If there’s one dish that captures the essence of comfort, it’s Hot Honey Chicken Tenders paired with Baked Mac and Cheese. As the sun sets and you find yourself craving something that feels like a warm hug on a plate, these crispy chicken tenders glazed with a sweet and spicy sauce are sure to hit the spot. The moment you take your first bite, the layers of crunch and flavor transport you to a cozy Southern kitchen, where love and tradition combine in every dish.
Picture this: after a long day, the promise of golden brown tenders and creamy, cheesy macaroni bubbling in the oven brings an unmistakable joy. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that transforms family dinners into cherished moments. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself to some well-deserved comfort, these flavors dance on your palate, reminding you that home-cooked meals are always the best kind of therapy. Let’s dive into making this mouthwatering combination that everyone will adore!
Why are Hot Honey Chicken Tenders irresistible?
Crispy Texture: Each tender boasts a golden-brown crunch that captivates your senses.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet heat from the hot honey glaze creates an unforgettable taste that keeps you coming back for more.
Comfort in Every Bite: This comforting dish brings warmth to your table, perfect for cozy family dinners.
Kid-Friendly Appeal: Children and adults alike will relish the combination of crunchy chicken and creamy mac and cheese—sure to be a family favorite!
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, this recipe allows you to create a home-cooked masterpiece without spending hours in the kitchen.
Transform your dinner routine with these irresistible flavors that not only delight but also nourish the soul!
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Ingredients
• Prepare to indulge in the deliciousness of Hot Honey Chicken Tenders!
For the Chicken Tenders
- Chicken Tenders – The heart of the dish, ensuring a juicy bite.
- Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick; substitute with milk mixed with lemon juice if unavailable.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the perfect crunchy coating.
- Paprika – Adds a vibrant color and subtle smokiness.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken just right.
- Oil – Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable for frying.
- Honey – Sweetens the glaze, balancing the heat perfectly.
- Hot Sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot) – Infuses spiciness; adjust to your preferred heat level.
- Butter – Adds richness to the glaze, taking it to the next level.
For the Baked Mac and Cheese
- Elbow Macaroni – The ideal base for this cheesy delight.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Provides that classic sharp flavor and creaminess.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Creates a stretchy, gooey texture that everyone loves.
- Milk – Combines with cheese to form a velvety sauce.
- Butter – Helps in creating a smooth cheese sauce.
- Flour – Used to thicken the cheese sauce, ensuring it clings to every noodle.
- Salt and Pepper – Season to enhance the cheese’s flavor.
- Garlic Powder – Adds an extra layer of flavor to the cheese sauce.
These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders and Baked Mac and Cheese combine to create a symphony of flavors that everyone at your dinner table will love!
How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
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Marinate chicken: Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, ensuring they become juicy and tender.
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Prepare flour mix: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend will create the crispy coating.
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Coat chicken: Remove the marinated tenders from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge them in the flour mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated for that perfect crunch.
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Fry chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated tenders, frying them for about 4-5 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Make sure to drain them on paper towels afterward to keep them crispy.
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Make hot honey glaze: In a small bowl, mix together honey, hot sauce, and melted butter until well combined. This glaze is where the sweet and spicy magic happens!
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Glaze chicken: Once the chicken tenders are fried and crispy, brush the hot honey glaze generously over the top, coating each piece for that delicious flavor kick.
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Prepare mac and cheese:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in flour, cooking it until it forms a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking until it thickens.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Mix the cheese sauce with the cooked elbow macaroni and transfer it to a greased baking dish.
- Top with extra cheese and bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Optional: Serve with a fresh side salad for added crunch and color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?
To create a comforting choir of flavors and textures, consider these delightful side dishes that perfectly complement your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side brings a refreshing contrast to the sweet and spicy chicken. The creamy dressing balances the heat beautifully!
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Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread adds a comforting touch, perfect for soaking up any extra hot honey glaze or cheese sauce. It’s a crowd pleaser!
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Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread muffins pair perfectly with the heat of the chicken, providing a delightful Southern twist. Plus, they’re fun to eat!
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Pickle Chips: Crispy and tangy pickle chips cut through the richness of the meal, making each bite more exciting. They pack a delightful crunch!
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Green Beans Almondine: The vibrant green beans sautéed with almonds add a healthy flair and bring a touch of elegance to this hearty meal, enhancing the overall experience.
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Sweet Potato Fries: These slightly sweet and crispy fries are an excellent balance to the savory chicken tenders, providing a fun twist on traditional fries.
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Peach Iced Tea: This refreshing, fruity beverage wonderfully complements the sweet heat of the chicken tenders while offering a delightful Southern vibe.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish your meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies. They bring warmth and nostalgia, making for a perfect indulgence after dinner.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing, juicy contrast, lightening up the richness of your meal and cleansing the palate beautifully.
With these pairings, your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders will shine on the dinner table, creating a feast that warms the heart!
Storage Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
Fridge: Store leftover hot honey chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain their flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken tenders before glazing. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they’ll last up to 3 months.
Reheating: To keep your chicken tenders crispy when reheating, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, rather than using the microwave.
Storage for Mac and Cheese: Keep baked mac and cheese in a covered dish in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven for a creamy texture!
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to fully customize your dish!
- Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips for a leaner option while keeping that tender texture.
- Different Pasta Shapes: Swap elbow macaroni for shells, cavatappi, or penne to switch up the mac and cheese base—each offers a unique bite!
- Spicy Kick: Adjust heat levels by using a milder hot sauce like sriracha or even chipotle sauce for a smoky flavor profile.
- Herbal Note: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the flour mix for an aromatic twist that elevates the chicken’s flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with crispy cauliflower florets or plant-based chicken alternatives for a delightful vegetarian dish.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the flour coating for a deeper, smoky essence that contrasts beautifully with sweet honey.
- Cheesy Elegance: Mix in crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese into the mac and cheese for a tangy flavor explosion that complements the dish!
- Sweet Heat Boost: Add a splash of maple syrup to the hot honey glaze for an added layer of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the heat.
Each option invites you to create a comforting masterpiece tailored to your taste. Enjoy the journey of flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders and Baked Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance to ensure tenderness and flavor. Additionally, the mac and cheese can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; simply assemble it in the baking dish without baking it. When you’re ready to enjoy the meal, bake the mac and cheese for about 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until it’s golden and bubbly. For the chicken tenders, fry them fresh just before serving to maintain their crispy texture, brushing them with hot honey glaze for that irresistible finishing touch. Enjoy this delightful dish with less stress on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
- Perfectly Crispy: Ensure your oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) before frying. This prevents the tenders from absorbing too much oil and keeps them crispy.
- Marination Time: For maximum flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes—don’t rush this step!
- Uniform Coating: Dredge the marinated tenders evenly in the flour mixture to achieve that perfect crunch when fried.
- Keep it Hot: If reheating, place chicken tenders in the oven instead of the microwave; this helps maintain their crispiness.
- Add Flavor: Experiment with additional spices in the flour mix for extra zing! Cumin or cayenne can elevate your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders even further.
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken works best for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! Chicken tenders are the ideal choice for this recipe as they’re naturally tender and cook quickly. You can also substitute with chicken breasts cut into strips for a similar effect, but be mindful of cooking time as they may take a few minutes longer.
How do I store leftovers of Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?
Leftover hot honey chicken tenders should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures they maintain their flavor and moisture. For reheating, I recommend using the oven to keep them crispy—simply heat at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, instead of using a microwave, which can make them soggy.
Can I freeze Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze these delicious tenders! Before glazing, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, which prevents freezer burn. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for that perfect crispiness!
What can I do if my chicken tenders are soggy after frying?
Very! If your chicken tenders come out soggy, it usually means the oil wasn’t hot enough during frying. Make sure your oil is heated to 350°F (175°C) before adding the chicken. For crispy results, drain the fried tenders on paper towels immediately to remove excess oil. If they are already soggy, you can try baking them at a high temperature for a few minutes to restore some crunch.
Are there any allergy considerations with your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders recipe?
Definitely! This recipe contains allergens such as dairy (buttermilk and cheese), gluten (all-purpose flour), and potentially peanuts or tree nuts (depending on the hot sauce brand). If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, consider using gluten-free flour for coating, or homemade hot sauce without allergens. Always ensure to check labels on processed ingredients to be safe!
Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Cheesy Baked Mac Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate chicken: Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare flour mix: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat chicken: Remove the marinated tenders from the buttermilk, let any excess drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture.
- Fry chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Add the coated tenders and fry for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Make hot honey glaze: In a small bowl, mix together honey, hot sauce, and melted butter until well combined.
- Glaze chicken: Brush the hot honey glaze generously over the fried chicken tenders.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour, cooking until it forms a roux. Gradually add milk while whisking until it thickens.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Mix the cheese sauce with the cooked elbow macaroni and transfer it to a greased baking dish.
- Top with extra cheese and bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.