Crispy Chicken Mac and Cheese with Honey Garlic Sauce

Crispy Chicken Mac and Cheese with Honey Garlic Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Mac and Cheese:

• 1 lb (450 g) elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (480 ml) milk
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 3 cups (360 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Crispy Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups (120 g) panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Oil for frying

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1/3 cup (80 ml) honey
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Mac and Cheese:
   • Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
   • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking continuously until smooth and thickened.
   • Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
   • Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and mix well. Keep warm.
2. Cook Crispy Chicken:
   • Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
   • Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry chicken pieces until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
3. Make Honey Garlic Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and chili flakes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Assemble and Serve:
   • Place a serving of mac and cheese in a bowl. Top with crispy chicken pieces.
   • Drizzle honey garlic sauce over the chicken.
   • Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Conclusion:

This Crispy Chicken Mac and Cheese with Honey Garlic Sauce is the ultimate comfort food dish, offering a delightful mix of creamy, cheesy goodness with the crunch of fried chicken and a sweet and savory sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering, this meal will satisfy all your comfort food cravings!