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. This dish features crispy fried chicken tenders glazed in sweet and spicy hot honey, perfectly paired with creamy, cheesy oven-baked macaroni. It’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing Southern-inspired meal suitable for family gatherings, casual dinners, or game day feasts. The standout qualities of this recipe include its delightful flavor balance, ease of preparation, and comforting textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet and spicy glaze on the chicken adds a unique twist to classic fried chicken.
• Creamy Comfort: The baked mac and cheese is rich and cheesy, making it a perfect companion to the tenders.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is suitable for cooks of all skill levels.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is guaranteed to impress family and friends at any gathering.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion—be it a weeknight dinner or a festive celebration.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious meal, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for marinating chicken and mixing dry ingredients efficiently.
• Frying pan or deep fryer: Ensures even cooking of chicken tenders while maintaining the ideal temperature.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly when making the cheese sauce.
• Baking dish: Perfect for baking the macaroni and cheese until golden brown.

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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

Marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to ensure they are tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well to evenly distribute spices.

Step 3: Dredge the Tenders

Take each marinated tender:
– Dredge it in the flour mixture until fully coated.

Step 4: Fry the Tenders

In a frying pan:
– Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
– Fry the tenders until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
– Drain on paper towels afterward.

Step 5: Make Hot Honey Glaze

In a small bowl:
– Mix honey, hot sauce, and melted butter until well combined.

Step 6: Glaze the Tenders

While still hot:
– Brush each fried tender generously with the hot honey glaze.

Step 7: Preheat Oven for Mac and Cheese

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Step 8: Create Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan:
1. Melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour to create a roux.
3. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until thickened.

Step 9: Stir in Cheeses

Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder:
– Stir until all cheese melts completely into a creamy sauce.

Step 10: Combine Macaroni with Cheese Sauce

Toss cooked macaroni in the cheese sauce:
– Ensure every piece is thoroughly coated before transferring it to a greased baking dish.

Step 11: Bake Macaroni

Top with extra shredded cheese:
– Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly on top.

Now you’re ready to serve up this delicious plate of Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese! Enjoy every bite!

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

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese make an irresistible meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Casual Platter

• Serve the chicken tenders and mac and cheese on a large platter for a family-style meal. This invites everyone to dig in and enjoy together.

Side Salad

• Pair the dish with a fresh side salad. A light green salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken and cheese.

Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces alongside the chicken tenders. Consider ranch, blue cheese, or extra hot sauce for added flavor options.

Pickles or Slaw

• Add some tangy pickles or coleslaw on the side. This can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet and spicy flavors of the chicken.

Bread Rolls

• Serve warm bread rolls as an accompaniment. They’re perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce from the baked mac and cheese.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate.

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

Perfecting Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese is all about balance and technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve delicious results.

• Marinate Well: Allow the chicken tenders to marinate in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This tenderizes the meat and enhances flavor.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep oil at 350°F (175°C) during frying. This ensures crispy chicken without excess grease.
• Double-Dip for Crunch: For extra crunch, consider double-dipping the chicken in the flour mixture before frying.
• Cheese Selection Matters: Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for optimal creaminess and stretchiness in your mac and cheese.
• Baking Time: Keep an eye on your baked mac and cheese; bake until golden brown on top for that perfect finish.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy this dish right after cooking for the best texture and flavor experience.

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

Complementing your main dish with great sides can enhance your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some fantastic side dishes to serve alongside Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic favorite, garlic bread adds a delightful crunch that pairs well with cheesy dishes.

2. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious option that balances out the richness of your meal.

3. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob is a fun, hands-on side that brings sweetness to counteract spicy flavors.

4. Coleslaw
   Creamy coleslaw offers a crunchy texture and tanginess, making it an excellent complement to fried foods.

5. Sweet Potato Fries
   These fries add a hint of sweetness while providing a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with tender chicken.

6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Roasted Brussels sprouts bring earthy flavors to your table, enhancing your comfort food experience.

7. Fruit Salad
   A fresh fruit salad can provide brightness and sweetness that refreshes palates between bites of rich dishes.

8. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges are perfect for dipping into sauces, making them an engaging addition to any meal spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese, avoid these common mistakes to ensure delicious results.

• Over-marinating the chicken: Marinating for too long can make the chicken mushy. Stick to 30 minutes for optimal flavor and texture.
• Skipping the frying temperature check: Not heating oil to the right temperature can lead to soggy tenders. Use a thermometer to maintain 350°F (175°C).
• Neglecting to season properly: Failing to season the flour mixture can result in bland chicken. Ensure your seasoning is well balanced for maximum flavor.
• Using cold ingredients for cheese sauce: Adding cold milk can cause lumps in your cheese sauce. Warm it up slightly before mixing for a smooth consistency.
• Underbaking the macaroni: Not baking long enough can leave your mac and cheese soupy. Bake until bubbly and golden for the best texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

• Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese.

What is the best way to achieve crispy chicken tenders?

To get crispy chicken tenders, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan.

How do I customize my baked mac and cheese?

You can add different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack, or mix in cooked vegetables such as spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep everything in advance; just store each component separately until ready to bake and serve.

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

Coleslaw, green beans, or a simple garden salad complement this dish nicely.

Final Thoughts

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese is a delightful comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction. It’s versatile too! Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or cheeses. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!