. Remove chicken from buttermilk, dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
Cook the Chicken: Fry chicken pieces in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 12-15 minutes depending on size. Drain on paper towels.
Prepare the Mac and Cheese: Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, stir in flour to make a roux, cook for a minute or two until bubbly. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bake to Perfection: Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate the crispy fried chicken alongside the creamy mac and cheese and dive into pure comfort.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: Approximately 700

Notes:
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (including marinating)

How to Serve Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese

Serve this classic duo with collard greens, baked beans, or a fresh green salad for balance. A side of cornbread or pickles adds a nice Southern touch. For extra indulgence, drizzle hot sauce or honey over the chicken.

Additional Tips

Use a thermometer to keep your frying oil at the right temperature for crispy, non-greasy chicken. For an extra crispy crust, double-dip the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture. Make the mac and cheese ahead and reheat it with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

FAQ’s

1. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
   Yes, coat the chicken and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
2. What cut of chicken is best for frying?
   Bone-in, skin-on pieces like thighs and drumsticks stay juicy and flavorful.
3. Can I use a different cheese for the mac and cheese?
   Cheddar is classic, but try gouda, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for variety.
4. How do I keep fried chicken crispy after cooking?
   Drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels to avoid sogginess.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free flour and pasta alternatives.
6. How long can leftovers be stored?
   Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in airtight containers.
7. Can I freeze the mac and cheese?
   Yes, freeze before baking and thaw overnight before baking.
8. What’s the best oil for frying chicken?
   Use oils with a high smoke point like vegetable, peanut, or canola oil.
9. Can I add spices to the mac and cheese?
   Sure! Paprika, mustard powder, or cayenne add great flavor.
10. How do I reheat fried chicken?
    Reheat in a 375°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Conclusion

Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort meal that never goes out of style. With crispy, juicy chicken and a rich, cheesy pasta side, this dish brings warmth, joy, and a little Southern magic to your table. Whip it up anytime you want to feel cozy and totally satisfied this one’s a forever favorite!

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