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Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese Bliss

Indulge in Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese for a delightful twist on classic favorites.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders
  • 1 pound Chicken Tenders Ensure they are tender and juicy by marinating.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Substitute with milk and a splash of lemon juice if necessary.
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Provides the crispy coating for the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds flavor and a subtle warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Elevates the overall flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds spiciness and depth; adjust to taste.
  • Oil Neutral oil (like canola) For frying.
For the Hot Honey Glaze
  • 1/2 cup Honey Adds sweetness to the glaze.
  • 1 tablespoon Hot Sauce Adjust to spice preference.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness to the glaze.
For the Baked Mac and Cheese
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni Feel free to substitute other pasta shapes.
  • 2 cups Milk Whole milk works best for richness.
  • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Main flavor cheese that provides richness.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Adds creaminess to each bite.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Frying Pan
  • baking dish
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken tenders with buttermilk and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Dredge the marinated chicken tenders in the flour mixture until fully coated.
  4. Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry chicken tenders for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Mix honey, hot sauce, and melted butter to create the hot honey glaze.
  6. Brush the fried chicken tenders with the hot honey glaze.
  7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour and gradually add milk to create a sauce.
  8. Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella to the sauce until melted; season with salt and pepper.
  9. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish.
  10. Bake for 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use a thermometer for oil temperature for crispy chicken. Store chicken and mac and cheese separately to maintain texture.

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