KFC Mac & Cheese Wrap: Copycat Recipe & Ultimate Review!
Get ready to wrap your head (and your hands!) around the latest KFC craze: the Mac & Cheese Wrap. This portable comfort food sensation is taking the fast-food world by storm, and for good reason – it’s a creamy, cheesy, and undeniably delicious handheld treat. But what if you can’t get your hands on one, or just want to recreate that KFC magic in your own kitchen? You’ve come to the right place! This blog post will not only dissect the KFC Mac & Cheese Wrap, giving you a detailed review and breakdown of its flavors and textures, but also provide you with a step-by-step guide to making your very own copycat version. Plus, we’ll explore variations, tips, and tricks to elevate your wrap game to the next level. So, ditch the drive-thru and let’s get cooking!
## What is the KFC Mac & Cheese Wrap All About?
The KFC Mac & Cheese Wrap is essentially a miniaturized version of classic comfort food, perfectly packaged for on-the-go enjoyment. It features KFC’s signature macaroni and cheese, often paired with crispy chicken tenders or nuggets, all snugly wrapped in a warm tortilla. The combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and savory chicken creates a satisfying and flavorful experience that’s hard to resist.
While the exact ingredients and proportions are KFC’s closely guarded secret, we can definitely reverse-engineer this culinary creation to achieve a remarkably similar result at home. Our copycat recipe focuses on capturing the essence of each component: the creamy, tangy mac and cheese; the perfectly seasoned, crispy chicken; and the warm, pliable tortilla.
## KFC Mac & Cheese Wrap Review: A Taste Test
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s break down what makes the KFC Mac & Cheese Wrap so appealing. Here’s a detailed review:
* **Mac & Cheese:** The foundation of the wrap is, of course, the mac and cheese. KFC’s version is known for its creamy texture and tangy cheese sauce. It’s not overly sharp, but has a noticeable cheesy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
* **Chicken:** The crispy chicken tenders or nuggets add a savory and textural element to the wrap. The breading provides a satisfying crunch, while the chicken itself is tender and juicy. The seasoning blend used on the chicken is crucial for replicating the KFC flavor profile. A blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of black pepper often works wonders.
* **Tortilla:** The tortilla acts as the perfect vessel, holding everything together while providing a soft and slightly chewy texture. It should be warmed to enhance its pliability and prevent it from cracking when wrapped.
* **Overall Impression:** The KFC Mac & Cheese Wrap is a well-balanced combination of creamy, cheesy, savory, and crunchy textures. It’s a comforting and satisfying snack or light meal that’s perfect for a quick bite on the go.
## Copycat KFC Mac & Cheese Wrap Recipe
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: recreating the KFC Mac & Cheese Wrap in your own kitchen. This recipe provides a detailed guide to each component, ensuring a delicious and authentic result.
**Yields:** 4 wraps
**Prep time:** 30 minutes
**Cook time:** 25 minutes
### Ingredients:
**For the Mac & Cheese:**
* 1 pound elbow macaroni
* 6 tablespoons butter
* 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
* 1/2 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed (optional, for extra creaminess)
**For the Crispy Chicken:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips or nuggets
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1/4 cup milk
* Vegetable oil, for frying
**For the Wraps:**
* 4 large flour tortillas
### Equipment:
* Large pot
* Saucepan
* Shallow dishes for breading
* Large skillet or deep fryer
* Tongs
* Baking sheet (optional, for keeping wraps warm)
### Instructions
**Part 1: Making the Mac & Cheese**
1. **Cook the Macaroni:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the macaroni and set aside.
2. **Make the Roux:** While the macaroni is cooking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until a smooth paste forms (this is called a roux). Cook the roux for another minute to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly.
3. **Add the Milk:** Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, making sure to smooth out any lumps before adding more. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken.
4. **Season the Sauce:** Add the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the sauce. Stir to combine.
5. **Add the Cheese:** Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and Velveeta cheese (if using), stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. **Combine Macaroni and Cheese:** Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat. Set aside and keep warm.
**Part 2: Making the Crispy Chicken**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch strips or nuggets. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. **Set up Breading Station:** In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). In another shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk.
3. **Bread the Chicken:** Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it completely. Press the flour onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
4. **Fry the Chicken:** Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the skillet.
5. **Cook the Chicken:** Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. **Drain the Chicken:** Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess oil.
**Part 3: Assembling the Wraps**
1. **Warm the Tortillas:** Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds until they are pliable.
2. **Assemble the Wraps:** Place a tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon about 1/2 cup of mac and cheese onto the center of the tortilla. Top with 3-4 pieces of crispy chicken.
3. **Wrap it Up:** Fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then fold up the bottom edge and roll tightly to create a wrap.
4. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the wraps immediately while they are warm. You can also wrap them in foil or parchment paper to keep them warm if you’re not serving them right away.
## Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Mac & Cheese Wrap
* **Cheese Selection:** Experiment with different cheese combinations for the mac and cheese. Gruyere, sharp cheddar, or smoked gouda can add unique flavor profiles.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mac and cheese for a spicy kick.
* **Chicken Variations:** Instead of frying the chicken, you can bake it in the oven for a healthier option. Toss the breaded chicken in a little olive oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. You can also use pre-cooked chicken tenders or nuggets for convenience.
* **Add Veggies:** Incorporate some vegetables into the wrap for added nutrients and flavor. Steamed broccoli, chopped tomatoes, or sauteed spinach are all great options.
* **Sauce it Up:** Drizzle your favorite sauce over the mac and cheese and chicken before wrapping. Ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard are all delicious choices.
* **Prevent Soggy Wraps:** To prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy, avoid overfilling them with mac and cheese. You can also lightly brush the inside of the tortilla with melted butter before adding the filling to create a moisture barrier.
* **Make Ahead:** The mac and cheese and crispy chicken can be made ahead of time and stored separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble the wraps, simply reheat the components and proceed with the instructions.
* **Toasting the Wraps:** For a more crispy exterior, you can toast the assembled wraps in a panini press or dry skillet for a few minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly flattened.
* **Get Creative with Fillings:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with other fillings. Try adding crumbled bacon, jalapenos, or caramelized onions for a unique twist. Consider adding a small amount of shredded lettuce for added crunch and freshness.
* **Adjust Seasonings:** Always taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to achieve the desired flavor.
## Mac & Cheese Wrap Variations
* **Spicy Mac & Cheese Wrap:** Add jalapenos, sriracha, or cayenne pepper to the mac and cheese for a fiery kick.
* **BBQ Chicken Mac & Cheese Wrap:** Use BBQ sauce instead of the flour mixture when breading the chicken. Use a smoky cheddar for the mac & cheese.
* **Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese Wrap:** Toss the crispy chicken in buffalo wing sauce before adding it to the wrap. Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
* **Bacon Mac & Cheese Wrap:** Add crumbled bacon to the mac and cheese and sprinkle it over the chicken before wrapping.
* **Veggie Mac & Cheese Wrap:** Add steamed broccoli, chopped tomatoes, or sauteed spinach to the mac and cheese for a vegetarian option. Consider adding black beans or corn.
* **Italian Mac & Cheese Wrap:** Add sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, and mozzarella cheese to the mac and cheese.
## Serving Suggestions
The KFC Mac & Cheese Wrap is a satisfying meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to complete your dining experience:
* **Side Salad:** A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the wrap.
* **Coleslaw:** Coleslaw adds a creamy and crunchy texture that complements the mac and cheese and chicken.
* **French Fries:** A classic pairing with any fast-food meal.
* **Sweet Potato Fries:** A healthier alternative to regular french fries.
* **Potato Salad:** A creamy and tangy potato salad is a great side dish for a picnic or barbecue.
* **Corn on the Cob:** A summertime favorite that pairs well with the flavors of the wrap.
* **Fruit Salad:** A refreshing and healthy way to end your meal.
* **Beverages:** Pair your wrap with your favorite beverage, such as soda, iced tea, or lemonade.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
*Note: This is an approximate estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.*
* **Calories:** 500-700
* **Fat:** 25-35g
* **Saturated Fat:** 10-15g
* **Cholesterol:** 100-150mg
* **Sodium:** 1000-1500mg
* **Carbohydrates:** 50-70g
* **Fiber:** 2-4g
* **Sugar:** 5-10g
* **Protein:** 20-30g
## Conclusion
The KFC Mac & Cheese Wrap is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy classic comfort food on the go. While it’s readily available at KFC restaurants, this copycat recipe allows you to recreate the experience in your own kitchen. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can make a batch of these wraps for a satisfying snack, light meal, or party appetizer. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness of the KFC Mac & Cheese Wrap, homemade style!