Description
This Loaded Mac and Cheese Tower is comfort food on a whole new level! Crispy fried chicken cutlets are layered with ultra-creamy, triple-cheese macaroni and topped with smoky bacon and fresh herbs. It’s cheesy, crunchy, melty—and absolutely made to impress! Perfect for family dinners, special weekends, or whenever you’re craving something bold and satisfying. Stack it high and serve it proud!
Ingredients
For the Crispy Chicken Layers
2 large chicken breasts (sliced into cutlets)
1 cup flour
2 eggs (beaten)
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
Oil, for frying
For the Mac & Cheese
2 cups elbow macaroni (cooked al dente)
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk (warm)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese
½ cup Parmesan cheese
½ tsp mustard powder (optional, for flavor)
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Toppings
½ cup cooked bacon bits
2 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, chopped
Instructions
Prep the Chicken
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat well with the seasoned breadcrumbs.Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Fry each cutlet for 4–5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels or a wire rack to keep them crispy.Make the Mac and Cheese
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute, then slowly whisk in warm milk until thickened. Lower the heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until creamy and smooth. Add mustard powder (if using), season with salt and pepper, and fold in the cooked macaroni.Build the Tower
On a plate, start with a layer of mac and cheese. Place a crispy chicken cutlet on top, then add another layer of mac and cheese. Repeat to build 2–3 layers, ending with a final spoonful of cheesy pasta on top.
Top and Serve
Sprinkle with bacon bits and fresh herbs. Let the cheesy layers ooze for that mouthwatering tower effect. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!
Notes
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prep the chicken and mac and cheese a day ahead. Just reheat and stack before serving!
Baking Option: Prefer not to fry? Bake chicken cutlets at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Cheese Swap Ideas: Try fontina, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor spin.
Vegetarian Variation: Use breaded eggplant or crispy tofu instead of chicken—and skip the bacon.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with a light salad or roasted veggies to balance the richness of the dish.