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Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese Bliss

This Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese combines crispy, sweet, and spicy flavors for a perfect comfort meal.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Ingredients
  • 1 pound Chicken Tenders Fresh or thawed for best results.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Ideal for marinating; substitute with milk mixed with lemon juice if needed.
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Creates a crisp coating; gluten-free flour works as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds flavor and vibrant color; smoked paprika can enhance smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Provides flavor; consider using fresh garlic as an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for enhancing the dish's overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential for enhancing the dish's overall flavor.
  • 2 cups Oil for Frying Choose neutral oils like canola for perfect crispiness.
Hot Honey Glaze Ingredients
  • 1/3 cup Honey Adds a sweet kick; maple syrup can be a tasty substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Hot Sauce Infuses heat; adjust to your preferred spice level for the glaze.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Gives richness to the glaze; replace with olive oil if desired.
Baked Mac and Cheese Ingredients
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni The classic pasta base; feel free to use other types like shells or cavatappi.
  • 2 cups Milk Ensures a creamy cheese sauce; whole milk adds richness, while non-dairy options are acceptable.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Provides robust flavor; Colby or Monterey Jack can be great alternatives.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Contributes creaminess and stretchiness; can be omitted if needed.

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • skillet
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • baking dish
  • Tongs

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Begin by marinating the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until mixed.
  3. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, dredge in the flour mixture, and set aside.
  4. Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry coated tenders for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Combine honey, hot sauce, and melted butter in a bowl for the glaze.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) for the baked mac and cheese.
  7. In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, then add milk until sauce thickens. Stir in cheeses.
  8. Mix cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish.
  9. Top with extra cheese and bake for about 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  10. Brush hot honey glaze over fried chicken tenders before serving.
  11. Serve Hot Honey Chicken Tenders alongside Baked Mac and Cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Adjust hot sauce in the glaze to suit your spice preference. Leftovers should be stored separately in airtight containers.

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