Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

Experience the ultimate comfort food combo with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese — crispy fried chicken tenders glazed in sweet and spicy hot honey, paired with creamy, cheesy oven-baked macaroni. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful: The chicken tenders are perfectly fried to give you that satisfying crunch combined with a sweet and spicy glaze.
• Creamy Comfort: The baked mac and cheese is rich, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, making it an ideal side dish for any occasion.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for beginners but impressive enough for experienced cooks.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish fits right in at any table.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delicious flavors of hot honey chicken and cheesy pasta.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on creating this delicious meal, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or deep frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking dish
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or deep frying pan: Essential for frying chicken tenders evenly and achieving that golden-brown color.
• Mixing bowls: Needed for marinating the chicken and mixing the dry ingredients for breading.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth cheese sauce by combining ingredients without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil, for frying
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted

For the Baked Mac and Cheese

• 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Tenders

Marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures that your chicken stays juicy and flavorful.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Mixture

In a bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour will create a crispy coating on your tenders.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Dredge each marinated tender in the flour mixture until well coated. This adds flavor and texture.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken Tenders

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in your cast iron skillet or frying pan. Fry the tenders until golden brown and cooked through. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Hot Honey Glaze

In a small bowl, mix together honey, hot sauce, and melted butter. Brush this glaze generously over the fried tenders while they’re still hot to infuse them with flavor.

Step 6: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the mac and cheese.

Step 7: Create the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually add milk while whisking constantly until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until completely melted.

Step 8: Combine Macaroni with Cheese Sauce

Toss the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Transfer this mixture to a greased baking dish.

Step 9: Bake Your Mac and Cheese

Top your macaroni with extra shredded cheese if desired. Bake it in preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

Now you have an incredible plate of Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese ready to serve! Enjoy your delicious creation!

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

Serving Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese is a delightful experience that combines flavors and textures. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion.

Family Style

• Serve on a Platter: Arrange the chicken tenders and baked mac and cheese on a large serving platter for a communal dining experience.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for added color and flavor.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A cool, creamy ranch dressing pairs perfectly with the spicy sweetness of the hot honey chicken.
• Barbecue Sauce: Offer a side of smoky barbecue sauce for those who enjoy an extra layer of flavor.

As a Sandwich

• Chicken Tender Sandwich: Place a few chicken tenders in a toasted bun, adding some coleslaw for crunch and drizzle with hot honey sauce.
• Mac and Cheese Melt: Top the sandwich with a spoonful of baked mac and cheese, creating a hearty meal.

On a Salad

• Crispy Chicken Salad: Slice the chicken tenders over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. Drizzle with vinaigrette for freshness.
• Macaroni Salad: Add some mac and cheese to your regular salad for an unexpected twist.

How to Perfect Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

Creating the perfect Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken soak in buttermilk overnight enhances tenderness and flavor.
• Use Fresh Spices: Opt for fresh spices instead of old ones to ensure maximum flavor impact in both the chicken coating and cheese sauce.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep frying oil at 350°F (175°C) for crispy tenders without greasiness.
• Mix Cheeses: Combine different types of cheese in your macaroni for a richer flavor profile, such as gouda or pepper jack along with cheddar.
• Don’t Overcook Macaroni: Cook the macaroni just until al dente; it will continue cooking when baked.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken tenders to rest briefly after frying so they retain their juices when bitten into.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

Pairing side dishes with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders and Baked Mac and Cheese can enhance your meal’s appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness that balances the richness of the main dish.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements spicy flavors while providing a lovely texture contrast.
3. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread makes for an indulgent addition, perfect for mopping up cheesy goodness.
4. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add elegance to your plate.
5. Fried Pickles: Crunchy fried pickles offer a tangy bite that pairs well with both chicken tenders and mac and cheese.
6. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide another crispy element that guests will love alongside their meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese even better. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the chicken tenders in buttermilk can lead to dry meat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to ensure juicy and flavorful tenders.
• Inconsistent Oil Temperature: Frying chicken at the wrong temperature can cause sogginess or burnt pieces. Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying results.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many tenders in the oil at once can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Fry in small batches for a crispy texture.
• Not Draining Excess Oil: Failing to let fried tenders drain on paper towels will result in greasy chicken. Allow them to sit briefly after frying for a better crunch.
• Ignoring Cheese Sauce Consistency: If you don’t whisk the milk gradually into the roux, your cheese sauce might be lumpy. Whisk constantly while adding milk for a smooth sauce.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow food to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

• Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Hot Honey Chicken Tenders special?

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders are unique due to their sweet and spicy glaze made from honey and hot sauce, providing a delightful flavor twist that pairs perfectly with creamy mac and cheese.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken tenders and gluten-free pasta for the mac and cheese. This way, you can still enjoy this comforting dish without gluten.

How do I customize my Baked Mac and Cheese?

You can add different cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack for more flavor. Adding cooked vegetables like spinach or broccoli is another great way to customize this dish!

How long does it take to prepare Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese?

The total time is about 1 hour and 10 minutes, which includes 30 minutes of marinating, plus preparation and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese is an irresistible comfort food dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet heat from the chicken and creamy richness from the mac and cheese delivers satisfaction in every bite. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite spices or additional ingredients! You won’t regret trying this delicious recipe!

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Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Experience the perfect blend of comfort and flavor with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders paired with Baked Mac and Cheese. This dish showcases crispy, golden chicken tenders, beautifully glazed with a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce, alongside rich, creamy macaroni and cheese that will evoke nostalgia with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this meal is sure to impress both kids and adults alike. With its delightful combination of textures—crunchy tenders and smooth pasta—this recipe is not only easy to follow but also incredibly satisfying. Get ready to serve up a plate that’s bursting with flavor!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil, for frying
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
2. Mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Dredge marinated chicken in the flour mixture until well coated.
4. Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C) and fry the tenders until golden brown.
5. Prepare the hot honey glaze by mixing honey, hot sauce, and melted butter; brush over fried chicken.
6. For the mac and cheese, melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, add milk gradually until thickened; stir in cheeses until melted.
7. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce, transfer to a baking dish, top with additional cheese if desired, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying and Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 680
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 95mg