Introduction

Mac N Cheese and Popcorn Chicken is the ultimate comfort food combination that brings together creamy, cheesy pasta and crispy, flavorful chicken. This recipe is perfect for those who love hearty, satisfying meals that are easy to make and bursting with flavor. Ideal for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or a fun weekend treat, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Description

This dish features popcorn chicken, seasoned with a blend of spices and coated in a crispy breading, paired with rich and creamy mac n cheese. The mac n cheese is made with a combination of low-fat milk, light cream cheese, reduced-fat burger cheese, and grated mozzarella, creating a deliciously creamy sauce that clings to every piece of macaroni. Garnished with a sprinkle of chili flakes or black pepper, and served with buttered corn on the cob, this meal offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Ingredients For Mac N Cheese and Popcorn Chicken

For the Popcorn Chicken:

• 700g Chicken Breast (diced into bite-size pieces)
• 100g Plain Flour (use 40g for tracking – not all is used)
• 1 Tsp Paprika
• 1 Tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 Tsp Onion Powder
• 1 Tsp Oregano
• 1 Tsp Ginger Powder
• 1 Tsp Black Pepper
• 1 Tsp Salt
• 1 Egg
• 1 Tsp Dijon Mustard
• Cooking Spray

For the KFC Mac N Cheese:

• 600g Cooked Macaroni (300g uncooked)
• 200ml Low-Fat Milk
• 80ml Reserved Pasta Water (from macaroni)
• 35g Light Cream Cheese (brand: Philadelphia lightest)
• 40g Reduced-Fat Burger Cheese (2 slices, brand: Tesco)
• 1 Tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 Tsp Onion Powder
• 1 Tsp Dijon Mustard
• 35g Grated Mozzarella

Optional Ingredients:

• Chili Flakes or Black Pepper (for garnish)
• Buttered Corn on the Cob (to serve)

Recipe by@panaceapalm

Step-by-Step Making Instructions

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

1. Prepare the Popcorn Chicken:
   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
   • In a bowl, combine the plain flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, ginger powder, black pepper, and salt.
   • In another bowl, beat the egg with the Dijon mustard.
   • Dip each piece of diced chicken into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture to ensure a good coating.
   • Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray.
   • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
2. Prepare the Macaroni:
   • Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 80ml of the pasta water, and set aside.
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a large saucepan, heat the low-fat milk over medium heat.
   • Add the light cream cheese, reduced-fat burger cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard. Stir continuously until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.
   • Add the reserved pasta water and grated mozzarella, stirring until fully incorporated.
4. Combine and Serve:
   • Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated with the sauce.
   • Serve the mac n cheese hot, alongside the crispy popcorn chicken.
   • Garnish with chili flakes or a crack of black pepper for an extra kick.
5. Optional:
   • Serve with buttered corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for Perfect Mac N Cheese and Popcorn Chicken

• Even Coating: Ensure each piece of chicken is evenly coated with the flour mixture and egg for the best crunch.
• Flavorful Sauce: Adjust the consistency of the cheese sauce by adding more milk or pasta water if it is too thick.
• Crispy Chicken: For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken pieces for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Nutrition Information About Mac N Cheese and Popcorn Chicken

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	650
Total Fat	25g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	120mg
Sodium	1000mg
Total Carbohydrate	60g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Sugars	8g
Protein	45g

Health Concerns About Mac N Cheese and Popcorn Chicken

While Mac N Cheese and Popcorn Chicken are delicious treats, consider the following health aspects:

• Sodium Content: This dish contains salt in various components. Adjust as needed if you are monitoring your sodium intake.
• Fat Content: Using low-fat milk and light cheeses helps manage the fat content, but be mindful of portion sizes.
• Caloric Content: This dish is relatively high in calories, so balance it with other meals accordingly.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Flavorful: A delicious combination of creamy mac n cheese and crispy popcorn chicken.
• Visually Appealing: Golden brown chicken and cheesy macaroni make this dish a feast for the eyes.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for a quick meal with minimal cleanup.

Cons:

• Preparation Time: Requires time for coating and baking the chicken and preparing the mac n cheese.
• High Sodium Content: May be high in sodium, so adjust the seasoning if needed.
• Caloric Content: High in calories, which may require careful portion control for those on a strict calorie-controlled diet.

FAQs

Can I use different types of meat for this dish?

You can substitute the chicken with turkey tenders or even tofu for a different flavor and texture.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the popcorn chicken coating and the cheese sauce for extra heat.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for the chicken and gluten-free pasta for the mac n cheese.

What can I serve with Mac N Cheese and Popcorn Chicken?

This dish pairs well with a side salad, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can coat the chicken pieces and prepare the cheese sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and cook just before serving.

Can I use regular dairy products instead of dairy-free?

If you are not following a dairy-free diet, you can use regular dairy products.

Conclusion

Mac N Cheese and Popcorn Chicken is the ultimate comfort food combination that brings together creamy, cheesy pasta and crispy, flavorful chicken. This recipe is perfect for those who love hearty, satisfying meals that are easy to make and bursting with flavor. Ideal for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or a fun weekend treat, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with loved ones, and savor every bite of this flavorful, nutritious meal.

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