Saffron Crusted Chicken Tikka Mac and Cheese: A Flavorful Fusion Delight!

If you love mac and cheese but crave a bold, flavorful twist, this Saffron Crusted Chicken Tikka Mac and Cheese is the perfect fusion dish! The rich, aromatic flavors of chicken tikka, paired with the luxurious creaminess of saffron-infused mac and cheese, will leave your taste buds begging for more. Topped with crispy onions for an irresistible crunch, this dish combines the best of both worlds—Indian-inspired spices with classic comfort food.

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup plain yogurt

2 tbsp tikka masala paste

1/4 tsp turmeric powder

1 pinch saffron threads (soaked in warm water)

2 cups elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp flour

2 cups milk

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup crispy fried onions (for topping)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a bowl, mix the chicken with yogurt, tikka masala paste, turmeric powder, and a pinch of saffron (with the water). Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a hot skillet, cook the marinated chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the saffron-infused water and let it simmer until the sauce thickens. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.

Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce, stirring until everything is well-coated. Season with salt and pepper.

Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish, sprinkle with crispy fried onions, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Dish out the saffron-crusted chicken tikka mac and cheese and enjoy this bold fusion of flavors!

This Saffron Crusted Chicken Tikka Mac and Cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food with a twist! Whether you're a fan of Indian cuisine, mac and cheese, or both, this dish brings them together in the most delicious way. Don't forget to top it off with crispy onions for that perfect crunch. This flavorful dish is sure to become a family favorite—your taste buds won’t know what hit them! Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or when you just need something comforting and satisfying.