Nashville Hot Chicken Mac and Cheese Bowls

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/4 cup hot sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• Green onions, for garnish

Steps

1. 1 Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. 2 Preheat oven to 375°F.
3. 3 In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour, then slowly add milk to create a roux.
4. 4 Stir in smoked paprika and cayenne pepper, then gradually add cheeses until melted.
5. 5 Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and transfer to oven-safe bowls.
6. 6 In a bowl, mix hot sauce, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper to coat chicken thighs.
7. 7 Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry chicken until golden and crispy, about 5-6 minutes per side.
8. 8 Place chicken on top of mac and cheese in bowls.
9. 9 Bake for 15 minutes until bubbly.
10. 10 Garnish with green onions before serving.

Equipment

• Large pot
• Oven-safe bowls
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Baking sheet

Variations

• Add diced jalapeños to the mac for an extra kick.
• Substitute chicken with crispy tofu for a vegetarian option.

Substitutions

• If sharp cheddar is unavailable, use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
• Use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for frying.

Pairings

• Cornbread on the side
• Pickled okra for a tangy crunch

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra spice, add more cayenne pepper to taste.
• Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven until bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with a cold beer or sweet tea.

FAQ