As I poured the golden melted cheese over the cooked macaroni, I felt that familiar tug of joy—comfort food in its purest form. Today, let’s indulge in a delightful twist on classic favorites: Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese. This dish promises not just mouthwatering flavors, but it also brings together the crispy crunch of chicken tenders glazed in a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce with the rich, gooey goodness of cheesy macaroni. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a laid-back gathering with friends, these tenders are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, you can easily customize the cooking methods to either fry or bake, making it a versatile option for any kitchen. Are you ready to create a meal that’s sure to put smiles on everyone’s faces? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Crave This Dish?
Irresistible Crunch: Each chicken tender is perfectly fried or baked to a golden crisp, delivering a satisfying crunch that’s sure to please any palate.
Sweet and Spicy Harmony: The hot honey glaze strikes the perfect balance, offering a burst of sweetness with a kick that elevates the entire dish.
Creamy Comfort: Paired with rich, creamy baked mac and cheese, you’ll experience a nostalgic comfort that warms the heart and fills the belly.
Versatile Cooking Options: Choose between frying for that classic crunch or baking for a healthier twist, making this recipe adaptable to your preferences.
Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun get-together with friends, these tenders are a hit, leaving everyone asking for more.
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
• Chicken Tenders – Ensure they are tender and juicy by marinating.
• Buttermilk – Tenderizes chicken and helps the coating stick; substitute with milk and a splash of lemon juice if necessary.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the crispy coating for the chicken.
• Paprika – Adds flavor and a subtle warmth to enhance taste.
• Garlic Powder – Elevates the overall flavor profile beautifully.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
• Black Pepper – Adds spiciness and depth; adjust to taste.
• Oil – Use a neutral oil, like canola, with a high smoke point for frying.
For the Hot Honey Glaze
• Honey – Adds the sweet touch to the glaze that complements the heat perfectly.
• Hot Sauce – Provides heat, and you can adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
• Butter – Adds richness to the glaze, making it more delicious.
For the Baked Mac and Cheese
• Elbow Macaroni – Serves as the base for creamy macaroni and cheese; feel free to substitute other pasta shapes.
• Milk – Forms the creamy consistency of the cheese sauce; whole milk works best for richness.
• Cheddar Cheese – Main flavor cheese that provides richness and gooey texture.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Adds creaminess and a delightful stringiness to each bite.
Get ready to whip up the ultimate comfort dish with these Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese ingredients!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken tenders with buttermilk, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow them to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes; this step is crucial for achieving tender and juicy chicken. As you wait, prepare to enhance your meal with a delicious, crispy coating.
Step 2: Prepare Coating
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined. This flavorful blend will create a delightful crunch on your chicken tenders. Set it aside, and make sure to have your frying oil ready to go so you can swiftly move on to the next step.
Step 3: Coat Chicken
After marinating, take each chicken tender from the buttermilk and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Shake off any excess flour to reveal a light coating that fosters crispy goodness. Your chicken should have a nice, even covering to promote that satisfying crunch when fried.
Step 4: Fry Chicken
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat a generous amount of oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated chicken tenders, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crisp on the outside. Once done, transfer the tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to let excess oil drain off.
Step 5: Make Hot Honey Glaze
While the chicken is frying, prepare the hot honey glaze by combining honey, hot sauce, and melted butter in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and well-blended, creating a luscious glaze that will elevate your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders. The mixture should be sticky and fragrant, ready to coat the delicious tenders.
Step 6: Glaze Chicken
Once the chicken tenders are fried and still hot, generously brush them with the hot honey glaze. Make sure each tender is evenly coated, allowing the warm glaze to soak in for maximum flavor. The sweet and spicy notes from the glaze will beautifully complement each bite of crispy chicken.
Step 7: Prepare Mac and Cheese
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) as you transition to the baked mac and cheese. In a medium saucepan, melt some butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour until smooth and bubbly. Gradually stir in milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce, which will be the base of your cheesy baked macaroni.
Step 8: Add Cheese
Lower the heat and add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the thickened milk mixture. Stir continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and incorporated, creating an irresistibly cheesy sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to elevate the flavor profile of your mac and cheese.
Step 9: Combine
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked elbow macaroni with the cheese sauce, gently tossing to ensure every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy goodness. Once well mixed, transfer this delightful combination into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a delicious, cheesy base for baking.
Step 10: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The aroma of baked mac and cheese will fill your kitchen, stirring up anticipation for the comforting dish. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving alongside your glazed hot honey chicken tenders.
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk and season them up to 24 hours in advance; this helps lock in moisture for extra juicy results. Prepare the mac and cheese sauce ahead of time as well, storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the chicken and bake the mac and cheese per the recipe instructions. Remember to keep the tenders and mac and cheese stored separately in airtight containers to maintain their quality. You’ll enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort on your busy day!
What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort meal experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the rich and savory flavors of this irresistible dish.
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Crispy Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of fresh coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and mac and cheese.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery sticks packed with garlic flavor make for a delightful bite that pairs beautifully with creamy mac and cheese.
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Steamed Broccoli: A fresh, vibrant vegetable adds a nutritious touch while balancing the meal’s heaviness and creating a pleasing color contrast on the plate.
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Sweet Potato Fries: With their natural sweetness, these crispy fries echo the flavors of the hot honey while adding a satisfying crunch.
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Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread muffins soak up delicious juices, making them an ideal companion to the meal, ensuring no bite goes unappreciated.
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Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of sweetened iced tea brings a classic Southern vibe, perfectly complementing the entire meal with its sweetness and coolness.
Expert Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
Crispy Perfection: Use a thermometer to check oil temperature. If it’s too low, the chicken will absorb oil and become greasy.
Marination Matters: Don’t skip the buttermilk marinade; it ensures juicy, tender chicken tenders. Longer marinating yields even better results!
Baking Option: When baking, apply the hot honey glaze directly after cooking for a sticky and sweet finish, keeping the chicken tender!
Homemade Mac and Cheese: Mix shredded cheeses for depth; don’t just stick to cheddar. Add a bit of smoked gouda for a unique flavor twist!
Storage Insight: Keep chicken and mac and cheese in separate containers to maintain texture. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Variations
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to make this dish uniquely yours and even more delightful!
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Pasta Swap: Use cavatappi or penne instead of elbow macaroni for fun shapes and textures. The playful pasta shapes will add a new dimension to your classic mac and cheese.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This allows everyone to enjoy the crispy chicken tenders without the worry!
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Sweet Heat: Increase honey and reduce hot sauce for a sweeter glaze. This buttery, mild twist is perfect for family members who prefer a less fiery flavor.
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Extra Cheesy: Add shredded parmesan or gouda to your cheese mix for a rich, indulgent taste. The depth of flavor will elevate your mac and cheese to new heights.
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Baked Deliciousness: Bake the chicken tenders instead of frying them for a healthier option. Just brush them with the hot honey glaze after baking for a light yet flavorful finish.
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Spicy Twist: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the flour mix for a fiery kick. This extra spice will certainly tantalize your taste buds!
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Breadcrumb Crunch: Top your mac and cheese with seasoned breadcrumbs before baking for an irresistible crunch. This simple addition creates a delightful texture contrast to the creamy base.
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Fiesta Flavor: Mix in jalapeños or diced bell peppers into your mac and cheese for a fresh, flavorful kick. This zesty addition can brighten up the dish and enhance the overall experience.
These variations will not only personalize your dish but will also impress everyone at your dinner table. And if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out Honey Garlic Cheese or try a delicious Baked Pumpkin Goat. Enjoy the culinary journey!
How to Store and Freeze Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
Fridge: Store the chicken tenders and macaroni and cheese in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days. This keeps the textures intact and fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken tenders and baked mac and cheese separately in freezer-safe containers. They can stay good for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken tenders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. The baked mac and cheese is best reheated in a covered dish to retain moisture.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the delicious flavors of the Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese.
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right chicken tenders?
Absolutely! Look for chicken tenders that are pale pink in color, with no dark spots or unusual odors. Fresh, juicy chicken tends to be plump and has minimal excess liquid in the packaging. If you’re buying frozen, ensure they have no freezer burn, which can affect texture.
What is the best storage method for leftovers?
To keep your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders and baked mac and cheese fresh, store each component in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their individual textures and flavors. When reheating, I recommend using the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results, about 15-20 minutes until warm.
Can I freeze Hot Honey Chicken Tenders and Baked Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can! Place the chicken tenders and mac and cheese in freezer-safe containers, ensuring a tight seal to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge. For reheating, bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—approximately 20-25 minutes for the mac and cheese and 15-20 minutes for the tenders.
What are some troubleshooting tips if my chicken isn’t crispy?
Very! If your chicken tends to be soggy, ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) before adding the tenders. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in batches to allow proper air circulation. Let excess flour shake off before frying, as excess coating can lead to sogginess too. Don’t forget to use paper towels to drain the fried chicken after cooking!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For allergies, be cautious with ingredients like buttermilk (which contains dairy) and hot sauce (which might have preservatives). If you’re preparing this dish for pets, avoid using hot sauce in the glaze—it’s not safe for dogs or cats. For gluten-free options, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring you get the desired crispy texture.
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken tenders with buttermilk and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge the marinated chicken tenders in the flour mixture until fully coated.
- Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry chicken tenders for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Mix honey, hot sauce, and melted butter to create the hot honey glaze.
- Brush the fried chicken tenders with the hot honey glaze.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour and gradually add milk to create a sauce.
- Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella to the sauce until melted; season with salt and pepper.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
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