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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 chicken tenders glazed in hot honey sauce with creamy mac and cheese for a delightful comfort food experience.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 850
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Ingredients
  • 1 pound Chicken Tenders Fresh or thawed frozen for the best texture and flavor.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Or substitute with milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice.
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free options are available if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds warm color and subtle flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances the savory depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to personal taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds a hint of spice.
  • Oil for Frying A high smoke-point oil like canola or vegetable oil.
Hot Honey Glaze
  • 1/2 cup Honey Adds sweetness to balance spice.
  • 2 tablespoons Hot Sauce A cayenne-based sauce like Frank’s RedHot.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Unsalted is best for precise seasoning control.
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni The classic choice.
  • 2 cups Milk Whole milk creates a rich, creamy sauce.
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese The star cheese for flavor.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Adds extra creaminess.
  • Additional Seasonings Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder to taste.

Equipment

  • Deep Skillet
  • Medium bowl
  • Large Bowl
  • Medium saucepan
  • Baking dish

Method
 

Preparation Instructions
  1. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and pour buttermilk over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Coating: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  3. Coat the Chicken Tenders: Remove chicken from buttermilk and coat in the flour mixture. Shake off excess flour.
  4. Fry the Chicken Tenders: Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C) and fry the tenders for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
  5. Create the Hot Honey Glaze: In a medium bowl, mix honey, hot sauce, and melted butter until integrated. Brush over fried chicken tenders.
  6. Prepare the Mac and Cheese: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk and whisk until thickened.
  7. Add Cheese to the Sauce: Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  8. Combine and Bake the Mac and Cheese: Toss cooked macaroni in cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese and bake for about 20 minutes.
  9. Serve It Up: Plate the Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese together and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 850kcalCarbohydrates: 75gProtein: 45gFat: 45gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 1300mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 800mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Maintain crispiness by reheating in the oven instead of the microwave. Adjust spice levels in the glaze as needed.

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