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 hearty dish is perfect for family dinners, game days, or any occasion when you crave a satisfying meal. The combination of crispy chicken and cheesy pasta makes it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful: The chicken tenders are perfectly fried to achieve a crunchy texture, while the hot honey glaze adds a delightful kick.
• Cheesy Goodness: The baked mac and cheese features rich, melted cheeses that create a creamy sauce, making it irresistible.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this dish is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this meal is sure to please your guests.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main dish or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete feast.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some key tools needed for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Whisk
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken tenders and mixing the cheese sauce.
• Frying pan: Needed to fry the chicken tenders evenly for that perfect golden color.
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly when making the cheese sauce.

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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

For the Hot Honey Glaze

• 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

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

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Tenders

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the buttermilk.
2. Place the chicken tenders in the buttermilk and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In another bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Remove each chicken tender from the buttermilk and dredge them in the flour mixture until fully coated.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken Tenders

1. Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the hot oil.
3. Fry until golden brown and cooked through; drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Glaze

1. In a small bowl, combine honey, hot sauce, and melted butter.
2. Brush this hot honey glaze generously over each fried tender while they are still hot.

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) as you’re preparing your baked mac and cheese.

Step 6: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
2. Whisk in flour to create a roux until smooth.
3. Gradually add milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps; cook until thickened.

Step 7: Combine Cheese into Sauce

Once thickened:
– Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until fully melted.

Step 8: Assemble Mac and Cheese

1. Toss cooked elbow macaroni in the cheese sauce until well-coated.
2. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
3. Top with extra shredded cheese if desired.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

Now you have delicious Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese ready to serve! Enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends any time you crave something hearty!

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

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese make for a delightful meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply satisfying your cravings, presenting this dish creatively can elevate your dining experience.

On a Platter

• Arrange the chicken tenders on a large platter alongside the baked mac and cheese for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Serve with a side of crunchy carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper strips. The freshness of the vegetables adds balance to the rich flavors of the chicken and mac and cheese.

In Sandwiches

• For a fun twist, place the hot honey chicken tenders in toasted buns. Add lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of extra hot honey for a spicy kick.

As Party Bites

• Cut the chicken tenders into smaller pieces for bite-sized appetizers. Pair them with toothpicks and serve with small cups of mac and cheese for easy snacking.

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

To achieve the best results when making Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken tenders marinate in buttermilk for longer than 30 minutes enhances tenderness and flavor.

• Use High Heat: Frying at the right temperature (350°F) ensures crispy tenders without absorbing too much oil. Use a thermometer for accuracy.

• Mix Well: Ensure the flour mixture is well combined to coat each tender evenly. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch.

• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese in your mac and cheese for unique flavors. Gouda or pepper jack can add an exciting twist!

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

Pairing side dishes with your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, cutting through the richness of the main dish. Try adding apples or raisins for extra sweetness.

2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with Southern flavors, providing a comforting addition to your meal.

3. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds offer a nutritious side that complements fried foods nicely.

4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for an easy-to-make side that everyone loves.

5. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad brings freshness to your plate while balancing out the heavy flavors of mac and cheese.

6. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks are perfect for dipping into leftover cheese sauce while adding more comfort to this hearty meal.

7. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables provide color and health benefits while enhancing your meal’s visual appeal and flavor profile.

8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness without being overwhelming, making it an excellent palate cleanser between bites of rich food.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese, it’s easy to slip up. Here are key mistakes to steer clear of.

• Over-marinating the chicken: While marinating is crucial for flavor, leaving the chicken in buttermilk for too long can make it mushy. Aim for 30 minutes, no more.
• Skipping the dredging step: Dredging the tenders in flour enhances crispiness. Don’t skip this step; coat them well for that perfect crunch.
• Not monitoring oil temperature: If your oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to maintain a steady 350°F (175°C).
• Under-seasoning the cheese sauce: The cheese sauce is vital for flavor in the mac and cheese. Don’t be shy with salt and spices; taste as you go!
• Ignoring baking time: Baking your mac and cheese until it’s bubbly and golden is key to achieving that perfect texture. Set a timer to avoid undercooking or burning.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave in short intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep the chicken moist while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese from scratch?

To make this dish from scratch, follow the ingredients and instructions provided earlier. Marinate the chicken, coat it well, fry until crispy, prepare the creamy cheese sauce, mix with macaroni, then bake.

Can I customize the spice level of Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the honey glaze according to your heat preference. You can also add spices like cayenne pepper for extra kick.

What sides pair well with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese?

Consider serving coleslaw or steamed vegetables as fresh sides that balance out the richness of this meal.

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

The total preparation time is about 1 hour and 10 minutes, including marination, cooking, and baking.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese is a delightful comfort food choice that brings together crispy tenders and creamy pasta. This dish is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like broccoli or using different cheeses in your mac and cheese. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to please!