Macaroni With The Chicken Strips

Macaroni and Chicken Strips: A Comfort Food Classic Reimagined

Macaroni and cheese, a beloved comfort food, is often elevated with the addition of crispy, flavorful chicken strips. This simple combination offers a satisfying meal for both kids and adults, balancing creamy richness with savory protein. This article delves into the art of creating the perfect macaroni and chicken strips dish, exploring various recipes, techniques, and tips to help you master this culinary classic. We'll cover everything from selecting the best ingredients to achieving that perfect crispy chicken and creamy macaroni. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners!

Understanding the Core Components

Before we dive into specific recipes, let's break down the two key components: the macaroni and cheese, and the chicken strips.

The Macaroni and Cheese: A Creamy Foundation

The foundation of this dish lies in the macaroni and cheese. The quality of your cheese directly impacts the overall flavor. While classic cheddar is always a winner, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a blend for a more complex flavor profile. The cooking method also matters. Some prefer a stovetop approach for a quicker preparation, while others opt for a baked version for a richer, creamier texture. The choice is yours, depending on your time constraints and preferred consistency. Remember to use high-quality pasta for the best results. Avoid overcooking the pasta, aiming for an al dente texture that still holds its shape when combined with the creamy sauce.

The Chicken Strips: Crispy Perfection

The chicken strips provide a savory contrast to the creamy macaroni. The key to perfect chicken strips is achieving that golden-brown, crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. This can be accomplished through various breading techniques, from a simple flour-egg-bread crumb mixture to more elaborate recipes incorporating spices and herbs. The choice of chicken is also crucial. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures even cooking and avoids excessive fat. Marination can significantly enhance the flavor of the chicken, adding depth and tenderness.

Recipe Variations: From Classic to Gourmet

Here are a few variations on the macaroni and chicken strips theme, catering to different tastes and skill levels:

1. The Classic Comfort Food: Simple Mac & Cheese with Crispy Chicken Strips

This recipe focuses on simplicity and ease of preparation.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Cook the macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce: Melt the butter in a saucepan. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened. Stir in the cheese, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.
3. Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into strips. Dredge the chicken strips in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Fry the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken strips in batches until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
5. Combine and serve: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat. Add the cooked chicken strips to the macaroni and cheese, stir gently, and serve immediately.

2. Elevated Mac & Cheese with Breaded Chicken and Roasted Vegetables

This recipe adds a touch of sophistication with roasted vegetables and a more flavorful cheese sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Assorted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers) chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the chopped vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender.
2. Prepare the macaroni and cheese sauce as in the classic recipe, but add Gruyere and Parmesan cheese to the sauce.
3. Prepare the chicken strips by coating them in a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Fry the chicken strips until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, roasted vegetables, and chicken strips. Serve immediately.

3. Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese

This recipe introduces a spicy kick with Buffalo wing sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the macaroni and cheese sauce as in the classic recipe, but stir in the Buffalo wing sauce along with the cheese.
2. Prepare and fry the chicken strips as in the classic recipe.
3. Combine the macaroni and cheese, and chicken strips. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with chopped celery and blue cheese dressing.

Tips for Success: Achieving Mac & Cheese Perfection

• Don't overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente pasta.
• Use good quality cheese: The flavor of the cheese is crucial.
• Stir the cheese sauce constantly: This prevents lumps from forming.
• Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken: This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
• Let the fried chicken rest: This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier chicken.
• Get creative with your vegetables: Add roasted vegetables, sautéed vegetables, or even steamed vegetables for added nutrients and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use different types of pasta?

A: Yes! While elbow macaroni is a classic choice, you can experiment with other shapes like shells, rotini, or even penne.

Q: Can I bake the macaroni and cheese?

A: Absolutely! Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: You can prepare the macaroni and cheese and the chicken strips separately ahead of time and then combine them just before serving. However, avoid combining them too far in advance, as the macaroni and cheese may become soggy.

Q: How can I make the chicken strips extra crispy?

A: Double-breading the chicken strips can help achieve extra crispiness. You can also use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan when frying, and allow the chicken to rest on a wire rack after frying to allow excess oil to drain.

Conclusion: A Versatile and Delicious Dish

Macaroni and chicken strips is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and preferences. From the classic comfort food version to more gourmet adaptations, the possibilities are endless. By following these guidelines and experimenting with different ingredients and techniques, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that your family and friends will love. Remember to have fun in the kitchen, and don't be afraid to experiment! The perfect recipe is often the one you create yourself.