Name: Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Cheesy Baked Mac Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Tenders (You can swap for chicken breasts cut into strips if preferred.); 1 cup Buttermilk (Or milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice.); 1 cup All-purpose Flour (Forms the crispy breading.); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Adds color and flavor.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Enhances the overall taste.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Essential for seasoning.); 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Introduces mild heat.); Oil for frying (Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point.); 1/2 cup Honey (The sweetening agent.); 1 tablespoon Hot Sauce (Adjust based on your heat preference.); 4 tablespoons Butter (Adds richness to the glaze.); 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni (Classic base for creamy mac and cheese.); 2 cups Milk (Key for creamy cheese sauce.); 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (Delivers rich flavor.); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Contributes creaminess to the sauce.); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Optional for a crispy topping.)

As I stirred the bubbling pot of macaroni and cheese, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. This isn’t just any comfort food—this is the kind of meal that wraps around you like a warm hug, especially when served alongside my irresistible Hot Honey Chicken Tenders. The tender chicken, perfectly crispy and glazed with sweet and spicy hot honey, contrasts beautifully with the luscious creaminess of the baked mac and cheese. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners, but it’s also a time-saver on busy nights, as both components can be prepped simultaneously. So, are you ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful taste of Southern comfort? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why Choose Hot Honey Chicken Tenders?

Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and spicy hot honey glaze adds a unique twist that elevates your classic chicken tenders.
Creamy Comfort: Paired with cheesy baked mac and cheese, the meal offers a harmonious blend of rich flavors and textures.
Family-Friendly: This recipe is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknight dinners.
Time-Saving: Prepare both dishes simultaneously, allowing you to whip up a comforting feast in no time!
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize the mac and cheese by using different cheeses or adding a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Enjoy this Southern classic that’s sure to impress! If you’re also craving a delightful twist on fried chicken, check out my Fried Chicken Sandwich for another flavor adventure!

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Ingredients

• Dive into flavor with these must-have components!

For the Chicken Tenders

Chicken Tenders – Provides the main protein; you can swap for chicken breasts cut into strips if preferred.
Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick; use milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice as a substitute.
All-purpose Flour – Forms the crispy breading; a key element for that perfect crunch.
Paprika – Adds a dash of color and flavor to the tenders.
Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall taste with savory goodness.
Salt – Essential for seasoning, bringing out all the flavors.
Black Pepper – Introduces a mild heat that complements the sweet glaze.
Oil – For frying; opt for a neutral oil with a high smoke point for best results.

For the Hot Honey Glaze

Honey – The sweetening agent that makes this glaze irresistible.
Hot Sauce – Provides that spicy kick; feel free to adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Butter – Melts to blend seamlessly with honey and hot sauce, adding richness to the glaze.

For the Baked Mac and Cheese

Elbow Macaroni – The classic base for creamy mac and cheese; alternative shapes include shells or cavatappi.
Milk – A key component for creating a delightful and creamy cheese sauce.
Cheddar Cheese – Delivers rich flavor and a classic touch; feel free to mix in other cheese blends for added depth.
Mozzarella Cheese – Contributes creaminess to the sauce.
Breadcrumbs – Optional, but they provide a crispy topping for that extra satisfying crunch.

Enjoy crafting your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese, a family favorite that combines the best of comfort food and bold flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
Begin by soaking the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This tenderizing step ensures juicy, flavorful chicken. While the tenders are marinating, set up your workspace, and prepare any other ingredients you’ll need for the recipe.

Step 2: Prepare Breading
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices. This flavorful mixture will create the crispy coating for your soon-to-be-crunchy Hot Honey Chicken Tenders.

Step 3: Coat Tenders
Remove the marinated chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each chicken tender in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. This layer will form a delightful crunch when fried, enhancing the overall experience of your chicken tenders.

Step 4: Fry Tenders
Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C) and add enough oil to cover the bottom. Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 5-7 minutes until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer finished tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make Honey Glaze
In a small bowl, combine honey, hot sauce, and melted butter. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth. This glaze will give your Hot Honey Chicken Tenders a sweet and spicy finish, adding depth to your perfectly fried chicken.

Step 6: Prepare Mac and Cheese Sauce
To create the creamy cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour to form a roux, whisking continuously for about 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk while whisking until the mixture thickens. Aim for a smooth and glossy consistency, which serves as the base for your baked mac and cheese.

Step 7: Incorporate Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. This cheesy joy will soon envelop the cooked macaroni, making it irresistibly creamy as you prepare to bake.

Step 8: Bake Mac and Cheese
Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked elbow macaroni in a greased baking dish, ensuring each piece is coated. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunchy layer. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the mac and cheese is golden and bubbling, giving you that perfect finish.

Storage Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Fridge: Store any leftover hot honey chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be kept for about 2 months.

Reheating: To ensure crispy chicken tenders, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help retain their delicious crunch.

Mac and Cheese Storage: Baked mac and cheese can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months; reheat it in the oven until hot and bubbly.

Expert Tips for Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

Crispiness Key: Ensure oil is properly heated to 350°F (175°C) before frying for maximum crunch. A thermometer can help avoid soggy tenders.

Perfect Marinade: Allow chicken tenders to marinate for at least 30 minutes in buttermilk to ensure they’re juicy and flavorful. Don’t skip this step!

Adjusting Spice: Start with a little hot sauce in the glaze, then taste and adjust to your preference. Customize the heat for the best hot honey chicken tenders!

Reheating Method: For crispy leftovers, reheat the chicken tenders in the oven instead of the microwave. This helps maintain their delightful crunch.

Cheesy Dream: Mix different types of cheese into your mac and cheese for varied flavors. Consider using gouda or pepper jack for an extra kick!

Breadcrumb Texture: To add texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the mac and cheese before baking. This will create a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy dish perfectly.

Make Ahead Options

These Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance to ensure they stay juicy. Additionally, prepare the macaroni and cheese sauce ahead of time, refrigerating it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply mix the cheese sauce with cooked elbow macaroni, transfer to a baking dish, and bake as directed. For the tenders, fry them fresh for that crispy texture, then brush with the hot honey glaze just before serving to enjoy that sweet and spicy finish. This strategy means you can have delicious, homemade food on the table in no time!

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders Variations

Feel free to think outside the box and make this dish truly yours, tantalizing your taste buds in the process!

Spicy Kick: Add extra chili flakes to your hot honey glaze for an exciting boost of heat. The spiciness balances beautifully with the sweetness, making every bite a flavorful adventure.
Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with coconut milk and use a vegan butter alternative for the glaze to make this completely dairy-free. You won’t miss out on taste, as the coconut adds a unique twist!
Cheesy Twists: Mix in different cheese varieties like pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile in your mac and cheese. This twist makes it so exciting, you might forget it’s a classic!
Crunchy Top: Incorporate panko breadcrumbs on the macaroni before baking for an extra layer of crunch. Toasting the breadcrumbs first gives them an even richer texture, creating depth in your dish!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for herby notes that complement the sweet and spicy flavors beautifully. It’s an unexpected twist that brings freshness to this comforting meal.
Hot Orange Variation: Try replacing the hot sauce with a zesty orange chili sauce for a fruity kick in your glaze. This fusion is delightful with the warmth of the honey and the savory chicken!
Veggie Boost: Stir in steamed spinach or broccoli into your mac and cheese for added nutrition and a pop of color. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal, but it also adds a lovely green crunch!
Flavor Infusion: Marinate the chicken in a blend of lime juice and chili powder for a tangy twist, replacing the buttermilk. This infusion adds a refreshing zing that pairs perfectly with the hot honey glaze.

As you explore these variations, don’t forget to also check out my delicious Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples for a sweet ending to your Southern feast!

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

A delightful meal deserves equally charming companions to complete the experience.

Crispy Coleslaw: This crunchy and tangy side offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy textures of the mac and cheese. The crisp veggies balance the hearty flavors perfectly.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks provide a satisfying chew alongside the tender chicken, making every bite of your meal even more enjoyable.
Sweet Potato Fries: These deliciously crispy fries bring a sweet and earthy flavor to your plate, harmonizing beautifully with the spicy-sweet glaze on your chicken.
Grilled Vegetables: Colorful and flavorful, grilled veggies such as zucchini and bell peppers add vibrancy and freshness to your meal, enhancing its overall appeal.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet, these little bites introduce a classic Southern element that complements the comfort of both the chicken and mac and cheese.
Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of sweetened iced tea serves as the perfect drink to wash down the hearty meal, with its cool sweetness balancing the heat of the hot honey glaze.

These pairings not only elevate your dining experience but also reflect the warm and inviting essence of Southern comfort food. Enjoy!

Hot Honey Chicken Tenders with Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken tenders?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken tenders, look for ones that are plump, pale pink, and free from any dark spots or signs of spoilage. If you’re opting for chicken breasts, make sure they’re fresh and cut into uniform strips to ensure even cooking.

What’s the best way to store leftover chicken tenders?
Store any leftover hot honey chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to help retain moisture. This way, you can enjoy them later without sacrificing too much of their original flavor.

Can I freeze the chicken tenders?
Yes! To freeze the chicken tenders, first let them cool completely. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and label with the date. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to retain their crunch.

How do I store baked macaroni and cheese?
Store baked mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe dish; it can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly.

What should I do if my chicken tenders turn out soggy?
Very! If your tenders come out soggy, it might be because the oil wasn’t hot enough, or they were overcrowded in the frying pan. Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) before adding the chicken. You can also try frying in batches for the best results. If they’re already cooked, you can crisp them up in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for this recipe?
For sure! If you or your loved ones have dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for the chicken tenders. For dairy-free options, you can substitute the milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting dish. Adjust the hot sauce in the glaze to accommodate any spice sensitivities as well.