Name: Classic Southern Fried Chicken with Macaroni and Cheese
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs; 4 chicken drumsticks; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Crispy fried chicken with a rich, creamy macaroni and cheese, perfect for a hearty meal.

Method

In a large bowl, mix buttermilk with chicken. Let marinate for 1 hour.
In another bowl, combine flour, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Dredge chicken in flour mixture, pressing to coat well.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 12-15 minutes.
Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in milk, then cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Mix macaroni into cheese sauce. Serve with fried chicken.
Before serving, check that the thickest part of the poultry reaches 74°C (165°F) with a food thermometer.