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Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

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Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders paired with creamy Baked Mac and Cheese. This delightful dish features crispy chicken tenders glazed with a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce, served alongside rich macaroni smothered in a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this hearty meal is guaranteed to impress your guests and satisfy every palate. The combination of textures—from crunchy to creamy—makes it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
  2. In a bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Dredge marinated chicken tenders in the flour mixture until fully coated.
  4. Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the tenders until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes) and drain on paper towels.
  5. For the glaze, mix honey, hot sauce, and melted butter; brush over warm chicken tenders.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. In a saucepan, melt butter; whisk in flour and gradually add milk until thickened.
  8. Stir in cheeses and seasonings until melted; combine with cooked macaroni.
  9. Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese if desired, and bake for about 20 minutes.

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