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Crispy Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese

Crispy Chicken with Creamy Mac and Cheese

This recipe combines crispy chicken with creamy mac and cheese for a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 800
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper adjust to taste
For the Macaroni
  • 1 lb elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
  • Salt for boiling water
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
Optional Toppings
  • Crispy bacon crumbles
  • Chopped green onions
  • Extra black pepper
  • Honey drizzle
  • Fresh parsley

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Pot

Method
 

  1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook until golden and cooked through.
  2. In a pot, boil salted water and cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a pot. Whisk in flour, then gradually add milk, cream, and chicken broth. Stir in cheeses, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until thick and creamy.
  4. Combine macaroni with cheese sauce. Serve with crispy chicken on top. Add optional toppings as desired.

Notes

You can adjust the spices and toppings to your taste.