If you’re a fan of Southern comfort food, you know there’s nothing more satisfying than a plate of crispy, spicy Nashville chicken paired with a creamy, cheesy serving of mac n cheese. This flavorful combo brings together the bold heat of Nashville hot chicken with the indulgent richness of Southern mac n cheese. It’s a dish that offers the perfect balance of spicy, crispy, and creamy goodness. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Table of Contents
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will help you recreate an iconic Southern feast right in your own home. From preparing the spicy chicken to crafting a velvety, cheesy mac n cheese, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this irresistible meal that’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
What is Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese?
Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese is a fusion of two iconic Southern dishes that are better together. The dish combines the crispy, spicy, and tender fried chicken from Nashville hot chicken with the rich, creamy flavors of Southern mac n cheese.
Nashville hot chicken is known for its intense heat, thanks to the cayenne pepper and special seasoning that are used in the marinade and coating. It originated in Nashville, Tennessee, as a local specialty and has since become popular across the country. Southern mac n cheese, on the other hand, is a comfort food staple, known for its cheesy sauce and comforting texture.
Together, these two dishes create a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures: the heat from the chicken is balanced by the cool, creamy mac n cheese. It’s a dish that satisfies both your craving for spice and comfort food all in one bite.
Steps to Prepare Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese
Key Ingredients for Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese
Before you begin, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make Nashville chicken with mac n cheese. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need for both the hot chicken and the mac n cheese:
| Nashville Hot Chicken Ingredients | Southern Mac n Cheese Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Chicken pieces (drumsticks or breasts) | Elbow macaroni |
| Buttermilk | Butter |
| Flour and cornmeal | All-purpose flour |
| Cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder | Milk (whole or evaporated) |
| Hot sauce (for marinade) | Sharp cheddar cheese |
| Pickle juice | Mozzarella cheese |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | Parmesan cheese |
| Brown sugar (for hot oil mix) | Salt and pepper |
Preparing the Nashville Hot Chicken
- Marinate the Chicken:
The first step to creating the ultimate Nashville hot chicken is marinating the chicken. To do this, soak your chicken pieces in a mixture of buttermilk and pickle juice for 2 to 4 hours. This step not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with flavor. - Season and Dredge:
Next, prepare your seasoning mix. Combine cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and salt to create a flavorful blend that will coat the chicken. In a separate bowl, mix flour and cornmeal. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour and cornmeal mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated. - Fry the Chicken:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Gently fry the chicken pieces until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside, ensuring they are fully cooked inside. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F. - Prepare the Nashville Hot Oil:
Once the chicken is fried, it’s time to make the Nashville hot oil. Combine hot oil with cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and hot sauce. Stir the ingredients together until well blended. This spicy oil mixture is what gives Nashville hot chicken its signature heat. - Coat the Chicken:
After frying, dip the hot chicken into the spicy oil mixture, making sure the chicken is well-coated. The result? A crispy, spicy, and flavorful chicken that’s perfect for pairing with creamy mac n cheese.
Preparing the Southern Mac n Cheese
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. - Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add flour and whisk constantly to create a roux. Gradually add milk to the roux, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. This is the base of your creamy cheese sauce. - Add the Cheese:
Stir in sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. - Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Stir the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, making sure the pasta is evenly coated. If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to add a little more milk. - Bake (Optional):
If you prefer baked mac n cheese, transfer the pasta and cheese mixture into a baking dish. Top with additional cheese and bake at 350°F until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Mac n Cheese Variations
While the traditional Southern mac n cheese is always a hit, you can customize it to suit your tastes. Here are some delicious mac n cheese variations to try:
- Smoked Mac n Cheese: Add a hint of smoky flavor by using smoked cheese or cooking the mac n cheese in a smoker.
- Bacon Mac n Cheese: For an extra savory twist, add crispy bacon bits to the mac n cheese.
- Spicy Mac n Cheese: If you love heat, add a few diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mac n cheese for an extra kick.
Why Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese is the Ultimate Comfort Meal
There’s something truly special about Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the dinner table, offering comfort, heat, and heartiness all at once. The spicy Nashville hot chicken pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy Southern mac n cheese, creating a flavor explosion that’s hard to beat.
This dish is not only perfect for a casual dinner but also for family gatherings, barbecues, and even special occasions. The combination of crispy fried chicken and creamy pasta is sure to satisfy your cravings for something indulgent and comforting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese
While Nashville chicken with mac n cheese is relatively easy to make, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:
- Overcrowding the Fryer:
Frying too many pieces of chicken at once can cause the oil temperature to drop, leading to greasy chicken. To achieve a crispy, golden exterior, fry the chicken in smaller batches. - Mac n Cheese Too Runny:
If your mac n cheese turns out too runny, it’s likely that the cheese sauce wasn’t thickened enough. Make sure to cook the roux until it’s smooth, and add cheese slowly to avoid a watery texture. - Underseasoning the Chicken:
Nashville hot chicken is all about flavor, so don’t be shy with the seasoning! Be sure to season the chicken well before frying and coat it generously with the spicy oil mixture afterward. - Overcooking the Chicken:
To ensure the chicken stays juicy on the inside, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken should reach 165°F to be fully cooked.
FAQs about Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese
Q1: Can I make Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, both components can be made ahead of time. You can fry the chicken and prepare the mac n cheese up to a day in advance. Just reheat both before serving.
Q2: How do I make Nashville hot chicken less spicy?
If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce in both the marinade and the hot oil mixture.
Q3: Can I use different cheeses for the mac n cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked cheese for added flavor.
Conclusion
Nashville Chicken with Mac n Cheese is the perfect fusion of heat and comfort. The combination of crispy Nashville hot chicken and creamy Southern mac n cheese is a match made in Southern food heaven. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just because, this meal is guaranteed to impress.
By following these easy steps and experimenting with some variations, you can enjoy this iconic dish in the comfort of your own home. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and indulge in a meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.