Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering fusion of crispy Nashville hot chicken and creamy, cheesy mac and cheese. This easy-to-follow recipe combines the spicy kick of Southern-style fried chicken with the comforting flavors of a classic mac and cheese dish. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a delicious and hearty comfort food experience.
Key Takeaways
- Combines crispy Nashville hot chicken with creamy mac and cheese
- Marinated chicken chunks coated in a spicy breading and air-fried
- Homemade Nashville hot sauce adds a delicious kick
- Prepared in around 1 hour and 40 minutes, serving 4 people
- Perfect blend of spicy and comforting flavors for a satisfying meal
Essential Ingredients for Nashville Hot Chicken and Creamy Mac
Chicken and Marinade Components
To get the taste and texture of Nashville hot buttermilk chicken right, focus on the marinade and breading. Begin by marinating the chicken in a mix of pickle juice, hot sauce, and almond milk for 30 minutes to 2 hours. This makes the meat tender and adds a tangy, spicy flavor.
For the breading, use all-purpose flour, oat flour, and black pepper. This creates a crunchy coating that’s crispy and delicious.
Mac and Cheese Base Elements
The creamy macaroni and cheese starts with Al Dente Carba-Nada Pasta, unsweetened vanilla almond milk, and water. Add paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and yellow mustard for flavor. The cheese mix includes Velveeta slices and light shredded 3 cheese blend for a rich, creamy cheese sauce.
Some recipes also use parmesan, mozzarella, blue cheese, or cheddar for extra taste.
| Ingredient | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Items Labeled as “Dietitian’s Pick” | 80% |
| Items Marked as “Heart Healthy” | 60% |
| Items Classified as “SNAP Eligible” | 80% |
| Items Specified as “Gluten Free” | 70% |
This dish combines spicy fried chicken with creamy, baked macaroni and cheese. It’s a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Make your weeknight dinner special with this Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese recipe. It’s a mix of spicy fried chicken and creamy mac and cheese. This dish is perfect for a family-friendly meal that everyone will enjoy.
Start by marinating chicken chunks in pickle juice, hot sauce, and almond milk for 30 minutes to 2 hours. This lets the flavors soak into the meat. Then, mix flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper for the breading. Coat the chicken evenly with this mixture.
Cook the breaded chicken at 400°F for 18 minutes, flipping it to get even browning. While the chicken cooks, boil pasta in almond milk and water until it’s almost dry. Add seasonings, Dijon mustard, and shredded cheeses like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
To make the Nashville hot sauce, mix cayenne pepper, brown sugar, paprika, and garlic powder in a saucepan. Heat it until the sugar dissolves. After the chicken is done, toss it in the hot sauce to coat it evenly.
Put the spicy chicken and creamy mac and cheese together in serving containers or on a plate. For extra texture and flavor, top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs and bake at 325°F for 20-25 minutes before serving.
This recipe is the ultimate comfort food. It balances the spicy chicken with the creamy mac and cheese. It’s a delicious, easy dinner that’s perfect for a family meal.
| Cheese Recommendations | Pasta Types | Leftovers Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Parmesan, mozzarella, blue cheese, cheddar, Stilton, Oaxacan-style cheese, cotija cheese | Penne, macaroni, shells (larger shells recommended) | Microwave-proof container for up to a week (not recommended for freezing) |
“The Nashville Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese recipe is a hit! The flavors are incredible, and it’s so easy to make. My family loves it.”
The Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese Recipe serves 8 people, with each serving containing 455 calories.
Tips for Perfect Nashville Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese
Creating the ultimate comfort food mix of Nashville hot chicken and creamy mac and cheese requires a few key tips. Adjusting the spiciness and trying different cheese combinations are crucial. They help make a truly delightful spicy chicken marinade and buttermilk marinade experience.
Temperature Control
The secret to perfect soul food is in the temperature. Make sure the oil is at 350°F when frying the baked chicken thighs. This ensures a crispy outside and a juicy inside.
For the mac and cheese, use a moderate heat. This prevents the cheese sauce from becoming grainy or separating.
Texture and Storage
Choose pasta shapes that hold cheese sauce well, like penne, shells, or macaroni. Larger pasta shapes are best for family dinner and comfort food dishes.
When storing leftovers, keep the chicken and mac and cheese separate. Reheat them individually in the microwave, oven, or air fryer. This keeps the chicken crispy and the cheese sauce creamy.
By following these tips, you can make a mouthwatering Nashville Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese. Experiment with spice levels and cheese combinations. Find your perfect heat and creaminess for an unforgettable family dinner experience.
Conclusion
The Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese recipe is a perfect mix of spicy chicken and creamy pasta. It’s great for any meal, whether as a main dish or a side. It’s a hit with families and perfect for any occasion.
This spicy chicken recipe is easy to make and delicious. The guide helps you get the chicken and Mac and Cheese just right. You can make it as spicy or mild as you like, so everyone can enjoy it.
The Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese is a treat that brings together two comfort foods. It’s perfect for any meal or event. It’s a mix of spicy and creamy that will make your meal unforgettable.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients for the Nashville hot chicken and creamy mac and cheese?
The chicken marinade has pickle juice, hot sauce, and almond milk. The breading includes flour, oat flour, and black pepper. The Nashville hot sauce has honey alternative, light butter spread, and spices.
The mac and cheese base uses Al Dente Carba-Nada Pasta, unsweetened vanilla almond milk, and spices. It also includes Velveeta slices and light shredded 3 cheese blend.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
It takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to prepare. This recipe serves 4 people.
Can the spiciness level be adjusted?
Yes, you can adjust the spiciness. Change the amount of Nashville hot seasoning in the breading and sauce. The cheese sauce and pasta help cool down the chicken.
For a milder version, use less spice rub on the chicken or in the sauce.
What type of pasta should be used for the mac and cheese?
Choose pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like penne, shells, or macaroni. Larger pasta shapes work best.
Can the leftovers be stored and reheated?
Yes, you can store leftovers in microwave-safe containers for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave, oven, or air fryer to keep the topping crispy. Freezing is not recommended as it can change the pasta’s texture.
Source Links
- Crispy Nashville Hot Chicken n’ Mac & Cheese – Diana’s Delish Dishes – https://dianasdelishdishes.com/crispy-nashville-hot-chicken-n-mac-cheese/
- Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese – https://sugarspunrun.com/buffalo-chicken-mac-and-cheese/
- Baked Nashville Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese – https://www.orwhateveryoudo.com/2020/04/grilled-nashville-hot-chicken-mac-and-cheese.html
- Food Club Nashville Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese – https://www.foodcity.com/index.php?vica=ctl_recipes&vicb=showRecipeDetails&vicc=p&recipeID=4907&IsLocal=1
- Nashville Hot Chicken | Spoon Fork Bacon – https://www.spoonforkbacon.com/nashville-hot-chicken/
- Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese Recipe Delight – https://www.kirecipe.com/nashville-chicken-with-mac-n-cheese-recipe/
- Nashville Hot Chicken Mac Sliders – https://www.nestleprofessional.us/recipe/nashville-hot-chicken-mac-sliders
- One Bite of This Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich Will Send Your Taste Buds Screaming – https://www.simplyrecipes.com/nashville-hot-chicken-recipe-5191597
- Nashville Chicken With Mac N Cheese – Rated Recipes – https://www.ratedrecipes.net/nashville-chicken-with-mac-n-cheese/
- Indulgent 5-Star Crispy Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese Recipe – https://symphonyrecipes.com/nashville-chicken-with-mac-n-cheese/
- Nashville Chicken With Mac n Cheese – Enjoy the Perfect Flavor Combo – Chicken – https://chickenor.com/nashville-chicken-with-mac-n-cheese-enjoy/