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Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 74 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus at least 4 hours marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Description

This Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese recipe combines crispy, flavorful fried chicken with rich, cheesy macaroni, making for a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Ingredients

For the Fried Chicken:

  • 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (drumsticks and thighs)
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Mac and Cheese:

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce, if using. Submerge the chicken pieces in this mixture, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to tenderize and infuse flavor.
  2. Prepare Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. This seasoned flour mixture will create the crispy crust on the chicken.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour, pressing to make sure the coating adheres well. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack and let rest for 10 minutes to set the crust.
  4. Fry Chicken: Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the chicken in batches, turning occasionally for even golden browning, cooking for about 12 to 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and drain on a wire rack lined with paper towels.
  5. Cook Macaroni: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  6. Make Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, approximately 5 minutes.
  7. Season and Add Cheese: Stir in garlic powder, mustard powder if using, salt, and black pepper. Add shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring continuously until melted and the sauce is smooth.
  8. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce: Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pasta evenly. Keep warm until ready to serve.
  9. Serve: Plate the crispy fried chicken alongside a generous portion of creamy mac and cheese for a classic Southern comfort food meal.

Notes

  • For extra crispy chicken, double-dip in buttermilk and flour before frying.
  • Add a breadcrumb topping to the mac and cheese and broil for 2–3 minutes for a baked variation.
  • Both the fried chicken and mac and cheese can be made ahead and reheated gently for serving without compromising texture or flavor.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/southern-fried-chicken-with-creamy-mac-and-cheese-recipe-2/