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A bowl of Hot Honey Tenders Mac Cheese topped with chicken tenders and hot honey.

Hot honey tenders Mac Cheese

Indulge in the deliciousness of Hot Honey Tenders Mac Cheese! A perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors that will satisfy your cravings! 🍯🍗🧀
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American-inspired comfort food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 500 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Skillet For frying the chicken tenders.
  • 1 Saucepan For making the cheese sauce.
  • 3 Bowls For breading station.

Ingredients
  

Chicken Tenders

  • 1 lb Chicken tenders Perfectly tender and juicy, the star of the dish.
  • 1/4 cup Hot honey Adds a sweet and spicy kick that elevates the flavor.

Mac and Cheese Base

  • 8 oz Macaroni pasta The classic base for creamy mac and cheese.
  • 2 cups Cheddar cheese Provides a rich, melty texture and sharp flavor.
  • 4 oz Cream cheese Ensures a creamy consistency in the cheese sauce.
  • 2 cups Milk Helps to create a smooth and creamy sauce.
  • 2 tbsp Butter Adds richness and helps to bind the sauce together.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs For a crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy mac.
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder Enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • 1 tsp Onion powder Adds depth and sweetness to the dish.
  • to taste Salt Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
  • to taste Pepper A dash of spice to balance the richness.

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken

  • Start by cutting chicken breasts into tender-sized pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Set aside.

Breading Station

  • In one bowl, place flour. In a second bowl, whisk together eggs and a splash of milk. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs with a pinch of paprika for extra flavor.

Coat the Chicken

  • Dip each chicken piece into flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Make sure they’re well-covered!

Fry the Tenders

  • Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken tenders until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Make the Mac and Cheese

  • Cook macaroni according to package instructions. In a saucepan, melt butter, then whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk, stirring until thickened.

Add Cheese

  • Stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy. Mix in the cooked macaroni until well combined.

Combine and Drizzle

  • Place the chicken tenders on top of the mac and cheese. Drizzle with hot honey for that sweet and spicy kick!

Serve and Enjoy!

  • Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Dig in and enjoy your comforting bowl of Hot Honey Tenders Mac Cheese!

Video

Keyword mac and cheese, chicken tenders, hot honey