As I flipped through old family recipes, I stumbled upon a dish that always made my heart race: Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese. This comfort food classic brings together crispy chicken strips glazed with a sweet and spicy sauce, perfectly paired with a creamy, cheesy macaroni that feels like a warm hug. The beauty of this meal lies not just in its mouthwatering flavors, but also in its quick prep time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or laid-back family gatherings. Plus, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds and thirds. Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this delicious duo? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is this dish a must-try? Crispy Perfection: The hot honey chicken tenders are fried to golden-brown perfection, delivering a delightful crunch with every bite. Sweet and Spicy Glory: The glaze’s unique blend of honey and hot sauce creates a tantalizing balance that elevates the chicken beyond the ordinary. Comforting Creaminess: Paired with rich, cheesy baked mac and cheese, this meal brings together two beloved comfort foods that everyone will adore. Quick and Simple: With minimal prep time, you can whip up this flavor-packed dish even on the busiest weeknights, ensuring no compromise on taste. Crowd Favorite: This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or friendly get-togethers, making it a surefire way to please any palate. Serve it alongside a crunchy salad, or enjoy it as your indulgent main course! Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Ingredients For the Chicken Tenders • Chicken Tenders – A primary protein source; can substitute with boneless chicken breasts if desired. • Buttermilk – Helps tenderize chicken and aids breading adherence; milk with lemon juice makes a great substitute. • All-Purpose Flour – Forms a crispy coating; use a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-sensitive diners. • Paprika – Adds a mild heat and vibrant color to the breading. • Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully. • Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences. • Oil – Used for frying; prefer neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil for the best results. For the Hot Honey Glaze • Honey – Brings sweetness to the glaze, making the chicken irresistibly delicious. • Hot Sauce – For that spicy kick; Frank’s RedHot is recommended, but feel free to adjust the quantity to meet your heat preference. • Butter (melted) – Adds richness and helps blend all flavors in the glaze seamlessly. For the Baked Mac and Cheese • Elbow Macaroni – The classic base for mac and cheese; cavatappi or penne also work well as substitutes. • Milk – Essential for forming the creamy cheese sauce. • Cheddar Cheese – Provides sharpness and creaminess, the star of the dish. • Mozzarella Cheese – Adds that delightful stretchy texture. • Breadcrumbs (optional) – Sprinkled on top for a crispy finish on the baked mac and cheese. Dive into these ingredients for an exciting cooking adventure featuring Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Start by placing your chicken tenders in a bowl and pouring buttermilk over them, ensuring they’re well-coated. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator; this helps tenderize the meat and ensures a juicy bite. As the chicken marinates, you can gather your other ingredients and equipment. Step 2: Prepare the Breading While the chicken is marinating, mix the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. This seasoned flour mixture will create a crispy coating for your hot honey chicken tenders. Stir until evenly combined to ensure every bite has wonderful flavor. Step 3: Dredge the Chicken After 30 minutes, take the marinated chicken tenders from the refrigerator. One by one, coat each tender in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the breading adheres well. Place the breaded tenders on a plate and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes; this helps the coating set for frying. Step 4: Heat the Oil In a heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to submerge the chicken tenders about halfway for even cooking. A deep-fry thermometer is ideal for maintaining the correct temperature; this ensures your chicken turns golden brown without being greasy. Step 5: Fry the Chicken Carefully lower the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil, frying in batches to prevent overcrowding. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Step 6: Make the Hot Honey Glaze In a small bowl, whisk together honey, hot sauce, and melted butter until smooth and well combined. This delicious glaze adds the sweet and spicy flavor that makes your hot honey chicken tenders irresistible. Set the glaze aside while you prepare the mac and cheese. Step 7: Glaze the Chicken Once the chicken is fried and crispy, brush the hot honey glaze generously over each tender while they are still hot. Flip the tenders to ensure both sides are coated beautifully with the glaze, allowing it to adhere as it cools slightly, creating a sticky and luscious finish. Step 8: Prepare the Mac and Cheese Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the macaroni and cheese. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, forming a creamy base. Step 9: Add the Cheese Once the base is thick, remove it from the heat and stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, giving the cheese sauce a delightful flavor that pairs perfectly with the pasta to create creamy baked mac and cheese. Step 10: Combine and Bake Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain. Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well combined. Transfer everything to a baking dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs if desired, and bake for about 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top. Make Ahead Options These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prep, ensuring you save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk for up to 24 hours in advance; this not only tenderizes the meat but also enhances its flavor. Additionally, the chicken can be breaded and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before frying. To preserve their crunch, reheat the tenders in the oven instead of the microwave. You can also prepare the mac and cheese sauce 2-3 days ahead; just combine it with the cooked pasta and bake when you’re ready to enjoy your comforting meal! Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delicious recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs! Mild Version: Reduce the amount of hot sauce for a kid-friendly, milder glaze. Perfect for little diners who may be sensitive to spice. Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed veggies such as spinach or bell peppers to the macaroni and cheese for added nutrition and flavor. This twist brings a vibrant color and texture to each comforting bite. Pasta Variety: Swap elbow macaroni for fun shapes like shells or fusilli to keep things exciting. Different pasta offers new textures that kids and adults will love. Air Fry for Health: For a healthier twist, cook the chicken tenders in an air fryer instead of frying them, using a light spray of oil for that crispy finish. You won’t miss the deep fryer at all! Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheese varieties for the mac and cheese, such as Gruyère or pepper jack, to add unique flavors. This creates a delightful fusion and elevates your classic dish! Spicy Glaze Upgrade: For extra heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the hot honey glaze. Your taste buds will thank you for this fiery distinction. Sweet Potato Mac: Incorporate sweet potato puree into your mac and cheese for a sweet and creamy twist. Not only does it enhance the flavor, but it also packs your dish with extra nutrients. Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle some crushed cornflakes or panko bread crumbs on top of your mac and cheese before baking for an extra crunch that complements the creaminess perfectly. If you’re looking for more ideas, consider pairing these chicken tenders with a fresh salad or dive into another flavorful adventure with Hot Honey Chicken or the irresistible Hot Orange Chicken. Happy cooking! How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain the flavor of your hot honey chicken tenders as you enjoy them throughout the week. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken tenders after frying but before glazing. Wrap them tightly in foil or freezer bags for up to 2 months to preserve their crunch. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat chicken tenders in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and crispy again. This prevents sogginess, ensuring delicious bites every time. Mac and Cheese Storage: Store any leftover baked mac and cheese in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop with a splash of milk for creaminess. Expert Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Maintain Crispiness: Ensure that any leftover chicken tenders are reheated in the oven instead of the microwave for maximum crispiness. Avoid Sogginess: Regularly check the oil temperature while frying to avoid soggy chicken. Use a thermometer to keep it at 350°F (175°C). Cover for Even Baking: When baking the mac and cheese, cover it with foil in the first half of the cooking time to prevent over-browning while ensuring thorough cooking. Customize Your Flavors: Feel free to add different cheeses in the mac and cheese or mix in breadcrumbs for a delightful, crispy topping. Serving Temperature: Serve your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders and Baked Mac and Cheese immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture! What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese Imagine a delightful spread that perfectly balances the crispy and spicy chicken with creamy comfort—what more could you need? Fresh Green Salad: Crisp greens dressed lightly in vinaigrette bring freshness, cutting through the richness of the meal for a balanced dining experience. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy cabbage and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the succulent chicken tenders, enhancing every bite. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery, and garlicky, these delightful bites are perfect for soaking up the creamy cheese sauce, adding a savory twist. Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweet, tender interior pairs beautifully with the spicy chicken, creating a wonderful mix of flavors. Corn on the Cob: Juicy and sweet, grilled or boiled corn adds a nostalgic, summery element that complements this hearty dish perfectly. Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing beverages like iced tea or zesty lemonade help cleanse the palate and keep the dining experience bright, especially on warmer nights. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, classic cookies warm from the oven provide the perfect sweet finale, balancing the meal’s savory notes and leaving everyone smiling. Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs How do I select the best chicken tenders? Absolutely! When choosing chicken tenders, look for those that are pink in color and have no dark spots. Fresh tenders should feel moist and firm. If you’re using boneless chicken breasts as a substitute, make sure they are not overly large for even cooking. How should I store leftover hot honey chicken tenders? To keep your chicken tenders at their best, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method will help maintain the flavor and texture. To restore their crunch, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) instead of the microwave. Can I freeze hot honey chicken tenders? Very! To freeze, ensure the chicken tenders are completely cooled after frying. Wrap them tightly in foil or place them in freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, do not glaze them before freezing. Simply reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and crispy. What if my mac and cheese is too thick after baking? If you find your macaroni and cheese is too thick, don’t worry! Gradually add a bit of milk while reheating it in the oven or on the stovetop until you reach your desired creamy consistency. This little trick keeps your dish velvety and enjoyable. Are there any allergies I should be aware of with this recipe? Absolutely! This recipe contains common allergens like dairy (butter, milk, and cheese) and gluten (all-purpose flour). If you’re serving someone with allergies, consider using a gluten-free flour blend and lactose-free dairy alternatives to ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious comfort food. How can I make this dish healthier? The more the merrier! For a healthier spin, you can use skinless chicken breasts instead of tenders, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) rather than frying, and swap some of the cheese in the macaroni for lower-fat options. You can also incorporate sautéed vegetables into your mac and cheese for a nutritional boost. Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese This Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese recipe combines crispy chicken strips and creamy mac, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsMarinating Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 750 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Ingredients1 pound Chicken Tenders Can substitute with boneless chicken breasts if desired.1 cup Buttermilk Milk with lemon juice can be used as a substitute.1 cup All-Purpose Flour Use a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-sensitive diners.1 teaspoon Paprika1 teaspoon Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to your taste preferences.1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to your taste preferences.Oil Neutral oil (like canola or vegetable) Used for frying.1/2 cup Honey1/4 cup Hot Sauce Frank’s RedHot recommended.2 tablespoons Butter (melted)Baked Mac and Cheese Ingredients2 cups Elbow Macaroni Cavatappi or penne also work well as substitutes.2 cups Milk Essential for forming the creamy cheese sauce.2 cups Cheddar Cheese Provides sharpness and creaminess.1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Adds delightful stretchy texture.1/2 cup Breadcrumbs Optional for a crispy finish. Equipment large mixing bowlHeavy-Bottomed Skillet or Deep FryerMedium saucepanbaking dishthermometer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsStart by placing your chicken tenders in a bowl and pouring buttermilk over them, ensuring they’re well-coated. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.Mix the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl.One by one, coat each tender in the flour mixture, pressing firmly. Place the breaded tenders on a plate and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes.Heat oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).Carefully lower the chicken tenders into the hot oil, frying for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.In a small bowl, whisk together honey, hot sauce, and melted butter until smooth.Brush the hot honey glaze generously over each fried tender.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the macaroni and cheese.In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring until thickened.Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted.Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain, and mix with the cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake for about 20 minutes. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 750kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 45gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 450mgIron: 2mg NotesServe your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders and Baked Mac and Cheese immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken tenders in the oven to retain crispiness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
