Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

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If you’re craving a meal that hits all the right notes — crispy, spicy, sweet, and downright comforting — then you have to try this recipe for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese. This dish brings together tender, buttermilk-soaked chicken coated in a perfectly seasoned crust, then brushed with a sticky, spicy-sweet hot honey glaze. Paired with rich, creamy baked macaroni and cheese, this combo offers that ultimate crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the list intimidate you; these ingredients are simple staples that each play a starring role in creating irresistible texture, bright flavor, and that golden color we all love. Together, they transform everyday pantry items into a soul-satisfying feast.

• Chicken tenders: Naturally tender and quick to cook, perfect for soaking up flavor and frying crisp.
• Buttermilk: Adds tang and helps tenderize the chicken for juicy bites.
• All-purpose flour: The base for a crunchy coating and a silky roux in the mac and cheese.
• Paprika: Brings a gentle smoky warmth and vibrant color to the breading.
• Garlic powder: Infuses savory depth both in the chicken and the cheese sauce.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing out and balancing every layer of flavor.
• Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil for perfect golden crispiness.
• Honey: The sweet star of the hot honey glaze, mellowing the heat just right.
• Hot sauce: Adds that signature spicy kick to the glaze.
• Butter: Enriches both the chicken glaze and the creamy mac and cheese sauce.
• Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds onto the cheese sauce beautifully.
• Milk: Forms the creamy base for the cheese sauce, making it luscious and smooth.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it gives the mac and cheese its iconic taste.
• Mozzarella cheese: For that lovely gooey stretch and added creaminess.

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

Step 1: Marinate and Prep the Chicken Tenders

Start by soaking your chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This simple step tenderizes the meat and infuses it with a subtle tang that makes every bite juicy. While the tenders soak, mix together your dry coating ingredients—flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper—to create a flavorful crust that will crisp up perfectly when fried.

Step 2: Fry and Glaze the Chicken

Heat your oil to a steady 350°F and dredge each tender thoroughly in the seasoned flour. Fry them just until golden and crisp on the outside while staying succulent inside. Then comes the best part: whisk together honey, hot sauce, and melted butter, and brush this glorious glaze generously over the warm tenders. The sticky hot honey coating is what elevates this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Step 3: Prepare the Baked Mac and Cheese

Turn your oven on to 375°F and get ready for cheesy magic. Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour to form a roux—a silky base for your sauce. Slowly add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce. Stir in sharp cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the cheese melts into a velvety dream. Toss your drained macaroni in this sauce, transfer everything to a greased dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly and gorgeously golden—about 20 minutes.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Once your baked mac and cheese is bubbling from the oven and your hot honey chicken tenders are perfectly glazed, plate them side by side. The contrast of creamy pasta and spicy-sweet crunchy chicken creates a harmony of flavors and textures that’s impossible to resist.

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

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes really takes this dish from great to memorable. Try scattering chopped fresh parsley or chives on the mac and cheese for a pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness. A few lemon wedges on the side can also add a refreshing touch to cut through the richness.

Side Dishes

While this meal holds its own, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or simple roasted vegetables can add some fresh contrast and balance out the indulgence. Pickled vegetables or coleslaw also provide fantastic texture and acidity for those who want a touch more brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese family-style in rustic dishes for an inviting, casual dinner vibe. For a fun twist, stack the chicken tenders on top of individual ramekins of mac and cheese to make a playful, layered presentation. You could also turn the tenders into sliders and serve alongside small mac and cheese cups for a party or snack-worthy platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers—and trust me, that’s a delicious possibility—they store beautifully in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken tenders and mac and cheese separate to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

Both components freeze well if you want to prepare ahead. Freeze the chicken tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag to keep them crisp. The baked mac and cheese can be frozen in a covered dish. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the mac and cheese covered with foil at 350°F until bubbly, about 20 minutes. For the chicken tenders, pop them in a hot oven or air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them back up without drying them out. Avoid microwaving the tenders as it can make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating in buttermilk so they soak up the flavor evenly and cook through properly.

What type of hot sauce works best in the honey glaze?

A classic cayenne-based hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot adds a balanced heat and tang that complements the honey beautifully, but feel free to use your favorite brand.

Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying?

You can, but frying gives the tenders their signature crispy crust that pairs so well with the sticky hot honey. If baking, coat them well and bake at a high temperature to get some crispiness.

Is it okay to use different cheeses in the mac and cheese?

Definitely! Mixing in cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a bit of Parmesan can add complexity. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt smoothly.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes is ideal, but you can go longer — even up to a few hours — for extra juicy, flavorful tenders.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese that makes it feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Give it a try—you won’t regret bringing these crispy, spicy, and cheesy flavors to your table time and time again!

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