Looking for a comforting meal that the whole family will love? This recipe for Homemade Chicken Tenders & Mac & Cheese is the answer! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need easy dinner recipes for family, it combines crunchy, golden chicken tenders with creamy, cheesy pasta. Everyone will be gathered around the dinner table in no time!
Imagine biting into perfectly crispy chicken tenders paired with a velvety mac and cheese that feels like a warm hug. This combo is not just a meal; it’s a family favorite that brings smiles and satisfaction. Plus, it’s a fun and approachable recipe that you can whip up together with the kids. Let’s dive into this delicious duo!
Delicious Homemade Chicken Tenders & Mac & Cheese
These homemade chicken tenders are tender and juicy on the inside, and perfectly crispy on the outside. Paired with a rich and creamy mac and cheese, this meal is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, soak the chicken strips in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to tenderize.
- Prep the Breading: In a shallow dish, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another dish, place the breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Chicken: Remove chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture, then coat in breadcrumbs.
- Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the chicken tenders for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
- Cook the Macaroni: Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve: Plate the crispy chicken tenders alongside a generous scoop of mac and cheese. Enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 600kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
