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Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Cheesy Baked Mac Bliss

Delight in Hot Honey Chicken Tenders paired with Cheesy Baked Mac for a comforting dinner experience.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marination Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: DINNER
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 700
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
  • 1 pound Chicken Tenders The heart of the dish, ensuring a juicy bite.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Tenderizes the chicken; substitute with milk mixed with lemon juice if unavailable.
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Provides the perfect crunchy coating.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds a vibrant color and subtle smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning the chicken just right.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential for seasoning the chicken just right.
  • 1 cup Oil Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point.
  • 1/2 cup Honey Sweetens the glaze, balancing the heat perfectly.
  • 1/4 cup Hot Sauce Infuses spiciness; adjust to your preferred heat level.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds richness to the glaze.
Baked Mac and Cheese
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni The ideal base for this cheesy delight.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Provides that classic sharp flavor.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Creates a stretchy, gooey texture.
  • 2 cups Milk Combines with cheese to form a velvety sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Helps in creating a smooth cheese sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons Flour Used to thicken the cheese sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Season to enhance the cheese's flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Season to enhance the cheese's flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds an extra layer of flavor.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • baking dish
  • mixing bowls
  • saucepan

Method
 

Chicken Tenders
  1. Marinate chicken: Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare flour mix: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Coat chicken: Remove the marinated tenders from the buttermilk, let any excess drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture.
  4. 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.
  5. Make hot honey glaze: In a small bowl, mix together honey, hot sauce, and melted butter until well combined.
  6. Glaze chicken: Brush the hot honey glaze generously over the fried chicken tenders.
Baked Mac and Cheese
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour, cooking until it forms a roux. Gradually add milk while whisking until it thickens.
  3. Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  4. Mix the cheese sauce with the cooked elbow macaroni and transfer it to a greased baking dish.
  5. Top with extra cheese and bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 700kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Serve with a fresh side salad for added crunch and color.

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