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CRISPY CHICKEN MAC & CHEESE

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This Crispy Chicken Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a high-protein twist! Juicy, golden-crusted chicken breasts sit atop creamy, cheesy macaroni, making this a quick, indulgent dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. 

Ingredients

Scale

  • For the Chicken:

    • 2 x 100g uncooked chicken breasts
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1 egg, beaten
    • 30g panko breadcrumbs
    • 1 tsp paprika
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • Oil spray

  • For the Mac & Cheese:

    • 100g uncooked macaroni
    • 200ml low-fat milk
    • 30g light cream cheese
    • 1 tsp mustard
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 10g mozzarella, shredded
    • 40g cheddar cheese, shredded

  • For Garnish:

    • 1 tsp parmesan cheese, grated
    • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chicken:

    • Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cover with baking paper and flatten using a mallet or rolling pin.
    • Dip chicken into the beaten egg.
    • Mix panko breadcrumbs with paprika and garlic powder, then coat the chicken. Spray with oil.
    • Air fry at 180°C (356°F) for 20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.

  • Cook the Pasta:

    • Boil macaroni in salted water for 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.

  • Make the Cheese Sauce:

    • In a saucepan over medium heat, simmer the milk. Add cream cheese, mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk continuously.
    • Add 100ml of reserved pasta water to the pan. Simmer until the sauce thickens.
    • Stir in the macaroni, and if needed, add a little more pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
    • Mix in mozzarella.

  • Grill the Mac & Cheese:

    • Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top. Grill for 5–8 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.

  • Assemble and Serve:

    • Divide mac and cheese into two portions. Slice the crispy chicken and place on top. Garnish with grated Parmesan and parsley.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
  • Experiment with adding your favorite veggies like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients.
  • Use the oven if you don’t have an air fryer; bake at 200°C (392°F) for 20-25 minutes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://deliceflash.com/crispy-chicken-mac-cheese/