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Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

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.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 750

Ingredients
  

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Ingredients
  • 1 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 Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 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 Honey
  • 1/4 cup Hot Sauce Frank’s RedHot recommended.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (melted)
Baked Mac and Cheese Ingredients
  • 2 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 bowl
  • Heavy-Bottomed Skillet or Deep Fryer
  • Medium saucepan
  • baking dish
  • thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. 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.
  2. Mix the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl.
  3. 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.
  4. Heat oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Carefully lower the chicken tenders into the hot oil, frying for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, hot sauce, and melted butter until smooth.
  7. Brush the hot honey glaze generously over each fried tender.
  8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the macaroni and cheese.
  9. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring until thickened.
  10. Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted.
  11. 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

Notes

Serve 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.

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