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Fried Chicken Mac and Cheese Burger Recipe

Fried Chicken Mac and Cheese Burger Recipe

Fried chicken and mac and cheese are two of the most beloved comfort foods, and when combined into a burger, they create a crave-worthy masterpiece. This Fried Chicken Mac and Cheese Burger recipe brings together crispy fried chicken, creamy macaroni and cheese, and a drizzle of barbecue sauce all nestled in a soft sesame seed bun. Perfect for gatherings or a hearty weeknight dinner, this burger is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This burger is a flavor explosion that combines the crunch of fried chicken with the creamy richness of mac and cheese. It’s indulgent, fun, and perfect for a crowd.

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  • Easy to make and customize.
  • Great for parties or family dinners.
  • Combines classic comfort foods in one delicious bite.
  • Can be made ahead and assembled just before serving.

Ingredients

  • 2 large chicken breasts
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup macaroni pasta
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 4 sesame seed burger buns
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

How to Make Fried Chicken Mac and Cheese Burger

  1. Start by marinating the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
  2. While the chicken is marinating, cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the milk and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked macaroni and mix until everything is well-coated. Set aside.
  4. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
  5. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
  6. To assemble the burgers, place a fried chicken breast on the bottom half of each sesame seed bun. Top each with a generous scoop of mac and cheese, followed by a drizzle of barbecue sauce. Place the top bun on and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Results

  • For extra crunch, double-dredge the chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again before frying.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for a creamier mac and cheese.
  • Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to prevent it from becoming greasy.

Easy Variations

  • Swap out the cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
  • Add crispy bacon bits to the mac and cheese for extra flavor.
  • Top the burger with pickles or coleslaw for added crunch and tang.

What to Serve With It

  • Sweet potato fries or regular fries for a classic side.
  • A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
  • Grilled corn on the cob for a summer twist.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the fried chicken in the oven at 350°F until heated through and reheat the mac and cheese on the stovetop or microwave.

Recipe Card

Fried Chicken Mac and Cheese Burger
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:

  • 2 large chicken breasts
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup macaroni pasta
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 4 sesame seed burger buns
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 1 hour.
  2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter, add milk, and stir in cheese until smooth. Mix in macaroni.
  4. Combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge chicken in the mixture.
  5. Fry chicken in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Assemble burgers with fried chicken, mac and cheese, and barbecue sauce.

Notes: Double-dredge for extra crunch.

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