This dish combines crispy fried chicken with a rich, boozy Hennessy glaze, all served over a spicy Cajun macaroni and cheese. It’s a decadent meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
For the Krispy Fried Chicken:
4-6 chicken thighs or drumsticks
2 cups buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Hennessy Glaze:
1/2 cup Hennessy cognac
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Cajun Macaroni and Cheese:
8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
2 cups milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
1/4 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken in a large bowl or ziplock bag and pour the buttermilk over it. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
2. Prepare the Cajun Macaroni and Cheese:
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni. Pour into a baking dish and, if desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Broil for 2-3 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.
Keep warm until ready to serve.
3. Fry the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, and dredge it in the seasoned flour, pressing to adhere.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Drain on paper towels.
4. Prepare the Hennessy Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the Hennessy, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, butter, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Glaze the Chicken:
Once the chicken is fried and drained, brush the Hennessy glaze over each piece, ensuring they are well coated.
6. Assemble the Dish:
Serve the glazed fried chicken over a generous portion of Cajun macaroni and cheese. Garnish with sliced green onions.
Notes:
For an extra kick, you can add hot sauce to the glaze or spice up the macaroni and cheese with additional Cajun seasoning.
This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness.
Prep Time: 30 mins | Cooking Time: 45 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins | Kcal: ~1,200 per serving (depending on portion size) | Servings: 4
This Krispy Fried Chicken Glazed with Hennessy Over Cajun Macaroni and Cheese is a flavor-packed dish combining the crunch of fried chicken with a sweet and spicy glaze, all on a bed of creamy, cheesy pasta with a kick. Enjoy this indulgent and satisfying meal!