If you love rich, creamy, and cheesy comfort food, this Seafood Mac and Cheese is about to become your new favorite dish! Made with tender shrimp, succulent crab meat, and a velvety cheese sauce, this recipe is pure indulgence.
The combination of buttery seafood and gooey melted cheese creates an irresistible depth of flavor, making this dish perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. And the best part? You can customize it with your favorite seafood, whether it’s lobster, scallops, or even salmon!
This easy-to-make mac and cheese is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of the coast in every bite. The creamy, cheesy goodness paired with juicy seafood brings back memories of ocean breezes and sandy beaches.
Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a seafood lover’s dream meal, or even a holiday gathering, this Seafood Mac and Cheese is sure to impress. Grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this cheesy, seafood-infused delight!
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 beaten egg
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 4 teaspoons garlic salt
- 2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cup all-purpose flour
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INSTRUCTIONS:
1 ) Beat the egg and milk together in a bowl.
2 ) Combine the flour with the garlic salt, pepper, poultry seasoning and paprika in a big plastic bag.
3 ) Put the chicken in the bag, seal it and shake to coat it.
4 ) Dip the flour-coated chicken in the egg mixture and again in the flour mixture.
5 ) Heat the oil in a skillet to 365 degrees F. Brown the chicken on all sides in the hot oil.
6 ) Turn the heat down to medium-low and give the chicken another half an hour or until it is cooked through.
7 ) Drain it on paper towels and serve.
Pro Tips for the Best Southern Fried Chicken
- Brine for Extra Juiciness – Even a quick brine (30 minutes to an hour) enhances moisture and flavor. Try using buttermilk for a rich, tender texture.
- Season Every Step – Don’t just season the batter—season the brine, flour, and even the chicken itself for maximum flavor.
- Double Dip for Extra Crunch – For an extra crispy coating, dip the chicken twice in the batter before frying.
- Let the Batter Rest – Allow the battered chicken to rest for 10 minutes before frying to help the coating stick better.
- Use the Right Oil – Fry in peanut oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil for the best crisp texture and flavor.
- Fry at the Right Temperature – Keep oil at 350°F (175°C) to ensure crispy, golden results without an oily texture.
- Drain on a Wire Rack – Skip the paper towels! Let fried chicken rest on a wire rack to keep the crust crunchy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry in batches so the oil stays hot and the chicken cooks evenly.
- Let It Rest Before Serving – Give the fried chicken 5-10 minutes to set before serving—it helps the juices settle and keeps the crust crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Southern Fried Chicken
1. Why brine the chicken before frying?
- Brining helps the chicken stay juicy and tender while adding extra flavor. A buttermilk brine is a great option for an even richer taste.
2. Can I make Southern Fried Chicken without buttermilk?
- Yes! While buttermilk adds flavor and tenderness, you can use a mix of milk and lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
3. What’s the best oil for frying chicken?
- Use peanut oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil—they have high smoke points and create a crispy crust without overpowering the flavor.
4. How do I make sure the coating stays on the chicken?
- Let the battered chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying, and make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before adding the chicken.
5. Can I bake instead of fry?
- Yes! To bake, coat the chicken in panko breadcrumbs after battering, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway.
6. How do I keep fried chicken crispy?
- Drain it on a wire rack, not paper towels. Also, avoid covering it with foil, as it traps steam and softens the crust.
7. How long does fried chicken last?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep it crispy.
8. Can I freeze fried chicken?
- Yes! Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for best results.
9. What should I serve with Southern Fried Chicken?
- It pairs perfectly with biscuits, mac and cheese, coleslaw, mashed potatoes, cornbread, or collard greens.
10. How can I add extra spice to my fried chicken?
- Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or smoked paprika to the batter for a kick of heat. You can also drizzle with hot honey or serve with a spicy dipping sauce.
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