Name: Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken tenders; 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating); 1 cup all-purpose flour (for coating); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder (consider fresh garlic for stronger flavor); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup oil (for frying, use canola oil); 1/2 cup honey (for glaze); 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons butter (melted for glaze); 1 cup elbow macaroni (for mac and cheese); 2 cups milk (for cheese sauce); 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded); 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for mac and cheese)

The tantalizing aroma of crispy chicken sizzling in hot oil transports me to warm Southern kitchens where comfort food reigns supreme. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese, a dish that perfectly marries the crispy, juicy goodness of chicken tenders glazed in a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce with the rich, velvety embrace of homemade macaroni and cheese. Not only is this recipe a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a breeze to whip up, making it ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Can you imagine sharing this comforting plate filled with vibrant flavors and satisfying textures with loved ones? Grab your apron, and let’s dive into creating this delightful feast!

Why You’ll Crave This Dish

Comforting, this Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese dish delivers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that you’ll want to enjoy again and again. Crispy and Juicy, the chicken tenders are perfectly fried to golden perfection, then coated in a sweet and spicy glaze that makes every bite unforgettable. Creamy Goodness, the macaroni and cheese provides a luscious, cheesy contrast that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. Family-Friendly, this recipe is a hit for kids and adults alike, perfect for game nights or cozy dinners. And best of all, Quick and Easy, it comes together in no time, so you can spend more moments enjoying your meal rather than stressing in the kitchen! For another comforting option, check out my Hot Orange Chicken for a tasty twist!

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Ingredients

• Dive into the world of flavors with this delightful chicken dish!

Chicken Tenders: – The main protein source that guarantees tenderness and juiciness.
Buttermilk: – Essential for marinating, enhancing the chicken’s moisture and tender texture.
All-Purpose Flour: – The secret to a crispy coating that encases the juicy chicken.
Paprika: – Adds a subtle smokiness and vibrant color to the chicken.
Garlic Powder: – This spice boosts the overall flavor profile; consider fresh garlic for a stronger pop!
Salt & Black Pepper: – Classic seasonings that bring out the best in the chicken.
Oil: – Perfect for frying; choose a neutral oil like canola for the best result.
Honey: – Provides that delicious sweet twist and stickiness in the hot honey glaze.
Hot Sauce: – Infuses heat and flavor; tailor to your own spice preference!
Butter: – Adds richness to the hot honey glaze, making it silky smooth.
Elbow Macaroni: – The pasta choice that complements the creamy cheese sauce perfectly.
Milk: – Necessary for creating that indulgently creamy mac and cheese sauce.
Cheddar Cheese & Mozzarella Cheese: – These cheeses form the delicious gooey base of your mac and cheese.
Garlic Powder (for mac and cheese): – Elevates the flavor of the cheese sauce, providing depth.

Now that you have all the ingredients for these Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese, you’re on your way to creating a dish bursting with flavor and warmth that’s sure to be a family favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by placing the chicken tenders in a mixing bowl and pouring in the buttermilk. Ensure each piece is fully submerged, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as the buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, resulting in juicy, flavorful Hot Honey Chicken Tenders.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Once your chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator and dredge each tender in the seasoned flour mixture, coating it thoroughly for a crispy exterior that pairs perfectly with the hot honey glaze.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add enough oil to submerge half of each chicken tender. Bring the oil to 350°F (175°C); use a thermometer for accuracy. Carefully add the dredged chicken tenders to the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 5-7 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Glaze
While the chicken is frying, combine the honey, hot sauce, and melted butter in a small bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended and smooth. As soon as the chicken tenders are done, brush the hot honey glaze generously over each piece, ensuring a sweet and spicy coating that elevates the flavor of your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders.

Step 5: Prepare the Mac and Cheese
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the macaroni and cheese. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, then whisk in an equal amount of flour to form a roux. Slowly add milk to the roux, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and bubbles gently, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 6: Add the Cheese
Once your sauce is thickened, lower the heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese along with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Keep stirring until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Then, fold in the cooked elbow macaroni, ensuring every piece is well-coated in that rich, cheesy mixture before transferring it to a greased baking dish.

Step 7: Bake the Mac and Cheese
To finish, sprinkle a handful of extra cheese on top of the macaroni mixture. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. This final step will give your baked mac and cheese that irresistible creamy texture paired with a satisfying crust, making it the perfect companion to your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders.

How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Fridge: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheat: When ready to enjoy from frozen, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.
Mac and Cheese Storage: Keep leftover baked mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For freezing, place in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s tightly sealed, for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delicious twists that enhance the flavors and textures of your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders!

Dairy-Free: Substitute milk and butter in the mac and cheese with almond or oat milk and dairy-free butter for a creamy base.
Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of hot sauce in the glaze or add chopped jalapeños to give your chicken extra heat!
Cheesy Delight: Swap cheddar for a mix of smoked gouda and white cheddar to elevate the flavor profile of your mac and cheese.
Crunchy Top: Add panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese over the mac and cheese before baking for an irresistible crispy topping.
Sweet Twist: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup on the finished hot honey chicken for a delightful balance of flavors.
Zingy Addition: Toss in a handful of chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits to the mac and cheese for added texture and flavor.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the hot honey glaze for a fragrant, garden-fresh twist.
Alternative Proteins: Try out shrimp or tofu marinated in the same hot honey glaze for a delightful pescatarian or vegetarian option.

With these variations, your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese can continue to surprise and delight at every turn! If you’re in the mood for more flavor adventures, don’t miss my Ham Egg Cheese recipe for another crowd-pleaser!

What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

Create a memorable meal that delights every palate and warms the heart with side dishes that truly shine alongside this comfort food favorite.

Garlicky Green Beans: Tender-crisp green beans sautéed with garlic add a refreshing crunch that pairs wonderfully with the rich and creamy mac and cheese.
Southern Coleslaw: A tangy and slightly sweet coleslaw complements the spicy-sweet chicken, creating a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture for a perfect harmony.
Cornbread Muffins: Light and fluffy cornbread muffins soak up the delicious sauces while providing a comforting sweetness. Serve them warm for a cozy feel.
Simple Side Salad: A mixed greens salad topped with fresh veggies and a zesty vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the meal while adding a refreshing bite.
Crispy Fried Pickles: The tangy crunch of fried pickles offer a delightful appetizer or side that’s fun for dipping and ties into the Southern fare theme.
Light Lemonade: A refreshing glass of homemade lemonade, brightened with fresh mint, provides a zesty counterpoint to the spicy chicken, making for a quencher that pleases everyone at the table.

Serve these alongside your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese, and you’ve created a feast that brings comfort and joy to any gathering.

Expert Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Perfect Temperature: Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) for crispy chicken. A thermometer helps avoid soggy tenders.
Glazing Technique: Allow chicken to cool slightly before glazing. This prevents the hot honey sauce from sliding off and ensures a beautiful finish.
Breadcrumb Boost: For an added crunch, top your mac and cheese with seasoned breadcrumbs before baking, creating a delightful texture contrast.
Flavor Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to adjust the hot sauce in your glaze to suit your spice preference, making your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders just how you like them.
Resting Time: Allow the fried chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes before serving—this helps retain their juiciness and keeps each bite satisfying.

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring maximum tenderness. Additionally, the chicken can be coated in the seasoned flour mixture and refrigerated for the same duration; just be sure to wrap tightly to avoid moisture accumulation. You can also prepare the mac and cheese sauce up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To finish the dish, fry the chicken tenders and bake the mac and cheese right before serving for a delightful and satisfying meal that tastes just as delicious as freshly made!

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for fresh chicken tenders that are plump and have a nice pink color. Avoid any pieces with dark spots or a foul smell, as these are signs of spoilage. If tenders aren’t available, you can opt for boneless chicken breasts cut into strips; just make sure they’re uniform in size for even cooking.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very simple! Store leftover chicken tenders and macaroni and cheese in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken is cooled down before placing it in the fridge to prevent condensation and maintain crispiness.

Can I freeze the chicken tenders and mac and cheese?
Absolutely! To freeze the chicken tenders, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. For the baked mac and cheese, allow it to cool completely, then store in a tightly sealed freezer-safe container for the same duration. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven for best results!

What should I do if my fried chicken is soggy?
Don’t worry, this happens to the best of us! If your chicken becomes soggy, it could be due to low oil temperature while frying. Next time, ensure your oil reaches 350°F (175°C) before frying. If the tenders are already cooked and soggy, try placing them on a baking sheet and baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain some of that crispiness.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies?
Absolutely! You can make this dish dairy-free by substituting cow’s milk with plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and using dairy-free cheese for the mac and cheese. For the buttermilk, use a dairy-free milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice to mimic the acidity. Simply adjust the flavors in the hot honey glaze to your liking as well.

How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the juiciest tenders, I recommend marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, though overnight is even better if you have the time! This allows the chicken to absorb moisture and flavor, ensuring each bite is succulent and tender, making your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders absolutely irresistible.