Fried Chicken Mac & Cheese recipe served on a plate, by Thirsty Lion
Sep 17 2026
Restaurants›Thirsty Lion›Fried Chicken Mac & Cheese Recipe

Fried Chicken Mac & Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Thirsty Lion
Time1h
Serves4

Cheddar, Jack, Swiss and parmesan cheeses, cavatappi pasta and toasted bread crumbs topped with jalapeño buttermilk fried chicken.

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Method

Pasta Preparation

  1. 1

    Cook the Pasta

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cheese Sauce Preparation

  1. 2

    Make the Cheese Sauce

    In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened. Stir in the cheddar, jack, swiss, and parmesan cheeses until melted. Season with black pepper. Remove from heat.

Fried Chicken Preparation

  1. 3

    Prepare the Chicken

    In a bowl, combine buttermilk and minced jalapeño. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

  2. 4

    Fry the Chicken

    In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Assembly

  1. 5

    Combine and Serve

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat the pasta. Serve the mac and cheese topped with slices of fried chicken. Sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs and chopped parsley.

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